Introduction
The IB exam schedule tells you when exams happen — but it does not explain how exam days actually work.
This gap leads to confusion, stress, and mistakes on exam day.
Students often ask:
- “Why do I have to arrive so early?”
- “Why can’t I leave between exams?”
- “Why are the rules so strict?”
This article explains what the IB schedule does and doesn’t tell you, and what students should expect on exam day.
What the IB Exam Schedule Does Tell You
The official schedule tells you:
- Which exams you sit
- The order of exams
- The session (morning or afternoon)
It is a timing framework, not a rulebook.
What the Schedule Does Not Explain
The schedule does not show:
- Arrival times
- Supervision periods
- Waiting room rules
- What happens between sessions
These details are controlled by IB regulations and school procedures.
Why Arrival Times Are Earlier Than Expected
Students must arrive early so schools can:
- Verify attendance
- Check materials
- Enforce exam security
- Prevent last-minute disruptions
Arriving late risks exclusion from the exam.
Why You Are Supervised Before and After Exams
Supervision ensures:
- No communication about exam content
- No access to notes or devices
- Fair conditions for all students
This applies even if you finish early or have another exam later.
Why You Can’t Leave Freely Between Exams
When students have multiple exams or long breaks:
- Leaving could compromise exam security
- Information could be shared
- Conditions would become unfair
Supervision protects exam integrity.
The Biggest Exam Day Mistake Students Make
The biggest mistake is arguing with procedures on the day.
Rules are:
- Non-negotiable
- Applied equally
- Enforced for exam validity
Understanding this in advance reduces stress.
What Students Can Control on Exam Day
Students can control:
- Sleep the night before
- What they bring
- How calmly they follow instructions
- Their exam technique
Calm compliance helps performance.
Using the RevisionDojo Study Planner
The RevisionDojo Study Planner helps students prepare for exam-day realities by:
- Planning revision to finish early
- Reducing last-minute panic
- Preparing mentally for strict routines
- Managing energy across sessions
Plan with confidence here:
https://www.revisiondojo.com/study-planner
RevisionDojo Call to Action
IB exam days feel strict because they are designed to be fair.
Use the RevisionDojo Study Planner to:
- Prepare early
- Avoid surprises
- Stay calm and focused
Start planning here:
https://www.revisiondojo.com/study-planner
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why can’t I bring my phone into the exam room?
Phones compromise exam security, even if they are switched off.
Why am I supervised even after I finish early?
To prevent sharing of exam content with others.
Does breaking exam-day rules affect my grade?
It can invalidate your exam, regardless of performance.
How can I reduce exam-day stress?
Know the rules in advance and finish heavy revision early.
