IB Exams Scheduled for 2026? Detailed Overview of IB Assessment Strategy
The International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme (IBDP) is set to embark on a significant change, as it prepares to pilot digital examinations for the first time in 2026. These exams will be taken on laptops or desktop computers within IB schools, mirroring existing paper-based assessments to ensure fairness and comparability[1].
The IB's decision to introduce digital exams is part of their commitment to support their global community of over 180,000 DP and CP students, and to reflect how students learn today[1]. However, the specific subjects included in the 2026 pilot digital exams have not been explicitly detailed in the publicly available sources.
The examination schedules for May and November 2026 have been released, but they do not specify which subjects will be digital versus paper-based for the pilot[3][5]. Starting in May 2026, select schools will offer digital exam formats in some DP subjects.
The IB's vision for digital exams extends beyond modernizing learning and enhancing accessibility. It also includes data security, adaptive exam design, and ensuring that students will not be disadvantaged for using one format over the other[2]. The grade boundaries and assessment criteria will remain identical for both formats, with digital exams designed to mirror the paper versions in content and rigor.
The IB Diploma Programme (DP) will conduct its May and November exam sessions in 2026 as planned, with schools having the option to conduct exams either on paper or digitally, based on their resources and readiness[4]. The IB aims to reduce dependency on printing, shipping, and manual logistics by introducing digital exams, reflecting a shift towards a more sustainable and efficient approach.
[1] International Baccalaureate. (2023). IB to pilot digital exams in 2026. Retrieved from https://www.ibo.org/news/ib-to-pilot-digital-exams-in-2026/
[2] International Baccalaureate. (2023). IB digital exams: FAQs. Retrieved from https://www.ibo.org/programmes/diploma-programme/assessment/digital-exams/
[3] International Baccalaureate. (2023). Examination calendar 2026. Retrieved from https://www.ibo.org/programmes/diploma-programme/assessment/exam-sessions/examination-calendar/
[4] International Baccalaureate. (2023). Exam choices for schools. Retrieved from https://www.ibo.org/programmes/diploma-programme/assessment/exam-sessions/exam-choices-for-schools/
The IB Diploma Programme's introduction of digital exams is a part of their commitment to expansion in education and self-development, particularly online education, and learning. Starting in May 2026, select schools will offer digital exam formats, designed to be as rigorous as their paper counterparts, as part of the IB's aim to foster data security, adaptive exam design, and ensuring equal opportunities for students.
