International Relations
How states and other actors interact on the world stage: theories of IR, security, international political economy, organizations, and global issues.
Difficulty
Easy
Popularity
48%
Past questions
3
Study tips
5
Key Topics
Exam Format & Dates
School-determined (typically semester finals in December and May/June)
Typically 1.5–2 hours per final exam
Percentage / letter grade (A–F)
70% = passing | 90%+ = A
| Section | Duration | Content | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Papers / Essays | Coursework | 2–3 essays | 50% |
| Midterm & Final | ~2 hours each | Essay + short answer | 40% |
| Participation | Ongoing | Seminar discussion | 10% |
Exam Breakdown & Insights
Difficulty · Manageable
Popularity score
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Study Tips
- 1
Every claim needs specific evidence — names, dates, statistics, events. Vague generalizations score poorly.
- 2
Practice planning an essay in 5 minutes: thesis, three arguments, counter-argument, conclusion.
- 3
For source questions, always analyze origin, purpose, and audience — not just content.
- 4
Review class notes within 24 hours of each lesson — quick review dramatically improves retention.
- 5
Use homework as diagnostic practice: redo any problem you got wrong until it feels easy.
Past Exam Questions
Describe the key features of Realism & Liberalism, giving specific and accurate supporting detail.
Explain the main causes and consequences of Constructivism, showing how the factors connect to one another.
"Power & Security was the most significant turning point of its era." Assess the validity of this claim, weighing the evidence before reaching a judgement.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ✕
Describing sources instead of analyzing their origin, purpose, and reliability.
- ✕
Narrating events chronologically instead of building an argument that answers the question.
- ✕
Making claims without specific supporting evidence (names, dates, statistics).
Official Resources
Free, official study material for International Relations — always start with the source your exam board publishes.
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