The Ultimate Guide to IB Retakes
Getting your IB results and not seeing the score you hoped for can be tough. But it’s not the end of the road. An IB retake isn’t a sign of failure; it’s a strategic second chance to get the grade you deserve. This guide breaks down everything you need to know, from deadlines and costs to how universities *really* see retakes.
Here’s what we’ll cover:
- The essential rules of retaking (including the "no-risk" policy).
- Key dates, deadlines, and a breakdown of the costs involved.
- How to create a winning strategy for your second attempt.
- How universities view improved scores and what it means for your application.
Part 1: The Lowdown on IB Retakes – What You Need to Know
Let's clear up the basics. Retaking an IB exam is a straightforward process designed to help you, not penalize you. Here are the core principles:
- What can you retake? Pretty much anything. You can choose to redo one subject, several subjects, or all six. You can also resubmit core components like the Extended Essay (EE) and Theory of Knowledge (TOK).
- The "No-Risk" Rule: This is the most important part. The IBO will always take your highest grade. If you score lower on a retake, your original, higher score still stands. There is literally no risk of lowering your overall diploma score.
- Unlimited Attempts: The old "three-session limit" is gone. You can now retake exams as many times as you need to achieve your goal.
- Open to All: Any IB student is eligible to retake subjects. You don't need a special reason. This applies whether you're a full Diploma candidate or a Course candidate.
The Lanterna Tip: You can even change levels of your subjects! With your school's approval, you could retake a subject at Standard Level (SL) that you originally took at Higher Level (HL), which can be a smart strategy if you just need to secure the diploma.
Part 2: The Logistics – Deadlines, Costs, and Registration
Okay, so you're thinking about it. Now for the practical stuff. How, when, and how much?
Key Dates and Sessions
The IB runs two exam sessions a year: one in May (results in July) and one in November (results in December). You can register for the next available session after your first attempt, or choose a later one if you need more time to prepare.
Watch out for syllabus changes! This is crucial. Curriculums get updated. For example, students needing to retake Biology, Chemistry, or Physics were advised to do so in November 2024, because the syllabus changed for the May 2025 exams. Always check with an IB Coordinator!
Registration Process
You must register through an IB World School. This can be your original school, but they aren't obligated to accept you. If you need an alternative, Lanterna can register you as a candidate at our partner school in the UK.
A Guide to Retake Costs
Costs can vary depending on your school and location, but here’s a general breakdown to help you budget:
| Fee Type | Estimated Cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|
| Registration Fee | $120 - $200 | A one-time fee per exam session. Can be higher for late registration. |
| Per Subject Fee | $100 - $250 | This is the fee for each subject exam you decide to retake. |
| Core Component Fees | ~$85 for EE / ~$45 for TOK | Specific fees apply if you are resubmitting your EE or TOK essay. |
| School Admin Fee | Varies | Your school may charge an extra fee for invigilation, coordination, and shipping. Ask your IB Coordinator for the exact total. |
Part 3: The University Perspective
This is the big question for many students: "Will universities look down on me if I retake?" The short answer is: overwhelmingly, no.
Most universities, especially in the UK, US, and Canada, are very accepting of retake results. They understand the rigour of the IB. Here’s how they see it:
- A Sign of Commitment: Improving your score shows resilience, determination, and a commitment to your education—all the qualities that universities value.
- Meeting Conditional Offers: If you missed a conditional offer by a point or two, a successful retake is the most direct way to secure your spot.
- Context is Key: Universities assess your whole profile. A retake is just one part of it. If you have a good reason (illness, tough personal circumstances, etc.), it's even more understandable.
- Top-Tier Universities: For extremely competitive universities like Oxbridge, it's a bit more nuanced. They may prefer grades achieved in a single sitting, but a retake isn't an automatic disqualifier. It's best to check their specific admissions policy directly.
Part 4: Your 4-Step Retake Game Plan
A retake isn't just about studying more; it's about studying smarter. Use this framework to build a successful preparation strategy.
Step 1: Diagnose the Problem
Before you dive back into textbooks, figure out what went wrong. Was it a specific topic? Exam technique? Time management? Go through the syllabus for each subject and colour-code topics: green (confident), yellow (unsure), and red (don't understand). This is your roadmap.
Step 2: Build a Realistic Plan
Your "red" topics are your priority. Build a revision timetable that tackles these first, as they often form the foundation for other concepts. Be specific and block out time for topics, practice questions, and past papers. Don't just write "Study Chemistry." Write "Review Stoichiometry for 1 hour, then do 3 practice questions."
Step 3: Focus on Exam Technique
You might know the content perfectly but still lose marks. Why? Poor exam technique. For essay subjects, practice structuring your arguments. For sciences, make sure you understand the command terms. Do timed past papers to simulate the real thing and master your pacing.
Step 4: Get Expert Support
You don't have to do this alone. Working with an expert tutor who knows the IB inside-out can be a game-changer. They can quickly identify your weak spots, teach you proven strategies, and keep you accountable.
How Lanterna Can Be Your Retake Partner
At Lanterna, we specialize in helping students turn a disappointing result into a success story. Our tutors are experienced IB teachers, examiners, and top alumni who know exactly what it takes to boost your score.
- 1-to-1 Tuition Programme: Get personalised support tailored precisely to your needs, focusing on your specific weak spots and goals.
- IB Retakes Accelerated Programme: An intensive 8-week online course designed to cover all key content and exam strategies efficiently.
- Exam Centre Registration: If you can't register at your old school, we can register you as a private candidate at our partner exam centre in London.
- Free Consultation: Book a free call with one of our academic advisors to discuss your results, your goals, and create a personalised plan for your retake success.
