IB History: A Complete Guide (2025)

IB History is a challenging yet rewarding course within the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP), offering students a deep dive into modern history, particularly the 20th century. This course not only covers significant historical events, movements, and influential figures but also sharpens students’ critical thinking skills, source analysis, and historical argumentation—key skills for university and beyond.

In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about IB History, including the syllabus structure, key topics, assessment components, and expert tips to help you succeed. Whether you're deciding between Standard Level (SL) and Higher Level (HL) or looking for the best revision strategies, this article provides a complete roadmap to excelling in IB History.

Why study IB History?

Studying IB History equips students with a profound understanding of past events and their lasting impact on societies worldwide. Beyond memorising dates and events, the course develops critical thinking, analytical reasoning, and research skills, which are highly valued in fields such as journalism, law, politics, international relations, and academia. The ability to evaluate sources, construct well-supported arguments, and interpret historical narratives makes IB History an excellent foundation for university studies and professional careers.

Additionally, IB History fosters a global perspective, encouraging students to consider multiple viewpoints, cultural contexts, and ethical implications. By examining historical patterns and decision-making processes, students not only gain a deeper appreciation for the complexity of human history but also develop empathy and a nuanced understanding of different cultures and ideologies—essential skills for an increasingly interconnected world.

Is IB History hard?

The International Baccalaureate (IB) History course is recognized as one of the Hardest IB Subjects for its academic rigor, demanding significant commitment from students. In the May 2024 examination session, the average score for IB History Higher Level (HL) was 4.4 out of 7, which is slightly below the average for other humanities subjects. Notably, over 80% of IB History HL candidates achieved a score of 4 or above, a benchmark often considered a 'pass' by many universities. This statistic indicates that with diligent effort and dedication, the majority of students can succeed in this course.

We spoke with an experienced IB History tutor who said:

"History IBDP is an excellent course for students who are interested in understanding the world around them and how it has developed over time. It requires students to think deeply about complex historical events and develop the skills needed to analyse information from a variety of sources. The course also emphasises the importance of critical thinking, which is essential for success in any field. As a teacher, I have seen many students develop a passion for history and go on to study similar subjects at university."

Therefore, if you are interested in history, don't hesitate in picking this subject for your IB. Before you do so, however, be sure to fully grasp the IB History syllabus, which we'll dive into shortly.

IB History SL & HL grade distributions in 2024

The IB History syllabus (2025)

The International Baccalaureate (IB) History Diploma Programme offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to provide students with an in-depth understanding of historical events and their impacts on the modern world. The syllabus is structured into two levels: Standard Level (SL) and Higher Level (HL), each with specific components and requirements.

Syllabus Structure

Prescribed Subjects (One to be studied):

• Military Leaders
• Conquest and Its Impact
• The Move to Global War
• Rights and Protest
• Conflict and Intervention

World History Topics (Two to be studied):

• Society and Economy (750–1400)
• Causes and Effects of Wars (750–1500)
• Dynasties and Rulers (750–1500)
• Societies in Transition (1400–1700)
• Early Modern States (1450–1789)
• Causes and Effects of Early Modern Wars (1500–1750)
• Origins, Development, and Impact of Industrialization (1750–2005)
• Independence Movements (1800–2000)
• Emergence and Development of Democratic States (1848–2000)
• Authoritarian States (20th Century)
• Causes and Effects of 20th-Century Wars
• The Cold War: Superpower Tensions and Rivalries (20th Century)

Higher Level Options: Depth Studies (HL Only, One to be studied):

• History of Africa and the Middle East
• History of the Americas
• History of Asia and Oceania
• History of Europe

Internal Assessment (SL and HL):

• Historical Investigation

Assessment Overview

Highlights

• The syllabus emphasizes a comparative and multi-perspective approach to history, encouraging the study of various types of history, including political, economic, social, and cultural aspects.
• Students are required to study and compare examples from different regions of the world, fostering international-mindedness.
• The course places a strong emphasis on developing critical thinking skills and understanding multiple interpretations of historical events.

For the most current information and detailed guidance, please refer to the official IB History guide.

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

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

IB History vs A-Level History

One of the main differences between IB History and A-Level History is the scope and structure of the syllabus. IB History covers a broad range of historical topics, focusing on global perspectives, critical thinking, and analysis, whereas A-Level syllabus is more specialized, concentrating on specific historical periods and events.

Syllabus Comparison

Which is More Difficult: IB or A-Level History?

Both qualifications demand a strong grasp of historical events and the ability to construct analytical arguments. However, IB History is often considered more challenging due to:

• A wider range of topics, requiring students to retain and synthesize global historical knowledge.
• A greater emphasis on source evaluation, historical perspectives, and independent research.
• A rigorous internal assessment (IA), where students conduct an original historical investigation.

Despite the challenge, top grades are difficult to achieve in both:

• IB History HL: Only 2.9% of students achieved a 7 in 2024.
• A-Level History: Just 9.3% of students secured an A* in the same year.

Number and mean grades of IB History Candidates in 2024

IB & A-Level History Tutors to Help You Succeed

Our experienced IB History tutors and A-Level History tutors can help you navigate the complexities of both curriculums, enhancing your understanding and preparation for exams. Our IB English tutors and A-Level English tutors can also help you with writing essays which are an important component of the History exams.

For a further in-depth comparison for all subjects, read IB Vs A-Levels - A Comprehensive Guide.

What level of IB History should you choose?

Choosing between IB History SL and HL is a crucial decision that depends on your academic strengths, interests, and future aspirations. Below are key factors to consider when deciding which level is right for you.

Key Differences Between IB History SL and HL

Factors to Consider When Choosing SL or HL

• Interest in History: If you enjoy history and are willing to engage in extensive reading, writing, and analysis, HL may be the better choice. SL is a good option for students who want to study history without the added workload of HL.
• Future Academic & Career Goals: HL is recommended for students planning to study history, politics, international relations, or law at university. Some competitive universities (e.g., Oxbridge, Ivy League) may prefer HL for history-related degrees. If history is not a major part of your future studies, SL is generally sufficient.
• Difficulty Level & Workload: HL is more demanding, requiring additional essays, case studies, and an extra exam paper. However, SL still requires strong analytical skills and is not an "easy" option.

University Requirements for IB History

If you are applying to UK universities as an IB student or applying to US universities as an IB student, check their specific entry requirements before selecting SL or HL. For example:

• The majority of successful applicants to Cambridge University for History took IB History HL.
• Some competitive universities may require HL for related degrees such as law or international relations.
• For students applying to non-history degrees, SL is generally acceptable but always verify university requirements.

For more on university admission requirements, check out our articles such as Oxford University Admission Requirements and Cambridge University Admission Requirements.

Choosing SL or HL depends on your strengths, interests, and academic goals. If you love history and are prepared for a rigorous workload, HL is the way to go. If you want a balanced IB subject combination while still developing analytical skills, SL is a great option.

📌 Still unsure? Our IB History tutors can help you navigate your decision and provide expert guidance to excel in either SL or HL.

IB History grading system and exam format (2025)

The History course is graded on a scale of 1-7 as with all DP subjects, with a score of 7 being the highest. The final grade is determined by combining the scores from the internal assessment (IA) and the external assessments.

Here's a breakdown of the assessments for both Standard Level and Higher Level courses, including the percentage of the total grade for each paper:

Standard Level (SL):

Higher Level (HL):

Internal Assessment (IA):

The IA is a significant component for both SL and HL students, requiring them to conduct an independent historical investigation. This project allows students to delve deeply into a historical topic of personal interest, fostering skills in research, analysis, and critical thinking. For more on the IA, scroll down to read our section dedicated to this topic.

Key Updates for 2025:

• Prescribed Subjects: The syllabus now includes five prescribed subjects, each consisting of two cross-regional case studies. Students are required to study one prescribed subject.
• World History Topics: Both SL and HL students study two world history topics from a selection of twelve, promoting a comparative and multi-perspective approach to history.
• HL Options (Depth Studies): HL students undertake an additional depth study, choosing one from four regional options, allowing for a more detailed exploration of specific historical contexts.

These updates aim to provide a more comprehensive and globally focused understanding of history, encouraging students to engage with multiple perspectives and develop critical analytical skills.

For detailed information on the updated syllabus and assessment criteria, please refer to the official IB History guide. If you're curious about the IB Exam Schedule 2025, make sure to check out our separate article.

What is a good IB History score?

In the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme, subjects are graded on a scale from 1 to 7, with 7 being the highest possible score. The global average score across all subjects in the May 2024 session was approximately 4.7.

Benchmarking Your IB History Score:

• Score of 5: Slightly above the global average, indicating a competent understanding of historical concepts and analytical skills.
• Score of 6: Demonstrates a strong grasp of the subject, reflecting well-developed critical thinking and the ability to effectively analyze and interpret historical sources.
• Score of 7: Represents an excellent performance, showcasing exceptional analytical abilities, comprehensive knowledge, and superior communication of historical arguments.

Implications for University Admissions:

For students aiming to pursue history or related fields at the university level, achieving a score of 6 or 7 in IB History is advantageous. Competitive programs often prefer applicants with high scores in relevant subjects, as it reflects readiness for rigorous academic challenges.

Key Skills for High Achievement:

To attain a top score in IB History, focus on developing the following skills:

• Analytical Thinking: Critically assess historical events, considering multiple perspectives and underlying causes.
• Source Evaluation: Effectively analyze and evaluate primary and secondary sources, assessing their origin, purpose, value, and limitations.
• Argumentation: Construct coherent and persuasive historical arguments, supported by relevant evidence.
• Communication: Articulate ideas clearly and concisely in both written and oral forms, adhering to formal academic standards.

While achieving a high score in IB History is beneficial for university admissions and future career prospects, it is equally important to cultivate a deep understanding of historical concepts and hone critical thinking skills. These competencies not only contribute to academic success but also prepare students for informed and engaged citizenship.

How to revise and get a 7 in IB History?

IB History is a demanding yet rewarding subject that requires strong analytical skills, structured revision strategies, and effective exam techniques. Here are expert-backed tips from top IB History tutors to help you excel and achieve a 7.

1. Master the IB History Syllabus

• Familiarize yourself with the prescribed subjects, world history topics, and depth studies.
• Use the IB History guide to understand the assessment objectives and mark schemes.
• Focus on themes, historiographical debates, and connections between historical events rather than memorizing isolated facts.

2. Develop Strong Essay-Writing Skills

• Learn how to construct clear, well-structured arguments that directly answer the question.
• Use the PEEL (Point, Evidence, Explanation, Link) or DEAL (Define, Explain, Apply, Link) method to structure your paragraphs effectively.
• Incorporate historical evidence, specific examples, and historiography (views of different historians).

3. Perfect Source Analysis for Paper 1

• Use OPVL (Origin, Purpose, Value, Limitation) to evaluate primary and secondary sources.
• Compare different perspectives and consider bias, reliability, and historical context.
• Practice under timed conditions to analyze sources quickly and efficiently.

4. Revise Actively, Not Passively

• Use flashcards for key dates, events, and historians' viewpoints.
• Use effective revision notes such as IB History Q&A Revision Notes to remember key historical events using the active recall technique.
• Create mind maps to visualize connections between themes and time periods.
• Teach the material to someone else—this forces you to simplify complex concepts and fill in gaps in knowledge.

5. Practice Past Papers & Mark Your Own Work

• Complete past IB History exam questions under timed conditions.
• Use official IB mark schemes to self-assess your essays.
• Identify weak areas and refine your technique based on examiner feedback.

6. Stay Organized and Plan Your Revision

• Use a revision schedule that breaks down topics into manageable sections.
• Keep a summary sheet for each historical theme with key dates, events, and arguments.
• Track your progress by setting weekly revision goals.

7. Think Like a Historian: Develop Critical Thinking Skills

• Avoid one-sided arguments—acknowledge multiple perspectives.
• Ask yourself “Why did this event happen?” and “What were the consequences?”
• Engage with different historical interpretations (e.g., Marxist, liberal, revisionist).

By mastering the syllabus, honing essay-writing skills, actively revising, and practicing past papers, you can maximize your chances of securing a 7 in IB History. Consistency is key—start early and stay disciplined!

🔹 Need expert guidance? Our IB History tutors can help you refine your essay technique, analyze sources effectively, and develop top-level historical arguments.

Overview of IB History internal assessment (2025)

The Internal Assessment (IA) is a pivotal component of the IB History curriculum, contributing 20% to the final grade for both Standard Level (SL) and Higher Level (HL) students. This assessment offers students the opportunity to engage in independent research on a historical topic of personal interest, fostering the development of essential skills such as research methodology, critical analysis, and coherent argumentation.

Key Features of the 2025 IA

IB History IA Assessment Criteria (2025)

Steps to Succeed in the IB History IA

1. Choose a Strong Research Question – Ensure your question is focused, specific, and researchable within the word limit.
2. Gather & Evaluate Sources – Use OPVL (Origin, Purpose, Value, Limitation) to assess source reliability.
3. Structure Your IA Effectively – Organize into Introduction, Investigation, and Reflection for clarity.
4. Write Concisely & Critically – Present a clear historical argument with evidence-based analysis.
5. Follow Citation Rules – Use proper referencing (e.g., Chicago style or MLA) and include a bibliography.
6. Self-Reflect – Discuss the limitations of your research and the complexities of historical interpretation.

A well-researched, well-structured IA can significantly boost your overall IB History grade. By engaging with primary sources, evaluating historical perspectives, and demonstrating critical analysis, students can maximize their score and develop essential skills for university-level research. To learn more and get example topics, read our article: IB History IA: 70 Examples and Guidance (2025). For more expert guidance, seek out help from IB History Tutors.

Top resources for IB History preparation

Preparing for IB History exams can be challenging, but with the right resources, you can feel more confident and well-prepared. Here are some top resources to help you:

• The IB History Study Guide by Oxford University Press is an excellent resource for students who want to excel in their exams. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the IB History syllabus, with detailed explanations and examples for each topic. The guide also includes practice questions and tips for exam preparation.
• BBC History Magazine: This is a is a great resource for students who want to learn more about historical events and concepts. The magazine covers a wide range of topics and provides engaging articles, interviews, and reviews. The magazine also offers a range of online resources, including podcasts, videos, and quizzes.
• Khan Academy: Khan Academy offers a range of educational resources for students, including videos, articles, and practice questions. Their History resources cover a wide range of topics and provide clear explanations and examples.
• Mr. Allsop's History: A website created by a UK-based history teacher that offers a range of resources for IB History students, including revision guides, podcasts, and videos. The website covers all six themes of the IB History syllabus and provides clear explanations and examples.

By using these top resources for IB History preparation, you can feel more confident and well-prepared for your exams.

Exploring career opportunities with IB History

IB History is a valuable subject that can prepare students for a variety of career paths. Here are some of the career opportunities that IB History graduates can pursue:

• Education: IB History provides students with skills in critical thinking, research, analysis, and communication, which are essential for a career in teaching. Graduates can pursue careers as history IB tutors, teachers, professors, or academic researchers.
• Law: IB History equips students with an understanding of legal systems and political structures, making it an ideal background for those interested in pursuing a career in law. Graduates can pursue careers in areas such as human rights law, international law, or constitutional law.
• Politics: IB History provides students with a deep understanding of political systems, global events, and international relations. Graduates can pursue careers in areas such as diplomacy, policy development, or public service.
• Journalism: IB History graduates can pursue a career in journalism, where they can use their research and communication skills to investigate and report on historical events and current affairs. Graduates can work as reporters, correspondents, or editors for print, digital, or broadcast media outlets.
• Business: IB History provides students with a broad understanding of social, cultural, and economic trends, making it a valuable background for those interested in pursuing a career in business. Graduates can pursue careers in areas such as marketing, consulting, or management.

Conclusion

IB History is a challenging yet rewarding subject that develops critical thinking, research, and analytical skills, essential for academic and professional success. By studying historical events and perspectives, students gain a deeper understanding of global issues and the complexities of human behavior. With the right strategies and resources, students can master IB History, achieve top grades, and develop lifelong skills that are valuable in any field.