The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) is a rigorous two-year curriculum recognised by top universities worldwide. Students who understand its structure early and prepare strategically are far more likely to stay confident, organised, and successful throughout the programme.
This guide breaks down how the IB Diploma works, why early preparation matters, and how to start IB the smart way.
Understanding the Structure of the IB Diploma Programme
The IB Diploma Programme is designed to balance academic depth with breadth and personal development.
Subjects
Students study six subjects across different disciplines:
- Three Higher Level (HL) subjects
- Three Standard Level (SL) subjects
Higher Level courses require more instructional time and deeper analysis, while Standard Level courses still demand strong conceptual understanding.
Core Components
In addition to subjects, all IB students complete three compulsory core components:
- Extended Essay (EE)
A 4,000-word independent research paper on a topic of the student’s choice. - Theory of Knowledge (TOK)
A critical thinking course that explores how knowledge is constructed across disciplines. - Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS)
A personal development requirement involving creative pursuits, physical activity, and service learning.
IB Scoring System
The IB Diploma is graded out of 45 points:
- 42 points from six subjects
- Up to 3 bonus points from EE and TOK combined
Understanding this structure early helps students plan their time realistically and avoid burnout later.
Why Early Preparation Matters for IB Students
Starting IB without preparation can feel overwhelming. Even a short period of advance preparation can significantly improve outcomes.
Benefits of Preparing Ahead
- Builds a strong academic foundation before content accelerates
- Reduces stress by familiarising students with IA-style tasks
- Increases confidence before formal assessments begin
Many students find that 4–6 weeks of summer preparation before IB starts makes the transition far smoother.
Choosing the Right IB Subjects for Long-Term Success
Subject selection plays a major role in both IB performance and university readiness.
Smart Subject Selection Tips
- Choose HL subjects aligned with intended university courses
- Avoid combining too many high-workload HL subjects
- Be honest about your strengths: essay-based vs calculation-based subjects
Example Subject Combinations
- Business or Law Pathways
HL English, Economics, History - STEM Pathways
HL Mathematics AA, Physics, Chemistry
Balanced subject choices reduce stress while still keeping doors open for university applications.
Strengthening Key Academic Skills Before IB Starts
You do not need to master IB content before the programme begins, but developing core skills early is extremely helpful.
Academic Writing Skills
- Practice structured essays with clear introductions and conclusions
- Learn basic citation formats such as MLA or APA
- Focus on clarity, evidence, and argument development
Critical Thinking Skills
- Read opinion pieces and practise forming counterarguments
- Discuss ethical and global issues with peers
- Question assumptions and evaluate sources
Mathematics and Science Foundations
- Review algebra, graphing, and basic statistics
- Refresh foundational biology and chemistry concepts if relevant
- Focus on understanding concepts, not memorisation
Getting Familiar With IB Assessments Early
Understanding how IB assessments work removes much of the fear surrounding them.
Internal Assessments (IAs)
- Completed during the course
- Typically worth 20–30% of the final grade
- Require investigation, analysis, or extended writing
Extended Essay (EE)
- Choose a topic you genuinely enjoy
- Begin early with reading and planning
- Strong organisation prevents panic in Year 2
Theory of Knowledge (TOK)
- Blends philosophy, logic, and real-world examples
- Develops analytical thinking valued by universities
Building a Sustainable IB Study Routine
Consistency matters more than intensity in IB.
Planning and Organisation
- Use tools such as Google Calendar, Notion, or Trello
- Plan weekly goals rather than cramming
Goal Setting
- Set specific targets, such as completing subject notes by a set week
- Use focused study methods like timed sessions with short breaks
Maintaining Balance
- Schedule time for rest, physical activity, and CAS commitments
- A balanced routine prevents burnout and improves focus
Planning for CAS From the Start
CAS is a continuous requirement, not a last-minute task.
CAS Categories
- Creativity: art, music, design, writing
- Activity: sports, fitness, outdoor challenges
- Service: volunteering, tutoring, community projects
Students should log experiences consistently and reflect regularly using a CAS journal.
Sample Pre-IB Preparation Timeline
Summer Before IB Begins
- Finalise subject choices
- Read sample Extended Essays in areas of interest
- Attempt one or two past paper questions per subject
First Three Months of IB
- Organise digital or physical folders for each subject
- Draft a CAS plan
- Identify strongest and weakest subjects early
Leading Up to Mock Exams
- Create a realistic revision schedule
- Use spaced repetition techniques
- Practise timed essays and exam questions
Frequently Asked Questions About Preparing for IB
How much should I study daily in IB Year 1?
Around one to two hours per day is ideal initially, increasing near assessment periods.
Is summer preparation necessary?
It is not mandatory, but it is strongly recommended for students entering demanding IB schools.
Do I need tutoring before IB starts?
Not necessarily, but guided resources or structured platforms can provide a strong head start.
What are common early mistakes?
- Procrastinating on Internal Assessments
- Choosing too many demanding HL subjects
- Ignoring CAS until late in the programme
How can I stay motivated?
Set short goals, track progress visually, and celebrate small milestones.
Start IB Strong With RevisionDojo
RevisionDojo helps students begin IB with clarity, structure, and confidence.
Students gain access to:
- Pre-IB subject primers and revision planners
- Extended Essay topic guidance and frameworks
- Past paper libraries with mark schemes
- One-to-one support from high-scoring IB graduates
Starting IB prepared makes all the difference. With the right strategy and support, students can stay balanced, confident, and academically successful from day one.
