IB Geography: A Complete Guide (2025)

Are you considering IB Geography but unsure what the course entails? This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from syllabus updates to exam formats and career prospects. Whether you’re comparing IB to A-Level Geography or deciding between Standard Level (SL) and Higher Level (HL), this guide will help you make an informed decision by covering all the essential principles.

2025 IB Geography Exam Timetable

The International Baccalaureate (IB) Geography examinations for May 2025 are scheduled as follows:​

Friday, 9 May 2025, Afternoon Session:

• Geography HL Paper 1: 2 hours 15 minutes​
• Geography SL Paper 1: 1 hour 30 minutes​

Monday, 12 May 2025, Morning Session:

• Geography HL/SL Paper 2: 1 hour 15 minutes​
• Geography HL Paper 3: 1 hour​

These exams assess students' understanding of geographic themes, skills, and perspectives. It's essential to be well-prepared and familiar with the specific requirements of each paper. Check out IB Exam Schedule 2025 for more subjects!

What is IB Geography?

IB Geography is a two-year course that is part of the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP). This comprehensive subject delves into the interconnectedness of our world through the study of both physical and human geography. Designed to equip students with essential skills and knowledge, IB Geography prepares learners for success in an increasingly globalized environment. The course explores the intricate relationships between people, places, and environments, making it a popular choice for students eager to develop a deeper understanding of the world’s complexities. By examining diverse geographic perspectives, students gain insights into how human activities and natural processes shape our planet. For more on the subject, check out the IB Geography Subject Guide.

Overview of IB Geography Syllabus & Course Structure(2025)

The IB Geography syllabus is structured to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of both physical and human geography, integrating scientific and socio-economic methodologies. The course is divided into core themes and optional themes and three main components:

This structured approach ensures that students develop critical thinking skills and a nuanced understanding of the complex interactions between societies and their environments. It also emphasises the essential understanding learners need to succeed in assessments, particularly with updated resources designed for the revised syllabus. Check out the Official Subject Brief here.

IB Geography Syllabus Updates (2025)

Understanding recent syllabus changes is crucial for students sitting their IB Geography exams in 2025 and beyond. The International Baccalaureate (IB) has made several updates to the Geography syllabus in the past few years, impacting the way students learn and are assessed.

Recent Changes to the IB Geography Syllabus (2025)

• Greater focus on sustainability and climate change – Additional emphasis on human-environment interactions and sustainable solutions.
• Integration of GIS (Geographic Information Systems) – Students are now encouraged to use GIS technology in their internal assessments.
• Refinement of optional themes – Some themes have been slightly adjusted to reflect contemporary global challenges.
• Adjustment to IA (Internal Assessment) guidelines – More clarity on data collection and presentation requirements.

These updates ensure that IB Geography remains relevant and aligned with global developments. Students taking exams from May 2025 onwards should familiarise themselves with these changes to optimise their performance.

IB Geography vs A-Level Geography

Comparing IB Geography with A-Level Geography can help students decide which qualification best suits their academic and career aspirations, especially considering the importance of preparation for IB exams. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Which One Should You Choose?

• If you prefer coursework and fieldwork, IB Geography is a great option.
• If you excel in written exams and prefer structured content, A-Level Geography might be a better fit.
• Check university entry requirements—most universities accept both but may have preferences for specific courses.

Choosing Between IB Geography HL and SL

Choosing between Higher Level (HL) and Standard Level (SL) in IB Geography is a significant decision. The International Baccalaureate Organization states that IB students must choose three subjects at HL and three at SL, and whether to choose SL or HL for Geography will depend on your interests, aspirations, and academic strengths. Physical geography, which encompasses the study of the natural environment, plays a crucial role within the broader study of geography and can influence your choice between HL and SL.

Key Differences

• HL covers additional topics: HL Geography is more intensive and covers additional topics under the theme 'Global Interactions', such as cultural diversity, economic interdependence, and globalisation.
• HL involves more exam papers: Three papers for HL vs. two for SL.
• HL requires a greater depth of study and analysis.

Factors to Consider

• Interest in Geography – If you enjoy the subject and want a deeper understanding, choose HL.
• University Requirements – If you plan to pursue it or a related field at university, HL Geography could be a great choice. Some universities, such as LSE, prefer HL Geography for Geography-related degrees.
• Workload Management – HL requires more study hours and assessments than SL. On the other hand, SL Geography offers a comprehensive overview of key geographical concepts and issues but involves a lesser workload. If you enjoy Geography but are not considering it as a major focus for further study, SL could be a good fit.

Below is an overview of the grades achieved in each level in 2024, giving interesting insights into HL which attained higher mean grades. If you want to compare IB Geography with the Hardest IB Subjects and the Easiest IB Subjects, check out these separate articles to help you make the best decision for you!

Number of IB Geography SL & HL candidates and mean grades in 2024

Have a look at our comprehensive set of IB Geography SL and IB Geography HL Resources, developed by expert IB teachers and examiners:

📚 View IB Geography SL Study Notes
📚 View IB Geography HL Study Notes
📚 View IB Geography SL Past Papers
📚 View IB Geography HL Past Papers

Understanding the IB Geography grading system

IB Geography is graded using the 7-point IB Grading Scale like any other IB subject, with 7 being the highest attainable score. The grade is a reflection of a student's overall performance in the course, including both external assessments (written examinations) and internal assessments (fieldwork report). The weightings of these components differ between Standard Level (SL) and Higher Level (HL) courses.​

Below is a table summarising the assessment structure for both SL and HL according to the IB Geography Guide:

Each assessment component is evaluated based on specific criteria, focusing on students' understanding, application, analysis, and evaluation of geographical concepts.While comprehending the grading system is essential, it's equally important to engage with the subject matter earnestly, as the true value lies in the knowledge and skills acquired throughout the course.

IB Geography Exam Format (2025)

The IB Geography exam format closely follows the one described in the IB Geography Guide. Understanding this format is crucial for students aiming for high scores. Here's a summary table to begin with:

Standard Level (SL)

For Standard Level (SL) students, there are two papers:

• Paper 1: Focuses on core themes and is divided into two sections: Section A, where you answer short-answer questions on each of the two topics studied, and Section B, where you write an extended response to one of the topics.
• Paper 2: Assesses optional themes and follows a similar format: Section A requires short-answer responses on each of the two studied topics, and Section B demands an extended response on one of these.

Preparation for IB exams is crucial, as it involves understanding complex principles and excelling in both internal and external assessments.

Higher Level (HL)

For Higher Level (HL) students, there is an additional Paper 3, focusing on the ‘Global Interactions’ theme. Here, students respond to two extended response questions.

Exam Tips

Preparing for these exams requires a firm understanding of the syllabus content and good exam technique. Here are the top tips:

• Time management is crucial – Practice IB Past Papers to improve speed.
• Understand command terms – Words like evaluate and discuss require different types of responses.
• Use case studies effectively – Support arguments with real-world examples.

Preparation for IB exams is crucial, and using study guides aligned with the revised syllabus can help maximize learners' understanding and achievement in both internal and external assessments. Here's the IB Exam Schedule 2025 if you want to check it out!

What is a Good IB Geography Score?

In the context of the International Baccalaureate, a score of 7 is the highest achievable grade, and is generally regarded as excellent. However, what constitutes a 'good' IB Geography score can vary depending on the perspective.

From a university admissions viewpoint, a good score would be one that meets or exceeds the entry requirements for your chosen course. For example, the University of Oxford generally requires a score of 6 or 7 in Geography HL for its Geography course.

Looking at the 2024 IB Geography exam results:

• 14.3% of Geography HL students achieved a 7, while 28.6% scored a 6.
• 8.7% of Geography SL students achieved a 7, while 21.7% scored a 6.
• The mean grade for Geography HL was 5.3, while for SL it was 4.8.

Grade Distribution of IB Geography HL vs SL (2024)

These statistics indicate that achieving a 7 in HL is relatively rare, but a 6 is more attainable, making it a strong score for university applications.

From a personal standpoint, a good score is one that reflects your best effort and mastery of key geographical concepts. It's also important to remember that the IB, with its emphasis on critical thinking and real-world application, values the learning process as much as the final grade.

In any case, achieving a 'good' score typically involves a combination of consistent study, understanding the syllabus, and effective exam technique.

How to revise and get a 7 in IB Geography?

Achieving a 7 in IB Geography requires a strategic approach to revision that incorporates understanding the syllabus, consistent practice, and effective study techniques. Here are a few top tips:

1. Start early and create a study plan: Consistency is key in studying. Break down your study material into manageable chunks and spread your revision over several weeks or months before your exam. Remember, last-minute cramming is generally not effective for long-term retention.
2. Understand the assessment criteria: Familiarise yourself with the IB Geography assessment criteria. Ensure you have a clear understanding of the knowledge and skills required to excel in the exams and internal assessments.
3. Practice past papers: Familiarise yourself with the exam format by practicing past papers. This will help you become comfortable with the style of questions and improve your time management skills. Analyse the mark schemes to understand the expectations of examiners.
4. Engage in active learning: Instead of passively reading or highlighting, actively engage with the material. Summarise information in your own words, teach concepts to others, or engage in group discussions to reinforce your understanding.
5. Seek support: Collaborate with classmates, form study groups, or seek guidance from your teacher or IB Geography tutor. Exploring different perspectives and discussing challenging topics can enhance your learning experience.
6. Utilise online resources: Take advantage of online resources specifically tailored to IB Geography revision. Websites like IB Geography Revision and IB Documents offer study materials, revision guides, and practice questions.

This is what a student shared with us about her experience successfully completing IB Geography:

"Securing a high score in the IB Geography exam was no overnight success: I went through countless consistent syllabus review, weekly revisions, and active techniques like flashcards and group discussions. It's a journey that demands dedication, but the outcome is more than rewarding!"

Ultimately, achieving a 7 in IB Geography self-discipline and effective exam strategies which, understandably, can be hard to master in the beginning. That's why students often leverage IB tutoring to benefit from the insights of expert IB Geography Tutors and to maximise efficiency and effectiveness in their studies.

Overview of IB Geography Internal Assessment (2025)

The Internal Assessment (IA) in IB Geography is a crucial component of the course, contributing 25% of the final grade for SL and 20% for HL students, according to the IB Geography Guide. The IA is an independent investigation where students conduct fieldwork and produce a 2,500-word report.

Key Updates to the IB Geography IA (2025)

• Greater emphasis on data reliability: Students must justify their choice of data collection methods and assess data limitations more critically.
• Expanded use of GIS (Geographic Information Systems): Encouraged for data analysis and presentation.
• Increased focus on sustainability and ethical considerations: Fieldwork topics should align with global sustainability themes where applicable.
• Clearer guidelines on structuring the IA: More defined sections for research questions, methods, data analysis, and evaluations.

Steps in the IA Process: Emphasizing Independent Research

1. Selecting a Research Question

• Must be relevant to the syllabus and narrow enough for in-depth investigation.
• Should focus on geographical themes such as urban development, climate patterns, or population dynamics.

2. Planning and Conducting Fieldwork

• Primary Data Collection: Surveys, observations, interviews, or experiments.
• Secondary Data Collection: Research from books, databases, and official reports.
• Ethical Considerations: Ensure permissions are obtained and data collection follows ethical guidelines.

3. Data Presentation and Analysis

• Use geographical tools such as graphs, charts, GIS mapping, and statistical analysis.
• Identify patterns, trends, and relationships within the data.
• Relate findings to geographical theories and concepts.

4. Conclusion and Evaluation

• Answer the research question clearly with evidence-based reasoning.
• Assess the effectiveness of the methodology, acknowledging limitations and possible improvements.
• Suggest refinements for future research.

Resources for IB Geography IA

• IB Geography IA Guide: Official IB documents outlining assessment criteria.
• GIS Platforms: Tools like ArcGIS or Google Earth for mapping and data analysis.
• Case Study Databases: Academic resources and previous IA examples to understand expectations.
• IB Geography IA examples: Can be helpful for students to understand the requirements and expectations better.

By carefully following these steps and applying the updated guidelines, students can produce a high-scoring IB Geography IA that showcases their research and analytical abilities effectively.

Top resources for IB Geography preparation

In your journey to conquer IB Geography, reliable resources can be a significant asset. Here are some of the top resources that can assist in your revision and preparation:

• The Official IBO Geography Guide: This guide should be your starting point as it contains the complete syllabus and assessment criteria.
• IB Past Papers: These are vital for getting used to the format of the exams and for practising under timed conditions. Websites like IB Past Papers have extensive collections of past papers.
• IB Geography Textbooks: These provide comprehensive coverage of the syllabus content. Notable examples include 'Geography for the IB Diploma' by Garrett Nagle and Briony Cooke and 'Planet Geography' by Stephen Codrington.
• Online platforms: Websites like Geography All The Way offer extensive resources, including IB Geography Q&A Revision Notes, case studies, and interactive quizzes.
• News Websites: Stay updated with current global events relevant to your syllabus. Websites like BBC, The Guardian, and National Geographic are good starting points.

Remember, these resources are tools to supplement your classroom learning. Use them strategically, and don't overwhelm yourself by trying to use all of them at once.

Exploring career opportunities with IB Geography

With a grounding in IB Geography, an array of exciting career opportunities opens up. Here are a few potential paths you could consider:

• Urban Planning and Development: Geography helps you understand spatial relationships and environmental implications, making you well-suited for careers in urban planning and development. This could involve designing urban spaces, planning housing projects, or managing public utilities. Information on this career can be found at the Urban Land Institute.
• Environmental Management: With climate change becoming an increasing concern, there's a growing need for professionals who can manage and protect our natural resources. A career in environmental management might involve creating sustainability plans, conducting environmental assessments, or working on conservation projects. More information can be found at the Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment.
• GIS Specialist: Geographic Information Systems (GIS) is a rapidly growing field, and geography students, with their understanding of spatial data, are well-positioned to enter this industry. A GIS Specialist might create maps, analyse spatial data, or develop GIS software. More details can be found on the Esri website.
• Teaching and Research: If you're passionate about the subject, why not consider a career in teaching or academic research? Inspiring the next generation of geographers or contributing to the academic field could be highly rewarding. Check out the British Educational Research Association for further insights.

Remember, the skills and knowledge you gain from IB Geography, such as data analysis, problem-solving, and critical thinking, are transferable and highly valued across many sectors.

Conclusion

In conclusion, IB Geography offers a comprehensive and exciting exploration of our ever-evolving world. Not only does it equip you with a nuanced understanding of key global issues, but it also hones transferable skills highly prized in the modern job market. The subject offers a broad spectrum of potential careers, including urban planning, environmental management, and GIS. When properly armed with the right resources and a strategic revision plan, achieving a top score in IB Geography becomes an attainable goal. Dive into the intriguing world of geography, and you'll find it's not just about places but about understanding the intricate dynamics of our world.