Introduction
Many IB students ask the same question when exam stress rises:
“Can IB exams be rescheduled?”
The short answer is: sometimes — but only in very specific situations.
This article explains:
- When IB exams can be rescheduled
- When they cannot
- Who makes the decision
- What students should expect
Understanding the rules early prevents unnecessary stress.
Who Controls IB Exam Scheduling?
IB exam schedules are controlled by:
- The International Baccalaureate
- Your school’s IB coordinator
Students cannot request changes directly.
All requests go through the school and must meet IB criteria.
When IB Exams Can Be Rescheduled
The IB may allow rescheduling in cases such as:
- Direct exam clashes
- Serious medical emergencies
- Exceptional circumstances approved by the IB
Even then:
- Exams are taken under strict supervision
- Security rules are enforced
- Timing is tightly controlled
Rescheduling is an exception, not a flexible option.
When IB Exams Cannot Be Rescheduled
IB exams will not be rescheduled for:
- Stress or anxiety alone
- Feeling unprepared
- Poor sleep
- Travel plans
- Personal convenience
Fatigue and pressure are expected parts of the exam period.
What Rescheduling Actually Looks Like
If an exam is rescheduled:
- You may wait under supervision
- You may sit one exam later than others
- You will not have access to notes or devices
This is done to protect fairness and exam integrity.
The Biggest Misunderstanding Students Have
Many students believe:
“If it’s hard, it can be moved.”
This is not true.
The IB prioritises:
- Global fairness
- Exam security
- Equal conditions
Difficulty alone is never a reason for rescheduling.
How to Prepare Knowing Exams Won’t Move
The best strategy is assumption-based planning.
Students should:
- Assume exams will run as scheduled
- Finish heavy revision early
- Build resilience for long exam periods
- Focus on energy management
Planning removes the need for exceptions.
Using the RevisionDojo Study Planner
The RevisionDojo Study Planner helps students:
- Plan around fixed exam schedules
- Avoid relying on last-minute changes
- Prepare early and consistently
- Reduce panic when pressure rises
Plan with certainty here:
https://www.revisiondojo.com/study-planner
RevisionDojo Call to Action
IB exams are designed to be fixed — and that’s why planning matters so much.
Use the RevisionDojo Study Planner to:
- Prepare early
- Reduce stress
- Stay in control
Start planning here:
https://www.revisiondojo.com/study-planner
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I ask for my IB exam to be moved?
No. Only schools can submit requests, and only under exceptional circumstances.
Will stress or anxiety allow rescheduling?
No. These are not considered valid reasons on their own.
Are rescheduled exams easier or marked differently?
No. All exams are marked the same way regardless of scheduling.
What should I do if I’m worried about exam timing?
Plan early and assume exams will not change. This removes uncertainty.
