How CAS Works Across 18 Months (DP IB Creativity, Activity, Service): Revision Note

The CAS programme formally begins at the start of the Diploma Programme (DP)

It must continue regularly for at least 18 months

CAS must span the entire duration of the Diploma rather than being compressed or rushed into short periods

Students cannot "complete early" in the first year; engagement must continue into DP2—the second year of the programme

There are no minimum hours required to complete CAS

Instead of a "tick-box" hour-counting approach, students must show consistent and regular engagement across the full 18 months

Engagement should ideally occur on a weekly basis to ensure a reasonable balance between the three strands

Progress is monitored through three formal interviews—documented dialogues between the student and a CAS coordinator or adviser. There must be a minimum of three interviews, normally at least two in DP1 and one in DP2

• The first interview occurs at the beginning of the programme to establish goals

• The second interview is held normally towards the end of the first year

• The third interview is a summative discussion at the end of the programme to confirm all requirements are met

The official sign-off for completion usually happens in the final semester of the second year

Students should create a plan that includes a mix of short-term and long-term CAS experiences—specific events or series of events where you engage with the strands

• A series of planned experiences is recommended over singular, unplanned events to ensure the programme is more engaging

• Sustained experiences include continuous or ongoing actions that take place regularly over time

• They allow students to demonstrate perseverance and commitment

Students should check in regularly with their plan and their CAS portfolio—the collection of evidence and reflections—to track their progress

Involvement in familiar interests or passions helps students stay motivated and makes CAS feel less like an additional burden

Making small weekly commitments is more effective for maintaining momentum than trying to perform large, last-minute actions

Reflection—the process of thoughtfully considering your ideas and experiences—is the key to sustaining CAS meaningfully

• Reflecting throughout the process, rather than just participating in activities, helps students understand their own growth and stay engaged with their goals

• Purposeful reflection focuses on quality rather than quantity; identifying key moments that inspire a student is better than reflecting on every single event

• Group reflection with peers can also help maintain interest by providing shared insights and social support