2025 IB Exam Schedule: Key Dates & Language Prep Tips for US Students

Last updated: 09/04/2025

The 2025 International Baccalaureate (IB) exams are approaching, and understanding the exam schedule is crucial for US students aiming to excel.

The IB program is recognized for its rigorous academic standards and is highly regarded by universities worldwide. For US students, the IB diploma can enhance college applications and may lead to college credit.

In this guide, we’ll provide the official 2025 IB exam schedule, focusing on key dates and subjects relevant to US students. Additionally, we’ll offer practical tips for preparing for the Language A and Language B exams, which are central to the IB curriculum. Whether you’re a student or a parent, this information will help you plan effectively for the upcoming exams.

Note: Always confirm exam dates with your school’s IB coordinator, as schedules may vary by institution.

IB exam schedule

2025 IB Exam Schedule Overview

The 2025 IB exams are scheduled as follows:

May 2025 Session:
- Start Date: Monday, May 5, 2025
- End Date: Friday, May 23, 2025
- Examination Zones: The IB divides the world into different exam zones (A, B, C), each with specific start times. For US students, the relevant zones are typically A and B
November 2025 Session:
- Start Date: Monday, November 3, 2025
- End Date: Friday, November 21, 2025
- Note: The November session is primarily for retakes and for students in the Southern Hemisphere

2025 IB Exam Schedule Table Format

May 2025 Session (US Time Zones)

Date	Time (EST / PST)	Subject	Exam Type
May 5	8:00–11:00 AM / 5:00–8:00 AM	Language A: Literature	Paper 1
May 5	12:00–3:00 PM / 9:00 AM–12:00 PM	Mathematics SL/HL	Paper 1
May 6	8:00–11:00 AM / 5:00–8:00 AM	Language B (Ab Initio/SL/HL)	Paper 1
May 6	12:00–3:00 PM / 9:00 AM–12:00 PM	Sciences (Biology, Chemistry, Physics)	Paper 1
May 7	8:00–11:00 AM / 5:00–8:00 AM	Language A: Literature	Paper 2
May 7	12:00–3:00 PM / 9:00 AM–12:00 PM	Mathematics SL/HL	Paper 2
May 8	8:00–11:00 AM / 5:00–8:00 AM	Language B (Ab Initio/SL/HL)	Paper 2
May 8	12:00–3:00 PM / 9:00 AM–12:00 PM	Sciences	Paper 2
May 9	8:00–11:00 AM / 5:00–8:00 AM	Internal Assessments (IA) submissions	—

November 2025 Session (US Time Zones)

Date	Time (EST / PST)	Subject	Exam Type
Nov 3	8:00–11:00 AM / 5:00–8:00 AM	Language A: Literature	Paper 1
Nov 3	12:00–3:00 PM / 9:00 AM–12:00 PM	Mathematics SL/HL	Paper 1
Nov 4	8:00–11:00 AM / 5:00–8:00 AM	Language B (Ab Initio/SL/HL)	Paper 1
Nov 4	12:00–3:00 PM / 9:00 AM–12:00 PM	Sciences (Biology, Chemistry, Physics)	Paper 1
Nov 5	8:00–11:00 AM / 5:00–8:00 AM	Language A: Literature	Paper 2
Nov 5	12:00–3:00 PM / 9:00 AM–12:00 PM	Mathematics SL/HL	Paper 2
Nov 6	8:00–11:00 AM / 5:00–8:00 AM	Language B (Ab Initio/SL/HL)	Paper 2
Nov 6	12:00–3:00 PM / 9:00 AM–12:00 PM	Sciences	Paper 2
Nov 7	8:00–11:00 AM / 5:00–8:00 AM	Internal Assessments (IA) submissions	—

The Value of IB for US Students

The IB diploma is recognized by over 2,000 universities in the United States, including all Ivy League schools. According to the IB Organization, students with an IB diploma are more likely to be accepted into top universities and often receive college credit for their IB courses.

In fact, studies have shown that IB graduates are:

80% more likely to be admitted to top-tier universities.
57% more likely to receive college credit for their IB coursework.

This makes the IB program a valuable asset for US students aiming for competitive college admissions.

Language A and Language B Exam Preparation Tips

Language A (Literature & Language and Literature):

Reading Comprehension: Focus on analyzing literary texts, understanding themes, and interpreting characters. Practice by reading a variety of genres and discussing them with peers or teachers.
Essay Writing: Develop a clear thesis statement and support it with evidence from the text. Practice writing timed essays to improve speed and coherence.
Oral Presentations: Prepare for the Individual Oral by practicing speaking clearly and confidently about your chosen texts.

Language B (Second Language Acquisition):

Vocabulary Building: Use flashcards and language apps to expand your vocabulary. Regular practice is key.
Listening Skills: Listen to podcasts, watch movies, and engage with media in the target language to improve comprehension.
Speaking Practice: Engage in conversations with native speakers or language exchange partners to enhance fluency.
Writing Practice: Write essays and short stories in the target language, focusing on grammar and sentence structure.

For comprehensive preparation, consider utilizing resources like WuKong Education‘s Chinese Language courses, which offer structured lessons, practice exercises, and personalized feedback.

Conclusion

Understanding the 2025 IB exam schedule and preparing effectively for the Language A and Language B exams are crucial steps toward success in the IB program. By utilizing official resources and seeking additional support from platforms like WuKong Education, US students can enhance their preparation and performance.

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Roxy | WuKong Chinese Teacher

I have been deeply involved in the K12 education field for many years, acquiring rich professional knowledge and experience. My extensive understanding of Chinese culture and education enhances my ability to integrate diverse educational methodologies. I hold a Master’s degree in Education from the University of Melbourne, which bolsters my expertise and pedagogical skills. Passionate about fostering educational environments that inspire and empower, I am committed to creating inclusive learning experiences. My aim is to positively impact students’ lives and equip them with tools for success in a globalized world.