The Essential Parent's Guide to the 2026 IB Exams
As your child enters the final phase of their IB Diploma, the exam period can feel like a maze of dates, rules, and requirements. This guide is designed for you, the parents, to help demystify the 2026 IB examinations. We'll cover the official schedules, the strict rules of the exam hall, and exactly what your child needs to pack to ensure their exam days are as smooth and stress-free as possible.
With this guide, you can help your child:
- Stay organized with a clear overview of the 2026 exam windows and key dates.
- Understand the new changes, including the introduction of digital exams.
- Avoid common pitfalls by knowing the strict rules on prohibited items and timings.
- Prepare a perfect exam day kit with our comprehensive equipment checklist.
Part 1: The 2026 IB Exam Schedule
The IB runs two major exam sessions per year. It's crucial to know which session your child's school participates in and to get the specific, detailed timetable from their IB Coordinator, as start times vary by subject and time zone.
May 2026 Session
Primarily for students in the Northern Hemisphere.
- Exam Window: Friday, April 24, 2026 – Wednesday, May 20, 2026
- Results Released: July 6, 2026
November 2026 Session
Primarily for students in the Southern Hemisphere.
- Exam Window: Friday, October 23, 2026 – Friday, November 13, 2026
- Results Released: Early January 2027 (Date TBC)
Heads Up: The Introduction of Digital Exams
Starting in May 2026, the IB is piloting digital (computer-based) exams for certain subjects. Here's what you need to know:
- It's a gradual rollout. Only select schools and subjects are part of the initial phase.
- Content is identical. The digital exams will have the same questions, structure, and grading standards as the paper versions to ensure fairness.
- Your school will inform you. If your child is at a "pioneer school", they will receive detailed information about whether they will take exams on paper or digitally.
Part 2: The Rules of the Exam Room
The IB has a zero-tolerance policy for rule violations to protect the integrity of the exams. A simple mistake, like forgetting a phone is in a pocket, can have serious consequences. Go over this checklist with your child before their first exam.
| Rule Category | What You Need to Know |
| Arrival Time | Students must be on time. Late entry is only permitted within the first 60 minutes, and no extra time is given. After one hour, entry is forbidden. |
| Prohibited Items | Phones, smartwatches, smart glasses, headphones, notes, books, and bags are strictly forbidden in the exam room. Leave them in a locker or at home. |
| Drinks & Food | Only plain water in a clear, transparent bottle is allowed. All other food and drinks are prohibited. |
| Bathroom Breaks | These are generally not permitted. Students should plan ahead, especially for exams lasting 2+ hours. |
| Academic Integrity | Any form of cheating or sharing information will result in disqualification. The IB has enhanced anti-cheating measures in place. |
Part 3: The Ultimate Exam Day Equipment Checklist
Being well-prepared eliminates last-minute panic. Help your child pack their (transparent) pencil case the night before each exam using this checklist.
The "Must-Have" Items for Every Exam
- Pens: At least two working pens with black or blue ink. Avoid water-based pens as they may not scan well.
- Pencils: Several sharpened 2B or HB pencils for diagrams and multiple-choice sheets.
- A Good Eraser: A clean eraser for making neat corrections.
- Ruler & Geometry Tools: A straightedge ruler is always useful. Pack a protractor or compass if needed for the specific subject.
- Clear Pencil Case: A transparent pouch or Ziploc bag is required so invigilators can see the contents.
- Student ID: Non-negotiable. They may not be allowed to enter without it.
- Water Bottle: A clear, transparent bottle with any labels removed.
Calculators: A Special Case
For subjects like Maths and Sciences, a calculator is essential. For others, it's prohibited.
- Check the Subject Requirements: Does this specific paper allow a calculator?
- Ensure it's an IB-Approved Model: Your child's teacher can confirm this.
- Clear the Memory: The calculator's memory must be cleared, or it must be put into "Exam Mode" before entering the room. Invigilators will check this.
- Check the Batteries: Make sure it's fully charged or has fresh batteries. Packing a spare is a great idea.
The Lanterna Tip: Cross out any mistakes neatly with a single line. The use of correction fluid or tape (like White-Out) is strictly forbidden and can cause issues with the scanning of exam papers.
Part 4: A Quick Refresher on Passing the Diploma
Ultimately, these exams are the final step towards earning the IB Diploma. Here are the core conditions a student must meet:
- Achieve a minimum total score of 24 points.
- Successfully complete all CAS (Creativity, Activity, Service) requirements.
- Receive a grade of D or higher on both the Theory of Knowledge (TOK) and the Extended Essay (EE). An E in either is an automatic failing condition.
- Score at least 12 points across their three Higher Level (HL) subjects.
- Score at least 9 points across their three Standard Level (SL) subjects.
- Avoid receiving more than three grades of 3 or below.
By staying informed about these logistics, you can provide the stable, supportive foundation your child needs to walk into their exams with confidence. Good luck!
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