IB Psychology: A Complete Guide (2025)

In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the world of IB Psychology, exploring its importance, syllabus, and exam format. Whether you're considering studying psychology in the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum or simply want to gain a deeper understanding of the subject as part of the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP), this guide will provide you with valuable insights and resources. From deciphering the IB Psychology grading system to mastering revision techniques that can help you achieve a top score, we've got you covered. So, let's embark on this intriguing journey into the realm of IB Psychology and discover the exciting opportunities it can unlock for your future.

2025 Exam Timetable for IB Psychology

The International Baccalaureate (IB) May 2025 examination session for Psychology is scheduled as follows:​

Wednesday, May 7, 2025:

• Afternoon Session: Psychology HL Paper 1 (2 hours) and Psychology SL Paper 1 (2 hours)​

Thursday, May 8, 2025:

• Morning Session: Psychology HL Paper 2 (2 hours), Psychology HL Paper 3 (1 hour), and Psychology SL Paper 2 (1 hour)​

Please note that examination start times may vary depending on your school's exam zone. It's essential to confirm the exact times with your school's IB coordinator. Check out IB Exam Schedule 2025 for more subjects!

Why study IB Psychology?

Psychology is the scientific study of human behaviour and the mind, and it plays a crucial role in understanding ourselves and others. But why should high school students specifically consider studying IB Psychology?

1. Rigorous skills training

Firstly, IB Psychology offers a rigorous and comprehensive curriculum that equips students with valuable knowledge and skills applicable to various career paths. According to the British Psychological Society, psychology graduates possess transferable skills such as critical thinking, data analysis, and communication, which are highly sought after in today's job market.

Studying psychology can have a positive impact on academic performance in other subjects. Research conducted by the American Psychological Association reveals that students who study psychology often demonstrate improved writing skills, problem-solving abilities, and enhanced understanding of human behaviour, which can benefit them across multiple disciplines.

2. Growing professional demand

Another reason to study IB Psychology is the growing demand for professionals in the field. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment opportunities in psychology have been projected to increase by 14% between 2019 and 2029, faster than the average for all occupations. This indicates a promising job market for psychology graduates in the future.

3. Solid foundation for an academic career

In addition, studying IB Psychology provides students with a solid foundation for further academic pursuits in psychology at the undergraduate level. Many universities consider psychology as a desirable subject for admission, and prior knowledge gained through IB Psychology can give students a competitive edge during the application process.

In conclusion, studying IB Psychology offers numerous benefits, including transferable skills, improved academic performance, and promising career prospects. It lays the groundwork for future academic pursuits and provides a deeper understanding of human behaviour. So, if you have an interest in unraveling the complexities of the mind, IB Psychology is an excellent choice for your academic journey.

Is IB Psychology hard?

Have you ever wondered: How hard is IB Psychology? While the level of difficulty may vary for each individual, statistics can offer some general insights: In 2024, the average grades for Psychology HL and SL were 4.8 and 4.4 respectively, which are slightly lower than the average score of 4.9 across all IB subjects that year. This means that, in general, IB Psychology can be considered to be a harder subject than others.

IB Psychology Mean Grade Comparison (2024)

That said, here are a few common factors that contribute to and affect the perceived difficulty of IB Psychology:

• Complexity of the subject matter: Psychology encompasses a wide range of topics, including cognitive processes, abnormal behaviour, mental disorders, and social influence, requiring students to grasp various theories, concepts, and research methodologies.
• Individual interests and strengths: Students who have a genuine passion for understanding human behaviour and enjoy critical thinking may find the subject more engaging and manageable.

For students who find the course content too complex or that it doesn't play to their strengths, there are various resources available:

• Online platforms: Oxford Study Courses and IB Revision Platform offer comprehensive study materials, practice exams, and guidance from experienced educators.
• IB Psychology Tutor: Proper guidance and effective study techniques can be tricky to master. With professional tutors, however, students can navigate these complexities much more easily.
• Support Groups: Collaborating with classmates, forming study groups, and seeking assistance from teachers can all enhance the learning experience.

In conclusion, while IB Psychology can present challenges, it is important to remember that the IBDP is designed to be rigorous and academically demanding. The rewards of studying IB Psychology, however, is very much worth the effort. According to a study conducted by the International Baccalaureate Organisation, students who complete the IB Diploma Programme tend to have higher acceptance rates into top-tier universities compared to their non-IB counterparts. With dedication, effective study strategies, and access to resources, students can overcome whatever difficulties they are faced with.

For more information on the Hardest IB Subjects and Easiest IB Subjects, check out our separate articles to learn more.

IB Psychology Syllabus (2025)

​The IB Psychology course is undergoing significant updates, with the new curriculum set to launch in February 2025 for first teaching in August 2025, and first assessments scheduled for May 2027. This revamped syllabus emphasises a concept-based approach, integrating contemporary psychological theories and practices to enhance students' understanding of human behaviour and mental processes. Check out the latest subject brief here.

IB Psychology Curriculum Model

Following the 2024 curriculum update, the IB Psychology course is now framed through the "Concepts, content and contexts" framework. This framework organises learning around three interrelated elements:

• Concepts: Fundamental psychological ideas such as identity, cognition, and culture, which provide a broad understanding of human behaviour.
• Content: Theories, studies, and research methods that illustrate psychological principles and provide empirical support for key concepts.
• Contexts: Real-world applications in areas like mental health, learning, and human relationships, allowing students to analyse behaviour in diverse settings.

This framework encourages critical thinking, interdisciplinary connections, and the application of psychological knowledge to practical and global issues.

Curriculum model overview (2024)

For instance, here are some core concepts and approaches that you can expect to learn about:

1. Definition and Scope of Psychology
   1. The scientific study of behaviour and mental processes.
   2. Historical evolution of psychology, covering major schools of thought such as structuralism, functionalism, psychoanalysis, behaviourism, humanism, and cognitive psychology.
2. Research Methods in Psychology
   1. Qualitative & Quantitative Approaches:
      1. Sampling techniques and reflexivity in research.
      2. Ethical considerations in psychological research.
   2. Research Designs:
      1. Experiments (true, quasi, and field experiments).
      2. Observations (naturalistic, controlled, covert, and overt).
      3. Interviews (structured, semi-structured, and unstructured).
      4. Surveys and questionnaires.
   3. Data Analysis:
      1. Descriptive and inferential statistics.
      2. Thematic analysis in qualitative research.
3. Approaches to Understanding Behaviour
   1. Biological Approach
   2. Cognitive Approach
   3. Sociocultural Approach

IB Psychology Assessment Structure

IB Psychology's assessment structure was also changed due to the curriculum update. In summary, the assessment structure can be outlined below:

Standard Level (SL):

• External Assessment:
  • Short-answer questions (SAQs) on core approaches.
  • Extended response questions (ERQs) on specific topics.
• No Internal Assessment:
  • The research component has been removed for SL students.

Higher Level (HL):

• External Assessment:
  • Similar to SL but with additional content and depth.
• Internal Assessment:
  • A research proposal investigating an aspect of psychology.
  • Students explore real-world applications of psychological concepts.

For more tips on how to ace your IB Psychology IA, check out IB Psychology IA: 60 Examples and Guidance (2025).

IB Psychology Assessment Structure SL

IB Psychology Assessment Structure HL

IB Psychology Research Practicals

Higher Level (HL) students must complete Research Practicals, which involve conducting psychological research in real-world contexts. These practicals are designed to develop students’ research skills, critical thinking, and ethical awareness.

Students engage in research across four key contexts:

• Health and Well-being – Conducting structured, semi-structured, or focus group interviews with at least one participant (or 3-8 in focus groups).
• Human Development – Performing observations (naturalistic, controlled, overt, or covert) to examine developmental behaviours.
• Human Relationships – Designing and administering surveys or questionnaires to at least ten participants to explore interpersonal dynamics.
• Learning and Cognition – Conducting experiments (true or quasi-experiments) with a minimum of five participants to study cognitive processes.

For a detailed overview of the IB Psychology syllabus, including specific topics and assessment components, refer to the latest official IB Psychology guide. It provides comprehensive information that can help students and educators navigate the course successfully.

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

📚 View IB Psychology SL Practice Questions
📚 View IB Psychology HL Practice Questions
📚 View IB Psychology SL Study Notes
📚 View IB Psychology HL Study Notes
📚 View IB Psychology SL Past Papers
📚 View IB Psychology HL Past Papers

IB Psychology vs A-Level Psychology

Choosing between IB Psychology and A-Level Psychology can be a significant decision for high school students interested in studying psychology. While both qualifications offer an in-depth study of the subject, there are notable differences to consider:

• Structure and duration: A-Level Psychology typically spans two years and involves studying a smaller number of topics in greater depth. On the other hand, IB Psychology is part of the broader International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme, which covers a range of subjects and requires a two-year commitment.
• Assessment format: A-Level Psychology is typically assessed through written exams at the end of the course, with some practical components. In contrast, IB Psychology incorporates both internal and external assessments. Internal assessments involve research projects and investigations, while external assessments consist of written exams that assess students' knowledge and analytical skills.
• International recognition: The International Baccalaureate (IB) qualification is recognised and valued by universities worldwide, making it an advantageous choice for students aspiring to study abroad. A-Level qualifications, on the other hand, are primarily recognised within the UK education system.

In terms of exam performance in 2024, 5.7% of IB Psychology HL students achieved a score of 7/7, compared to 8.3% of A-Level Psychology students achieving the top grade of an A*. This highlights that IB Psychology may be harder to achieve a higher grade compared to A-level Psychology.

Grade Distribution of IB Psychology HL and SL in 2024

Number of Students Taking IB Psychology HL vs SL in 2024

To enable students make an informed decision, it is advisable to consider individual learning preferences, future academic goals, and university entry requirements. Consulting with teachers, career advisors, and university admissions offices can provide valuable insights into the specific requirements and advantages of each qualification.

Ultimately, whether you choose IB Psychology or A-Level Psychology, both qualifications can provide a solid foundation in the study of psychology and open doors to further academic and career opportunities. For more information on the differences between these two qualifications, read our article comparing the IB and A-levels.

Should you choose IB Psychology SL or HL?

Deciding between IB Psychology Standard Level (SL) and Higher Level (HL) can be challenging. Your choice should be based on your interests, career goals, and academic strengths.

IB Psychology SL

IB Psychology SL covers the core areas and key topics of the syllabus, providing a strong foundation in the subject. With a lower workload compared to HL, it’s ideal for students who:

• Have a general interest in psychology.
• Want to complement other subjects without overwhelming their schedule.
• Prefer a lighter academic commitment while still gaining valuable psychological insights.

IB Psychology HL

IB Psychology HL goes beyond the basics, covering additional topics and requiring more instructional hours. It’s best suited for students who:

• Are passionate about psychology and eager to explore it in depth.
• Plan to study psychology or related fields at university.
• Want to challenge themselves academically and gain a more comprehensive understanding.

University Considerations

Some universities have specific entry requirements for psychology-related degrees. While SL may suffice for some courses, others might prefer or require HL. Always check the admissions criteria of your target universities to ensure your choice aligns with their expectations. For instance, you can check out King's College London (KCL) Admission Requirements and London School of Economics (LSE) Admission Requirements if those are the universities you're targeting.

Which One Should You Pick?

Both SL and HL offer valuable skills and insights, so the best choice depends on your personal interests and study goals. Instead of choosing based on difficulty, consider:

• Your future aspirations.
• Your academic workload and ability to balance subjects.
• Whether you’ll enjoy the additional depth and complexity of HL.

In the end, both levels provide a rewarding learning experience. Choose the one that aligns best with your strengths, interests, and future plans!

IB Psychology Grading System

The International Baccalaureate (IB) employs a grading scale from 1 to 7 for each subject, and IB Psychology is no exception. The IB Grading Scale is as follows:

• 7: Excellent
• 6: Very Good
• 5: Good
• 4: Satisfactory
• 3: Mediocre
• 2: Poor
• 1: Very Poor

To be awarded the IB Diploma, students must:

• Accumulate a minimum of 24 points across all their subjects, including both internal assessment (IA) and external assessments (EAs).
• Successfully complete the core components: Theory of Knowledge (TOK), the Extended Essay (EE), and Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS).

To achieve a top score of 7 in IB Psychology, it is crucial to demonstrate a deep understanding of the subject, apply critical thinking skills effectively, and communicate ideas clearly and coherently. First of all, however, students must understand the exam format to ace the exams.

IB Psychology Exam Format (2025)

The IB Psychology course is undergoing significant changes, with a new curriculum set to be introduced for first teaching in August 2025 and first assessment in May 2027.This section outlines the existing exam format applicable up to May 2026 and provides an overview of the forthcoming changes effective from May 2027.​

IB Psychology Current Exam Format (Up to May 2026)

Standard Level (SL):

• Paper 1: Duration of 2 hours, comprising three short-answer questions and one essay question.​
• Paper 2: Duration of 2 hours, involving one essay question from a choice of three, focusing on one of the optional topics.​
• Internal Assessment: An experimental study conducted by the student, accounting for 20% of the final grade.

Higher Level (HL):

• Paper 1: Same structure as SL, with a duration of 2 hours.
• Paper 2: Duration of 2 hours, requiring two essay questions from a choice of six, covering two optional topics.
• Paper 3: Duration of 1 hour, consisting of three short-answer questions on approaches to research.​
• Internal Assessment: Similar to SL, involving an experimental study, contributing 20% to the final grade.

IB Psychology New Curriculum (From May 2027)

The IB has announced a revised DP Psychology curriculum, with first teaching commencing in August 2025 and first assessments in May 2027. Key changes include:​

• Conceptual Framework: The new curriculum emphasises understanding psychological concepts, content, and contexts, moving away from rote memorisation towards application and critical thinking.​
• Research Proposal: The internal assessment will shift from conducting experimental studies to developing research proposals, aiming to enhance students' research planning and analytical skills.
• HL Extensions: Higher Level students will explore additional topics, including the role of culture, motivation, technology in shaping behaviour, and data analysis and interpretation.

After the curriculum reform, the exam format would look like this:

Standard Level (SL):

• Paper 1: Duration of 1.5 hours, comprising four short-answer questions and two extended response questions.​
• Paper 2: Duration of 1.5 hours, involving four compulsory questions that focus on the class practicals and one evaluation on unseen research studies.
• Internal Assessment/Research proposal: Students are required to develop a research proposal using one of the research methods used in the class practical. This accounts for 30% of the final grade.

Higher Level (HL):

• Paper 1: Same structure as SL.
• Paper 2: Same structure as SL.
• Paper 3: Duration of 1.75 hours, consisting of four source-based questions from one of the HL extensions.
• Internal Assessment: Similar to SL, involving an experimental study, contributing 20% to the final grade.

Recommendations for Students

• Stay Informed: Regularly consult the IB's official communications for updates on curriculum changes and assessment details.​

What is a good IB Psychology score?

Achieving a good IB Psychology score is a goal for many students. While the definition of a "good" score may vary and depends on individual aspirations and university requirements, it is helpful to understand the context of IB scores and how they are perceived by universities.

In the IB Diploma Programme, scores range from 1 to 7, with 7 being the highest attainable score. Universities often consider a score of 6 or 7 as an indicator of strong performance in a subject. However, universities may also take into account the average IB scores of students. According to the International Baccalaureate Organization, the global average score in 2024 was 30.3 points. However, the average score can vary significantly across countries and regions. For example, data from the IB shows that in 2024, the average score in the United Kingdom was 34.67 points. This means that highly selective UK universities may adjust their admission requirements upwards.

Admission requirements can also differ among universities. It is crucial to research the specific requirements and expectations of universities or programs of interest. Some universities may publish their minimum entry requirements, such as in Oxford University Admission Requirements and Cambridge University Admission Requirements. This can help in setting realistic goals and understanding the competitiveness of the application process.

Ultimately, a "good" IB Psychology score is one that reflects strong knowledge and understanding of the subject and aligns with the requirements and expectations of the universities or programs. Admission decisions boil down to a holistic evaluation of a student's overall IB results, so it is crucial that students achieve as highly as possible in each and every single subject.

How to revise and get a 7 in IB Psychology?

Securing a 7 in IB Psychology requires effective revision strategies and a thorough understanding of the course content. Here are some tips recommended by expert IB Psychology tutors to help you maximise your chances of achieving the top score:

1. Start early and create a study plan: Begin revising well in advance to allow ample time for thorough coverage of the syllabus. Create a study plan that breaks down topics, allocates study time, and includes regular review sessions.

2. Understand the assessment criteria: Familiarise yourself with the IB Psychology assessment criteria. Ensure you have a clear understanding of the knowledge and skills required to excel in the exams and internal assessments.

3. Review course materials: Go through your class notes, textbooks, and study guides. Summarise key concepts, theories, and research studies. Use visual aids, such as mind maps or flashcards, to enhance your understanding and aid recall.

4. 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.

5. 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.

6. Seek support: Collaborate with classmates, form study groups, or seek guidance from your teacher or IB Psychology tutor. Exploring different perspectives and discussing challenging topics can enhance your learning experience.

7. Utilise online resources: Take advantage of online resources specifically tailored to IB Psychology revision. Websites like IB Psychology Revision and IB Documents offer study materials, revision guides, and practice questions.

Here is what Emma, a successful IB Psychology student had to say about her revision:

"Studying IB Psychology was a transformative experience for me. To ensure success, I actively participated in class discussions, asked questions, and sought clarification when needed. I also formed study groups with classmates, which allowed us to share perspectives, exchange study notes, and reinforce our understanding of key concepts. By embracing a proactive approach and staying motivated, I was able to achieve success in IB Psychology and develop a genuine passion for the subject."

Remember, achieving a 7 in IB Psychology requires consistent effort, dedication, and effective study strategies. By adopting these approaches and maintaining a positive mindset, you can optimise your chances of reaching your desired score.

Overview of IB Psychology internal assessment (2025)

The IB Psychology internal assessment (IA) is a significant component of the course, allowing students to apply their knowledge and skills in a practical context. Here is an overview of the IB Psychology IA:

1. Research project: The IA involves conducting a research project that explores a psychological phenomenon or question. Students have the opportunity to design their own experiments, surveys, or observations, collect data, and analyse the results.

2. Ethical considerations: It is crucial to consider ethical guidelines when planning and conducting the IA. Students must ensure the well-being and privacy of participants, obtain informed consent, and maintain confidentiality.

3. Assessment criteria: The IA is marked based on specific assessment criteria provided by the IB. These criteria evaluate the student's ability to formulate a research question, design an appropriate methodology, analyse data using appropriate statistical techniques, and communicate findings effectively.

4. Report writing: Students are required to write a research report following a specific format. The report should include an introduction, method, results, discussion, and conclusion. Clear and concise writing, appropriate use of psychological terminology, and accurate referencing are essential.

5. Internal assessment moderation: The IA is internally assessed by the school and then externally moderated by the IB. This ensures fairness and consistency in marking across different schools and regions.

6. Time management: Planning and managing time effectively throughout the IA process is crucial. Breaking down tasks into manageable chunks, setting deadlines, and seeking guidance from the teacher or supervisor can help students stay on track.

IB Psychology IA Curriculum Updates (2025)

The IB Psychology IA curriculum has undergone significant changes for first assessments in May 2027. Key updates include:

• IA Required for SL Students – Previously, only HL students had to submit an IA. From 2025, SL students must complete an IA proposal, emphasising research design rather than full experimentation.
• Focus on Research Proposals – The IA now centers on research proposals, encouraging students to plan a study rather than conduct an actual experiment.
• Class-Based Practicals for HL – HL students will engage in practicals (e.g., interviews, observations, and surveys) to develop their understanding of research methods.
• Integration into Four Key Contexts – Psychological research will be linked to the following themes:
  • Health and Well-being
  • Human Development
  • Human Relationships
  • Learning and Cognition
• Revised Assessment Model – SL students will complete two external exams and the IA proposal, while HL students will additionally complete a third exam on research approaches.

These updates reflect a shift towards conceptual understanding and real-world application, preparing students for higher education and professional research in psychology. To find out more tips and ideas for IB Psychology IA, read our article on IB Psychology IA: 60 Examples and Guidance (2025).

Top resources for IB Psychology preparation

Preparing for IB Psychology can be enhanced with the help of various resources that provide valuable study materials, practice questions, and guidance. Here are some top resources to support your preparation:

1. Oxford Study Courses - Oxford Study Courses offers online courses specifically tailored to IB subjects, including IB Psychology. These courses provide comprehensive study materials, interactive lessons, and expert guidance from experienced educators.

2. IB Documents -IB Docs is a platform that hosts a vast collection of past papers, study guides, and other resources for various IB subjects, including IB Psychology. These resources, such as IB Psychology Q&A Revision Notes, can be helpful for practicing exam-style questions and gaining familiarity with the assessment format.

3. IB Psychology Study Guide - A comprehensive resource that covers the entire IB Psychology syllabus. It provides in-depth explanations, case studies, and practice questions to support learning and revision.

Remember to utilise a combination of resources that suit your learning style and preferences. These resources can serve as valuable supplements to classroom instruction and self-study, enabling you to consolidate your knowledge, practice exam techniques, and approach the IB Psychology course with confidence.

Exploring career opportunities with IB Psychology

Studying IB Psychology opens up a wide range of career opportunities for graduates. The knowledge and skills acquired through the course can be applied to various fields. Here are some potential career paths to consider:

1. Psychology and Mental Health: IB Psychology provides a solid foundation for pursuing a career in clinical psychology, counselling, or mental health support. Graduates can work in hospitals, clinics, or private practices, helping individuals cope with mental health challenges and providing therapeutic interventions.

2. Research and Academia: Those interested in research can pursue careers in academic institutions, research organisations, or think tanks. They can contribute to advancing psychological knowledge through conducting studies, analysing data, and publishing research findings.

3. Human Resources: IB Psychology equips students with an understanding of human behaviour, which can be valuable in human resources roles. Graduates can work in areas such as talent acquisition, employee development, and organisational behaviour, assisting companies in building effective teams and promoting employee well-being.

4. Education and Teaching: IB Psychology graduates can pursue a career in education, teaching psychology at the high school or college level. They can share their knowledge, inspire students, and contribute to the development of future psychologists.

5. Social Work and Community Services: The understanding of human behaviour and societal influences gained in IB Psychology can be applied to social work and community services. Graduates can work in non-profit organisations, advocacy groups, or government agencies, assisting vulnerable populations and promoting social change.

6. Marketing and Consumer Behaviour: The insights into cognitive processes and social influences acquired in IB Psychology can be valuable in marketing and advertising. Graduates can work in market research, consumer behaviour analysis, or advertising agencies, helping businesses understand consumer motivations and preferences.

It is important to note that pursuing some careers in psychology may require further education and professional qualifications. Specialised areas such as clinical psychology or counselling often require postgraduate studies and licensing.

Conclusion

IB Psychology develops critical thinking, research skills, and a deeper understanding of human behaviour. Whether you pursue psychology as a career or simply want to expand your knowledge, this course equips you with valuable insights and transferable skills. With its rigorous curriculum and evolving exam structure, IB Psychology prepares students for higher education and diverse career paths. By using effective study techniques and the right resources, you can maximise your performance and achieve your goals. Ultimately, IB Psychology is a challenging yet rewarding subject that enhances analytical skills and broadens future opportunities.