IB Exam Dates 2026

When do 2026 IB exams start?

IB exams 2026 start in April and finish by the end of May.

These represent the most recent examination schedules set by each IB examination board. However, it is crucial to bear in mind that these dates could potentially be altered by exam boards. Therefore, students are advised to use these dates merely as a rough guide.

Key Takeaways

• Exam Timing – The 2026 IB exams will run from April to the end of May, but exact dates may change, so students should treat them as a guide.

• Difficulty Level – The IB Diploma is widely seen as more intense than GCSEs and A levels because it covers more subjects, requires essays and coursework, and pushes students to think critically.

• University Acceptance – Both UK and US universities value the IB, with UK research showing IB students are often more likely to be accepted into top universities.

When are the IB SL Maths exams in 2026?

IB SL Maths Exams 2026

When are the IB HL Maths exams in 2026?

IB HL Maths Exams 2026

When are the IB Physics exams in 2026?

IB Physics exam dates 2026

When are the IB Business Management exams in 2026?

IB Business Management Exams 2026

When are the IB ESS exams in 2026?

IB ESS exam dates 2026

When are the IB Geography exams in 2026?

IB Geography Exams 2026

When are the IB Psychology exams in 2026?

IB Psychology Exam Dates 2026

When are the IB Biology exams in 2026?

IB Biology Exam Dates 2026

When are the IB Economics exams in 2026?

IB Economics Exam Dates 2026

IB Exam FAQs

What year do you take IB exams?

Students typically take their IB exams during their final year of high school, which is often referred to as Year 12, 12th grade, or Year 13 (UK), depending on the educational system. The exams are usually administered in May.

Is IB harder than GCSE?

A student studies fewer subjects when taking the IB Diploma Programme as compared with GCSE. However, the IB Diploma is considered to be significantly harder than GCSE as it is academically more rigorous and comprehensive. The IB Diploma Programme offers a broader and more challenging curriculum designed to promote critical thinking, research skills, and international-mindedness. There are also several challenging components, such as the extended essay, coursework in every subject, and the requirement for all students to engage in service-related activities.

Does Harvard prefer IB or A levels?

Harvard University, like many other prestigious universities, states that they do not explicitly prefer one curriculum over the other. They evaluate applicants based on various factors, including academic performance, extracurricular activities, essays, and recommendations. 

How many people fail IB?

The global pass rate for the IB Diploma Programme is usually around 80% (opens in a new tab). It's essential to note that the IB Diploma Programme emphasises holistic education and provides various pathways for students to achieve success, even if they may not meet the requirements for the full diploma.

Do UK universities prefer IB or A levels?

UK universities generally accept both the IB Diploma Programme and A levels for admission. However, according to the UK Independent Schools' Directory (opens in a new tab), IBDP students are significantly more likely to be accepted to Russell Group universities.

Is IB harder than A levels?

Both qualifications are rigorous and respected internationally. The IB Diploma Programme is generally considered to be harder due to the number of subjects studied and the amount of project work required for each subject. IBDP students take six subjects (three at Higher Level and three at Standard Level), whereas A-level students usually take three. IBDP students undertake studies in language and literature; language acquisition; individuals and societies; sciences; mathematics; and the arts. They have to take at least one Maths, one Science, and one language. This approach offers a broader and more holistic curriculum. A levels allow students to specialize in specific subjects. Some students may find the IB Diploma Programme more challenging due to its breadth and the requirement to complete a range of assessments, including coursework, exams, and the extended essay. However, others may thrive in the IB's interdisciplinary approach and emphasis on critical thinking and research skills.

More exam resources:

• Memory Techniques For More Effective Revision

• Learning Styles

• IB Maths SL Practice Papers (IB Symposium)

References

IB Global Pass Rate - TES (opens in a new tab)

IBDP Research (opens in a new tab)