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 organised with a clear overview of the 2026 exam windows and key dates.
- Understand new changes, including the gradual 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 exactly 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 within each time zone (for example: Europe is Zone B, but there may be different timings for sub-zones B1, B2, B3 etc.).
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. Language A and B subjects are first in line. The IB aims for all exams to be digital from 2030.
- 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. Ask your child's IB Coordinator if you want to know more.
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 (with no labels) is allowed. All other food and drinks are prohibited. |
| Bathroom Breaks | These are only permitted at the discretion of the school. 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 and label-free) 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 graphs, 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. Not all invigilators or exam administrators know the students. Students 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 or IB Coordinator 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 but arrive an extra 10 minutes early to allow time for this when a paper requires it (Mathematics, for example).
- Check the Batteries: Make sure it's fully charged or has fresh batteries. Packing a spare is a great idea.
A Note on Dress: Be Flexible
Depending on your school's uniform or dress code, there might not be much choice. However, it is best to wear simple layers as opposed to your favourite big warm hoodie. Exam rooms can be large venues and hard to heat up/cool down, so your ability to adjust may be valuable. As with other items, avoid excessive text that the invigilators may need to check. The last thing you need when you are about to start an exam is this kind of attention!
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!
