Important changes of IBDP weighting
The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) is a globally recognised curriculum framework for students preparing for university entrance. With a combination of both internal (moderated) and external assessments, students are prepared, by IBO authorised schools under a closely guided framework, towards a final examination covering the studied subjects. Examinations are scheduled in May or November depending on the school’s curriculum.
Below are the weighting of subjects that Hong Kong students usually take. There will be some significant changes in 2025, so make sure you are aware of them.
Table of Content
#1 Economics
A grasp of the intricacies and interdependence of economic activities in a quickly changing world can be gained by studying Economics, which is a fascinating and engaging subject.
| HL Component | New Weighting |
| Paper 1 | 20% |
| Paper 2 | 30% |
| Paper 3 | 30% |
| Internal Assessment | 20% |
#2 Computer Science
The IBDP Computer Science curriculum emphasises analytical thinking and hands-on experience. Studying the subject will nurture an aptitude for computational thinking, and familiarity with the inner workings of computers and other digital technologies.
HL
| Type of Assessment | Weighting of Final Grade |
| Paper 1 | 40% |
| Paper 2 | 20% |
| Paper 3 | 20% |
| Internal Assessment | 20% |
SL
| Type of Assessment | Weighting of Final Grade |
| Paper 1 | 45% |
| Paper 2 | 25% |
| Internal Assessment | 30% |
#3 Psychology
Studying IBDP Psychology helps students understand behaviour from three different perspectives. It is the backbone of an all-encompassing, all-inclusive strategy to help pupils grasp the interconnectedness of their own and other people’s mental processes.
SL
| Type of Assessment | Weighting of Final Grade |
| Paper 1 | 50% |
| Paper 2 | 25% |
| Internal Assessment | 25% |
HL
| Type of Assessment | Weighting of Final Grade |
| Paper 1 | 40% |
| Paper 2 | 20% |
| Paper 3 | 20% |
| Internal Assessment | 20% |
#4 Physics
IGCSE (International General Certificate of Secondary Education) / GCE AL (General Certificate of Education Advanced Level) is suitable for students applying to universities in the UK.
Current weighting (SL, from now to 2024)
| Type of Assessment | Weighting of Final Grade |
| Paper 1 | 20% |
| Paper 2 | 40% |
| Paper 3 | 20% |
| Internal Assessment | 20% |
Current weighting (HL, from now to 2024)
| Type of Assessment | Weighting of Final Grade |
| Paper 1 | 20% |
| Paper 2 | 36% |
| Paper 3 | 24% |
| Internal Assessment | 20% |
Updated weighting (SL and HL, starting from 2025)
| Type of Assessment | Weighting of Final Grade |
| Paper 1 | 36% |
| Paper 2 | 44% |
| Internal Assessment | 20% |
#5 Chemistry
Chemistry is one of the three natural sciences included in the IBDP, and its focus is on discovering repeating structures that can be used to explain how matter works on a molecular level. This paves the way for the macroscopic prediction and manipulation of material behaviour. Starting from 2025, there will be a final grade weighting update.
Current weighting (SL, from now to 2024)
| Type of Assessment | Weighting of Final Grade |
| Paper 1 | 20% |
| Paper 2 | 40% |
| Paper 3 | 20% |
| Internal Assessment | 20% |
Current weighting (HL, from now to 2024)
| Type of Assessment | Weighting of Final Grade |
| Paper 1 | 20% |
| Paper 2 | 36% |
| Paper 3 | 24% |
| Internal Assessment | 20% |
Updated weighting (Assessment starting from 2025)
| Type of Assessment | Weighting |
| Paper 1 | 36% |
| Paper 2 | 44% |
| Internal Assessment | 20% |
#6 Biology
Biology is the study of life. Because of the staggering variety of living things, Biology is both endlessly fascinating and not easy to study. Students taking IBDP Biology will gain an understanding of the processes and protocols used by scientists.
Current weighting (SL, from now to 2024)
| Type of Assessment | Weighting of Final Grade |
| Paper 1 | 20% |
| Paper 2 | 40% |
| Paper 3 | 20% |
| Internal Assessment | 20% |
Current weighting (HL, from now to 2024)
| Type of Assessment | Weighting of Final Grade |
| Paper 1 | 20% |
| Paper 2 | 36% |
| Paper 3 | 24% |
| Internal Assessment | 20% |
Updated weighting (Starting from 2025)
| Type of Assessment | Weighting of Final Grade |
| Paper 1 | 36% |
| Paper 2 | 44% |
| Internal Assessment | 20% |
Knowing how much each component counts towards your overall grade is crucial. In particular, Hong Kong students taking the 2025 IBDP Exam should be aware of several shifts—the weighting of each topic, the method of instruction and evaluation could be impacted by these modifications. Be sure to maintain a high level of awareness and readiness, and take full advantage of this programme to set the stage for your future academic success. We wish you the best of luck in your examination preparation.
Reference:
https://www.embibe.com/exams/ib-international-baccalaureate-diploma/