IB Computer Science SL
The Standard Level of IB Computer Science. Covers system fundamentals, computer organization, networks, and computational thinking, alongside object-oriented programming and a solo software-development project.
Difficulty
Challenging
Popularity
55%
Past questions
3
Study tips
5
Key Topics
Exam Format & Dates
May & November, annually
2 hours 30 minutes
1–7 scale (IB)
4 = passing | 6–7 = excellent
| Section | Duration | Content | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paper 1 | ~1 hour | Multiple choice + data | 36% |
| Paper 2 | 1½ – 2½ hours | Short & extended response | 44% |
| Internal Assessment | Coursework | Scientific investigation | 20% |
Exam Breakdown & Insights
Difficulty · Demanding
Popularity score
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Study Tips
- 1
Apply concepts to real-world scenarios; application questions dominate modern exams.
- 2
Work through past papers under timed conditions — familiarity with question style is half the battle.
- 3
Teach the material to someone else (even an imaginary student) — explaining exposes weak spots fast.
- 4
Past papers with mark schemes are the single best IB revision resource — learn exactly how marks are allocated.
- 5
Do not neglect your Internal Assessment: it is a significant chunk of your grade that you control before exam day.
Past Exam Questions
Define the key terms associated with System Fundamentals and explain why they matter in this subject.
Apply the concept of Computer Organization to a realistic scenario, explaining your reasoning step by step.
Evaluate the strengths and limitations of Networks, using evidence to support a clear, balanced conclusion.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ✕
Never practicing under timed conditions before the real exam.
- ✕
Confusing similar key terms that examiners deliberately test against each other.
- ✕
Memorizing definitions without practicing application to scenarios.
Official Resources
Free, official study material for IB Computer Science SL — always start with the source your exam board publishes.
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