IB DP mocks are school-run trial exams before the May (or November) session — used to stress-test timing, expose gaps across HL and SL subjects, and inform predicted grades for university applications. They sit alongside Internal Assessment (IA) deadlines, so mock season can feel crowded; planning matters.

For A Level mocks, see A Level mocks guide. For IGCSE, see IGCSE mock exams 2026 — we do not duplicate IGCSE advice here.

What IB mocks usually include

Element	Notes
Past or specimen papers	Often prior session papers under timed conditions
HL vs SL	Different papers and mark expectations — confirm yours
Mixed components	Some schools mock Paper 1/2 only; others add Paper 3 where applicable
Predicted grades	Teacher judgment using mocks, IA, classwork — not mock % alone

Mocks do not replace IA completion — universities and the IB look at both.

How to prepare for IB DP mocks

1. Protect IA progress

Block time for IA drafts before mock cramming. A strong mock with a missing IA draft still hurts predicted-grade confidence.

2. Timed past papers per subject

Use timed past-paper practice (IB section) and the Past Paper Exam Timer.

• HL subjects — longer papers; build stamina early.
• Sciences — data questions + extended responses.
• Maths AA/AI — non-calculator discipline where required.
• Essay subjects — plan before writing (History, English, TOK-linked skills).

3. Read IB markbands honestly

IB marks use band descriptors — after mocks, compare scripts to band language, not just “I knew the content”.

4. Predicted grades vs mock %

School predicted grades for UCAS/common app are holistic. Mock percentages map loosely to final grades — see what grade am I on track for (IB section) and avoid panic from one paper.

After IB mocks

• List three repeatable errors per subject (timing, command terms, missing evaluation).
• Schedule one timed paper per week until finals on weakest subject only.
• Use review mark schemes after mocks — applies across curricula.
• IB tuition for HL topics that mocks exposed.

Frequently asked questions

When are IB DP mocks?

Most schools run November–March mocks before May exams; November-session schools mirror with spring mocks — check your coordinator.

Do IB mocks affect predicted grades?

Yes, alongside IA and class evidence — not as the only input.

HL vs SL mock prep?

HL needs deeper content and longer papers — do not use SL-only revision for HL mocks.

Are IB mocks the same as final exams?

Same style and rubrics if your school uses real past papers; conditions should mirror finals.

A Level vs IB mocks?

Different structures — use A Level mocks or this guide, not both mixed.

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