IB DP Class 12 Science

IB DP Class 12 Science Exam Pattern 2026-27

Complete HL & SL Assessment Structure — Physics, Chemistry, Biology & Mathematics

Understand the exam pattern, paper types, marking scheme, and assessment criteria for IB DP Science final examinations. Your complete guide to IB DP Science exam pattern.

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IB DP Science Assessment Overview 2026-27

Assessment Component	SL Weightage	HL Weightage	Details
Paper 1	20%	20%	Multiple choice questions
Paper 2	40%	36%	Short answer and extended response
Paper 3	20%	24%	Data analysis and option topics
Internal Assessment (IA)	20%	20%	Scientific investigation

Note: All Science subjects follow a similar assessment structure with subject-specific content variations.

IB DP Physics Exam Pattern 2026-27

HL & SL

Paper	Type	SL Duration	HL Duration	SL Marks	HL Marks
Paper 1	MCQ	45 min	60 min	30	40
Paper 2	Short Answer + Extended	75 min	135 min	50	90
Paper 3	Data Analysis + Option	60 min	75 min	35	45

IB DP Chemistry Exam Pattern 2026-27

HL & SL

Paper	Type	SL Duration	HL Duration	SL Marks	HL Marks
Paper 1	MCQ	45 min	60 min	30	40
Paper 2	Short Answer + Extended	75 min	135 min	50	90
Paper 3	Data Analysis + Option	60 min	75 min	35	45

IB DP Biology Exam Pattern 2026-27

HL & SL

Paper	Type	SL Duration	HL Duration	SL Marks	HL Marks
Paper 1	MCQ	45 min	60 min	30	40
Paper 2	Short Answer + Extended	75 min	135 min	50	90
Paper 3	Data Analysis + Option	60 min	75 min	35	45

IB DP Mathematics Exam Pattern 2026-27

AA & AI

Paper	Type	SL Duration	HL Duration	SL Marks	HL Marks
Paper 1	Non-calculator	90 min	120 min	80	110
Paper 2	Calculator allowed	90 min	120 min	80	110
Paper 3 (HL only)	Extended response	N/A	60 min	N/A	55

Note: Paper 3 is only for HL Mathematics students.

Internal Assessment (IA) - Science Subjects

IA Components

• Scientific Investigation: Independent research
• Report: Written report (6-12 pages)
• SL Weightage: 20% of final grade
• HL Weightage: 20% of final grade

Assessment Criteria

• Personal Engagement: 2-3 marks
• Exploration: 3-4 marks
• Analysis: 3-4 marks
• Evaluation: 3-4 marks
• Communication: 2-3 marks

Frequently Asked Questions

How many papers are there in IB DP Science subjects?

IB DP Science subjects (Physics, Chemistry, Biology) have 3 external papers (Paper 1, Paper 2, Paper 3) plus an Internal Assessment (IA).

What is the difference between HL and SL exam patterns?

HL exams are longer (more time), have more marks, and include additional content. SL exams are shorter and cover only core content.

How can StudyDecode help me with IB DP Science exam preparation?

StudyDecode provides comprehensive exam preparation for IB DP Science students. We help you understand the exam pattern, practice past papers, and develop exam strategies. Book a free consultation to know more.