23 Aug IB ESS Exams: Paper 1 and Paper 2 for SL & HL
IB ESS exams require a revision plan that matches your level. Use this guide to check the current Paper 1 and Paper 2 format before timed practice.
Reviewed 4 October 2026 · Current ESS SL and HL course, first assessment 2026.
ESS students take Paper 1 and Paper 2. Use the correct format for your level when planning revision or setting up a timed practice. This overview replaces the earlier mixed SL/HL figures on this page.
IB ESS exams: SL compared with HL
| Component | SL | HL |
|---|---|---|
| Paper 1 | 1 hour · 35 marks · 25% | 2 hours · 70 marks · 30% |
| Paper 2 | 2 hours · 60 marks · 50% | 2 hours 30 minutes · 80 marks · 50% |
| IA | 30 marks · 25% | 30 marks · 20% |
Source: official IB ESS guide, assessment outlines for first assessment 2026. Percentages show contribution to the final subject grade.
Paper 1: work with the case study evidence
Both levels analyse an unseen case study using the supplied resource booklet. All questions are compulsory. Practise connecting evidence across graphs, tables, photographs and text rather than simply repeating isolated facts.
Read the ESS Paper 1 preparation guide.
Paper 2: short answers, data and structured essays
Section A is worth 40 marks at both levels. SL students answer one structured essay from two options in Section B, worth 20 marks. HL students answer two from three, worth 40 marks in total.
Before writing, identify the command term, context and marks. Plan the longer responses, but keep enough time for the shorter and data-based tasks. Practise a full paper for your own level, not just favourite essay questions.
Explore Paper 2 strategies for SL and HL and command-term practice.
Using older papers
Older questions can be useful for overlapping content. Check each question against your current course before using it. Old essay choices, timings and mark allocations should not be treated as the current exam format.
See how to use ESS past papers.
Need help applying this to your ESS work?
Explore online IB ESS tutoring for SL and HL with Marija Maletz or request a free 20-minute trial. Bring your level, the question or topic you find difficult, and your availability.
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