How Long Are IB English Exams?

If you're planning to take IB English or you're already studying it, one of the questions you'll probably ask is: "How long are IB English exams?" The answer depends on which course you're taking and whether you're doing Standard Level (SL) or Higher Level (HL). 

Here’s an overview of the IB English courses and their assessments. You’ll also find a breakdown of those crucial exam timings. 

Key Takeaways

• IB English exams vary by course and level: Literature and Language & Literature have different exam structures and timings

• SL students spend less time in exams than HL students: SL exams are shorter + HL includes an additional essay component

• All students complete an Individual Oral: This 15-minute assessment (10 minutes speaking + 5 minutes questions) counts for 20% (HL) or 30% (SL) of your final grade

• Knowing the timings helps you revise smarter: Understanding how long each exam lasts means you can practise under realistic conditions

IB English Course Options Explained

Before we dive into exam lengths, let's overview the different IB English Language and literature courses (opens in a new tab). 

IB English Literature focuses exclusively on literary texts like novels, plays, poetry, and prose. You'll analyse themes, literary devices, and authorial choices across different works.

IB English Language & Literature combines literary texts with non-literary texts (like advertisements, articles, speeches, and media). You'll examine how language shapes meaning and how different text types communicate ideas.

Both courses have SL and HL options, and both include written exams (Paper 1 and Paper 2) plus an Individual Oral. HL students in both courses also complete an HL Essay.

For more detail, explore our topics lists for IB English Language and Literature and IB English Literature. We also have a topics list for IB Literature and Performance. 

IB English Literature Exam Lengths

Standard Level (SL)

Higher Level (HL)

IB English Language & Literature Exam Lengths

Standard Level (SL)

Higher Level (HL)

Exam Timing Tips

For Paper 1 (All Courses):

• Read actively: Spend the first 5 minutes reading the text(s) carefully

• Plan your response: Take 5 minutes to outline your overall answer

• Balance your time: If you're HL and analysing two texts, don't spend too long on the first one—set a timer or divide your paragraphs equally between the two

• Leave time to review: Save 5 minutes at the end to check for errors and strengthen your intro or conclusion

For Paper 2 (All Courses):

• Choose your question wisely: Spend a minute or two reading the question choices and selecting the one that you understand best

• Create a clear outline: Plan your comparative structure (point-by-point or text-by-text) before writing

  • I highly recommend you draw a quick table or Venn diagram

• Aim for balance: Make sure you discuss both works equally throughout your essay

• Watch the clock: Check your time to stay on track

  • You could also decide how many paragraphs you’ll write instead of watching a clock as you write

  • Practise before the exam so you know how many paragraphs you can write in the time limit

For Individual Oral (All Courses):

• Rehearse out loud: Time yourself multiple times before the actual assessment

• Don't memorise word-for-word: Use your 10 bullet points as prompts, but speak naturally

• Balance is crucial: Divide your 10 minutes equally between your two texts/works

• Stay within time: Going significantly over or under 10 minutes can affect your marks 

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the HL Essay in IB English?

The HL Essay isn't a timed exam. It's completed throughout the year under your teacher's guidance. Before you submit a final essay of 1,200-1,500 words, you’ll spend several weeks researching, drafting, and refining. Your teacher will offer feedback along the way.

Are IB English orals timed?

Yes! The Individual Oral is strictly timed at 15 minutes total. You speak for 10 minutes presenting your analysis, followed by 5 minutes of teacher questions. The limit keeps your talk focused, and rewards you for organisation. 

Does SL have fewer exam hours than HL?

Absolutely. SL students have 3 hours of written exams. HL students complete just over 4 hours of written exams. HL students also complete an additional HL Essay throughout the year.

Final Thoughts

Now that you know the timings for each paper and assessment, you can create a realistic revision schedule and practise under timed conditions. Ask your teacher for some exam papers to practise with. And, if you need help with exam revision, read our guides on How to Revise for IB English Literature and How to Revise for IB English Language and Literature. 

Knowing exactly how long your IB English exams are is the first step towards good preparation. Well done! You’ve just done that. 

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References: 

Diploma sample exam papers - International Baccalaureate® (opens in a new tab)

Language and literature courses - International Baccalaureate® (opens in a new tab)

International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme Subject Brief - Literature (opens in a new tab)

International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme Subject Brief - Language and Literature (opens in a new tab)