Graduates
- Scored 40+ in the IB and 7s in the subjects they teach.
IB Diploma Timeline
Master the IB Diploma's two-year journey with our complete timeline. Get key deadlines and guidance for the Extended Essay, TOK, IAs, and CAS from DP1 through final exams.
The IB Diploma Timeline: Your Two-Year Roadmap
Hey there! Welcome to the IB Diploma Programme. Think of the next two years as a marathon, not a sprint. It’s a challenging journey, but an incredibly rewarding one. The key to finishing strong isn't just about working hard; it's about working smart and knowing what’s coming around the corner.
This timeline is your GPS for the entire IB journey. Use it to see the major milestones, plan ahead, and mentally prepare for the road ahead. Knowing that DP2 gets intense with deadlines means you'll understand why it's so important to get your EE research question nailed down in DP1!
By using this roadmap, you'll be able to:
- Visualize your entire IB journey from start to finish.
- Anticipate key pressure points and deadlines before they sneak up on you.
- Pace yourself by understanding when to focus on coursework vs. exam prep.
- Reduce stress by knowing what to expect and when.
DP1: Laying the Foundation
Your first year is all about building a solid base. You'll dive deep into your chosen subjects and get to grips with the three core components that make the IB unique: the Extended Essay (EE), Theory of Knowledge (TOK), and CAS.
Beginning of Year (Sept - Oct)
The starting pistol fires! It's all about making big choices and understanding the landscape.
- Finalise Your Subjects: Lock in your three Higher Level (HL) and three Standard Level (SL) subjects. Choose wisely!
- Meet the Core: You'll get formal introductions to CAS, TOK, and the EE. Pay attention here—these aren't side projects; they are central to your diploma.
- CAS Kick-off: Start planning your Creativity, Activity, and Service projects. Remember, CAS is about consistent engagement over 18 months.
Mid-Year (Nov - March)
The initial excitement settles, and the real work begins. Momentum is your best friend now.
- The Big Question: You'll start brainstorming and identifying your research question for the Extended Essay. This is a huge step.
- Research Mode On: Once your question is approved, you'll begin the formal research for your EE.
- IA First Look: Your teachers will start introducing the Internal Assessments (IAs) for various subjects.
- First Test Run: Most schools hold mock or mid-year exams to check your progress. Use the feedback to guide your study.
- TOK Exhibition: Finalise your three objects and ensure your TOK exhibition draft is properly formatted.
End of Year (April - June)
You're wrapping up the first half of the marathon. The focus is on consolidating your work and preparing for the summer.
- EE Plan Formalised: You'll meet with your supervisor to finalize your research plan and set goals for your first draft.
- Group 4 Project: Time for the sciences to collaborate! The interdisciplinary Group 4 project often takes place here.
- Summer Mocks: One last set of internal exams to benchmark your knowledge before the break.
- TOK Exhibition: Your TOK exhibition is scheduled to be completed by the end of DP1. Finalise your draft and be prepared for the exhibition.
The DP1 Lanterna Tip: Your Extended Essay topic is something you'll live with for over a year. Choose a subject you are genuinely curious about, not just one you think will score well. Your passion will be your biggest motivator when you're deep in the research and writing process.
DP2: The Final Ascent
This is where the intensity ramps up. DP2 is a balancing act between finishing major coursework, revising the entire syllabus, and preparing for university applications. Organisation is everything.
Beginning of Year (Sept - Oct)
You hit the ground running. Juggling multiple major deadlines is the name of the game.
- University Apps Go Live: For many, the university application process (like UCAS) begins now. Time management is crucial.
- EE First Draft: This major deadline usually falls early in the term. Your supervisor's feedback here is gold.
- IA Deadlines Appear: The first wave of final IA submissions begins, often for subjects like Maths or Geography.
- TOK Essay: You will receive your TOK essay titles in the first week of September and will kickstart the process by choosing the title of your choice. Start planning and drafting your essay.
Mid-Year (Nov - Jan)
This is arguably the most demanding period of the entire diploma. Keep your head down and tick things off the list one by one.
- The Big Mocks: This is your dress rehearsal for the final exams. Take them seriously—they are the best preparation you'll get.
- Final IA Push: The deadlines for the rest of your IAs (e.g., Sciences, Languages) will fall in this window.
- EE and TOK Essay Final Touches: Your final meetings with your EE and TOK supervisor will take place as you polish your essays.
The End Game (Feb - May)
The finish line is in sight! Coursework is submitted, and the focus shifts 100% to exam revision.
- The 'Big External Assessment' Submissions: Your final Extended Essay, TOK Essay, Comparative Study (VA) and HLEs are submitted. A huge weight off your shoulders!
- IA submission: Next, you will submit your IAs for all subjects, including your TOK exhibition.
- Study Leave: Classes end, and you enter the final, focused period of revision before exams.
- Final IB Exams: This is it! From late April to late May, you'll sit the exams that you've been working towards for two years.
- Graduation: You did it. Time to celebrate!
The DP2 Lanterna Tip: Use a digital or physical planner religiously. Break down every huge task (like "write TOK essay") into tiny, 1-hour steps ("review prescribed titles," "create outline for PT #3," "find 2 RLS examples"). Ticking off small wins is the best way to fight procrastination and stay motivated when you feel overwhelmed.
Related to IB Diploma Timeline
All About the IB (PYP, MYP, DP, CP)
Ultimate IB Program Guide: Explore PYP, MYP, & DP. Get clarity on benefits, workload, and global university recognition for students. Free guide from IB 7 grads.
How to Choose Your IB Subjects Guide
Choosing IB subjects? Align your HL/SL choices with university requirements & career goals. Our strategic guide helps you avoid common mistakes for IB success.
.png)
IB Organization System Guide
Master IB organization and conquer overwhelm! Get expert tips to manage EE & IA deadlines, prioritize tasks, and build a balanced study schedule without burnout.
The Ultimate DP2 Comeback Guide
Transform your IB grades in DP2! Get the strategic guide to the best IB revision techniques: active recall, spaced repetition, and past papers to study smarter and improve your scores. Written by 40+ IB Graduates
IB Year 2 (DP2) Roadmap for Parents
IB Year 2 (DP2) Overview: A roadmap for parents covering IAs/EE completion, university applications, mock exams, and final exams. Anticipate key pressure points.
MYP to DP Transition Guide
Ease the MYP to DP "shock"! Guide for parents and students on the transition, highlighting the shift from criterion-based to exam-heavy assessment and suggesting summer prep.
How to Make the Best Start to Your IB Year
Learn how to make the best start to your IB year with expert revision tips. Master time management, establish a routine, and find balance for academic success in the Diploma Programme.
How to Plan Your IB Year: Lessons & Best Practices
Learn how to plan your IB year effectively with expert revision tips. Discover the power of retrospective planning and daily study habits for DP success.
trustpilot - slider -grey bg
Perfectly Matched Tutors
600+ handpicked tutors from across the world with the best background and experience.
Teachers
- Certified educators with an average of 15 years experience.
Elite
- Teachers with IB examiner experience or senior markers
Stockholm born, Globally present
We are IB experts committed to achieving your academic goals.