The Complete 2-Year IB Diploma Study Roadmap

A useful IB Diploma Programme plan accounts for school assignments and university applications as well as final exams. Internal deadlines and exam sessions differ between international schools in Japan, so start with your school calendar rather than a generic timeline.

How does the IB Diploma work?

The DP normally spans two years and combines six subjects with the TOK, EE and CAS core. Subject choices follow programme rules; another subject may be taken instead of the arts. Check how each subject is assessed and whether prospective universities require particular subjects or higher-level courses.

What should students prioritise in year one?

Early grades matter, but the first priority is understanding the material and learning how to answer. Use the assessment criteria and sort feedback into gaps in knowledge, misread questions and insufficient explanation. Narrow the EE topic with school guidance and record sources from the start.

How can students balance internal assessments and exams in year two?

Put the school’s IA and EE deadlines alongside applications and mock exams; identify crowded weeks before they arrive. Each week, reserve time for both the nearest submission and review of earlier material. Use past papers to diagnose mistakes against the marking criteria, not simply to accumulate practice.

Can a student choose subjects before deciding on a university?

Yes, but check a small set of plausible degree programmes before choosing: missing a required subject can close a route. For a science-oriented student, compare each university’s mathematics and science requirements. Choose a combination that meets those requirements and is sustainable, rather than adding difficulty for its own sake.