2026 IB Exam May Calendar
April 24 - May 20, 2026 • Click on any day to see exam details!
📅 Week 1: April 24 - May 1, 2026
No Exams
School-based syllabus • Language & culture
School-based syllabus • Language & culture
Language A Literature (except English, French & Spanish)
Language A Literature paper 2
Physics • Sports, Exercise & Health Science
Physics • Sports Science paper 2
Business Management
Business Management paper 2
Computer Science • Environmental Systems
No Exams
No Exams
📅 Week 2: May 4-8, 2026
Computer Science • Environmental Systems
History HL/SL papers
History HL paper 3
Language B • Latin
Language B • Latin paper 2
Psychology HL/SL
Psychology papers
English A Literature & Language
English paper 2 (listening)
Geography • Philosophy • Social & Cultural Anthropology
📅 Week 3: May 11-15, 2026
Geography • Philosophy • Social & Cultural Anthropology
Biology HL/SL paper 1
Biology HL/SL paper 2
Economics • World Religions
Economics • World Religions papers
Classical Greek • Spanish A Literature & Language
Classical Greek • Spanish papers
Mathematics: Analysis & Approaches, Applications & Interpretation
Mathematics paper 2
Chemistry • Design Technology
📅 Week 4: May 18-20, 2026
Chemistry • Design Technology paper 3
Digital Society • Global Politics
Digital Society • Global Politics papers
French A Literature & Language
French paper 2 (listening)
Mathematics paper 3 (HL only)
📝 Important Notes & Guidelines
English, French & Spanish scheduled separately
Different from November session
No exams scheduled on International Workers' Day
Recognized globally by IB
April 23 - May 19, 2027
(No exams May 1st, subject to confirmation)
Estimate Outcomes with IB Predicted Grades
As you build your study schedule, estimate outcomes with IB predicted grades to track progress against your target.
IB May 2026 Exam Schedule
For subject-by-subject timings and papers, see the full IB May 2026 exam schedule.
❓ More Essential IB Exam Questions
🤒 What happens if I miss an IB exam due to illness?
If you're ill during an exam, you must obtain medical certification and inform your IB coordinator immediately. You may be eligible for the May retake session if you miss November exams, or November retake if you miss May exams. No additional fees apply for illness-related absences with proper documentation.
🎤 How do I prepare for IB oral examinations?
IB oral exams are conducted during the course (not exam sessions) and are recorded for moderation. Practice speaking regularly, prepare structured notes (not scripts), and familiarize yourself with the assessment criteria. Language orals focus on communication, while other subjects emphasize content knowledge and analytical skills.
⚠️ What are the consequences of academic dishonesty in IB exams?
Academic dishonesty (plagiarism, collusion, cheating) results in automatic failure of the affected component or entire subject. Serious cases can lead to exclusion from future IB sessions for up to 5 years. Always cite sources properly and ensure all work is your own original effort.
📊 How are IB exam papers marked and moderated?
IB papers are marked by trained external examiners worldwide using detailed mark schemes. Papers undergo multiple quality checks and statistical moderation to ensure fairness across all candidates. Internal assessments are marked by teachers and then moderated by IB to maintain global standards.
📝 What is the Extended Essay and how does it factor into my diploma?
The Extended Essay (EE) is a 4,000-word independent research project that contributes to your diploma score through the Core Points matrix (combined with TOK). You can achieve 0-3 additional points. The EE is submitted during your final year and externally assessed by IB examiners.
📚 Can I use a dictionary during language exams?
Dictionaries are not permitted in Language A (mother tongue) exams but may be allowed in Language B and ab initio exams, depending on the specific paper. Check with your coordinator for your exam's specific regulations. Electronic dictionaries are never permitted.
🤔 What is the Theory of Knowledge (TOK) assessment?
TOK has two components: a 1,600-word essay and an oral presentation. Both are internally assessed and externally moderated. TOK combines with your Extended Essay grade to contribute 0-3 core points to your diploma. Both components must be passed to receive your diploma.
🎨 How do Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) requirements work?
CAS requires 150 hours of activities across creativity, activity, and service, plus completion of a CAS project. It's assessed on a pass/fail basis and must be completed to receive your diploma. CAS is not externally examined but internally verified by your CAS coordinator.
❌ What happens if I fail an IB exam - can I still get my diploma?
To earn your diploma, you need a minimum of 24 points total with no grade below 2 in any subject. You can have maximum two grade 3s and must pass TOK, EE, and CAS. If you fail to meet these requirements, you'll receive individual subject certificates instead of the full diploma.
🏆 How do universities view IB scores compared to other qualifications?
Universities highly value IB diplomas for their rigorous academic preparation and holistic education approach. Many universities offer advanced standing or credit for high IB scores. A score of 38+ is typically competitive for top universities, with some requiring specific subject grades for certain programs.
📚 Still Have Questions?
For comprehensive information about IB assessments, regulations, and procedures, visit the IB Programme Resource Centre or consult your school's IB coordinator.