How Many IB Geography Papers Are There?

• Are you thinking of IB Geography? One of the first questions you’ll have is: ‘How many exam papers will I sit?’

• The quick answer: IB Geography students sit different numbers of exam papers depending on their level.

• This guide breaks it all down so you know exactly what to expect, because understanding the structure early will help you revise effectively and make the most of your internal assessment (IA).

• If you’re still deciding whether to take the subject, you might also want to check out our guides on What is IB Geography? or Is IB Geography Hard?

Key Takeaways

• SL (Standard Level): 2 written papers + IA

• HL (Higher Level): 3 written papers + IA

• All students complete an Internal Assessment (IA) — a fieldwork investigation of 2,500 words.

• Exam paper lengths range from 1 hour to 1 hour 30 minutes, depending on the paper.

IB Geography Standard Level (SL) Assessment Overview

• Paper 1: Geographic Themes

  • You answer questions on the optional themes your school has chosen (e.g. Freshwater, Oceans, Hazards, Leisure/Tourism).

  • Duration: 1 hour, 30 minutes. Weighting: 35% of the SL grade.

• Paper 2: Core

  • Topics include population, climate vulnerability, and global resource consumption.

  • Duration: 1 hour, 15 minutes. Weighting: 40% of the SL grade.

• Internal Assessment (IA)

  • A 2,500-word fieldwork investigation based on data you’ve collected.

  • Worth 25% of the SL grade.

Total: 2 exam papers + IA.

Revision tips: Focus on case studies for the optional themes and practice interpreting stimulus material in Paper 2 (graphs, maps, photos).

IB Geography Higher Level (HL) Assessment Overview

• Paper 1: Geographic Themes

  • The paper follows the same structure as the SL, but HL students explore additional optional themes.

  • Duration: 2 hours, 15 minutes. Weighting: 35% of the HL grade.

• Paper 2: Core

  • Similar to SL, this paper tests global population dynamics, climate, and resource use.

  • Duration: 1 hour, 15 minutes. Weight: 25% of the HL grade.

• Paper 3: HL Extension (Global Interactions)

  • This paper is exclusive to HL students. It focuses on advanced globalisation themes: trade; flows of capital and labour; cultural diffusion; and environmental change.

  • Duration: 1 hour; weighting: 20% of the HL grade.

• Internal Assessment (IA)

  • The Internal Assessment (IA) is identical to the SL, which is a 2,500-word investigation based on fieldwork.

  • Worth 20% of the HL grade.

Total: 3 exam papers + IA.

Revision tips: HL students must not neglect Paper 3—it’s often essay-heavy and It rewards students who are able to connect concepts such as globalisation, the environment, and geopolitics.

IB Geography Internal Assessment (IA)

The IA is the same for both SL and HL students. You’ll design and carry out a fieldwork investigation, analyse your data, and write up your findings in about 2,500 words.

• Weighting: 25% at SL, 20% at HL.

• Focus: Geographical inquiry — methodology, data analysis, evaluation, and conclusion.

• Tips: Choose a question you genuinely care about. It makes writing (and redrafting) far easier. Keep data presentation clear — strong maps, graphs, and statistical tests will impress examiners.

IB Geography Exam Paper Comparison Table

Which Pathway Suits Which Student?

• Standard Level (SL)

  • This pathway is ideal for students who aim to combine Geography with other subjects.

  • There are fewer written papers in this course, but it remains rigorous, particularly due to the Internal Assessment (IA).

• Higher Level (HL)

  • This pathway is ideal for students who enjoy big-picture global themes and essay-based assessment.

  • Expect an extra paper (Paper 3) and a heavier overall workload.

How to Prepare for Extended Writing

All IB Geography exam papers have extended answer questions, so preparation needs to focus on both content and exam technique. Here are some practical ways to become ready:

• Master essay writing

  • Practice planning introductions, structuring arguments, and writing conclusions that demonstrate clear judgement.

  • Aim to balance knowledge with analysis and evaluation.

• Revise thematically

  • Use mind maps or tables to link concepts and processes across topics.

  • This makes it easier to compare and contrast ideas in your essays.

• Practise past papers

  • Time yourself to build confidence with essay length and pacing.

  • Understand the command words so you know what is being asked of you. 'Explain' and 'describe' are similar, but explain needs more detail. 

• Balance your revision

  • Don't just focus on your favourite areas. 

  • Create a timetable that spreads revision across all strands.

• Use active recall

  • Flashcards, practice essays, and self-testing are far more effective than just rereading notes.

For more detailed strategies, see our guide on ‘How to revise for IB Geography’ and our step-by-step advice on ‘How to get a 7 in IB Geography’. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the difference between SL and HL in IB Geography?

• SL students sit two exam papers plus the IA. HL students sit three exam papers plus the IA. The extra HL paper focuses on global interactions.

 How long are the IB Geography exams?

• Paper 1 is 1 hr 30 mins, Paper 2 is 1 hr 15 mins, and Paper 3 (HL only) is 1 hr. The IA is written coursework, not timed.

 Is the IA the same for HL and SL students?

• Yes. Both SL and HL students complete the same IA task, though its weighting in the final grade differs (25% for SL, 20% for HL).

Final Thoughts

So, how many IB Geography papers are there?

• Standard Level (SL): 2 papers + IA

• Higher Level (HL): 3 papers + IA

In both cases, the IA is essential. Success in IB Geography comes from understanding the paper structure, practicing past papers under timed conditions, and approaching the IA with the same seriousness as an exam.

If you’d like extra support along the way, explore the full range of Save My Exams’ IB Geography  resources. They’ll give you the tools and confidence to head into exam season ready to succeed.

References:

IB Geography Programme (opens in a new tab)
Standard level (SL) and/or higher level (HL) subject brief (opens in a new tab)