IB exam checklist: everything you need to pack for your IB exams in 2025

Stay organised the night before the exam 😉

Written by Anzhelika Tauber, MSc

Exams can be super stressful and frustrating. But there are a few things you can do to reduce exam stress and anxiety. And one of them is creating a checklist of all the materials and resources you need to prepare the night before the exam. This IB exam checklist will make sure you pack everything you need for the exam and will prevent any last-minute stress and unexpected panic attacks. Plus, it will eliminate all the materials that are not permitted at the IB exams in 2025. And yeah, things changed from last year! In case there are any special exam regulations in your school, it is a good idea to familiarise yourself with those too.

Everything you need to pack for your IB exams in 2023. Download this list to prevent any last minute exam stress and to stay organised.

1. Pens/ pencils

It might appear obvious but It’s easy to forget to bring a pen to an important exam simply because there are so many things to remember. It’s a good idea to bring extra pens just in case your main one stops working. But make sure to not clutter your desk because it might distract you. You can keep all the extras in a clear plastic container, such as a ziplock bag.

Here is some necessary writing equipment:

Several #2 sharpened pencils (no mechanical pencils)
Black ink pens
Erasers
Coloured pencils for English Paper 1
Ruler, geometry instruments
Other special equipment, such as compass, needed for tech drawing, geography, etc.

2. Calculator

If you need a calculator for the exam, make sure you pack it the night before and check it twice. You can’t imagine (and we hope you will never have to experience) the nightmare of calculating Maths AI HL problems without a calculator. If possible, find out how much battery is left in it so that it does not stop working during the exam. It’s a good idea to bring an extra calculator or an extra battery just in case.

Here is the list of the IB approved calculators. In case you do not have a calculator or you got yourself a fancy one with Wi-Fi and it is not allowed, inquire in your school about a loaner calculator. But be sure to make it on time, some days in advance, as it is possible that there won’t be any available calculators on sight on the day of the exam.

Make sure you do not forget:

Calculator
Extra battery

3. Water in a clear bottle

Water is not only important for keeping hydrated but it can also help to calm your nerves and reduce accumulating anxiety. Bring water in a clear bottle without any labels or writing. And in case you are afraid you might get hungry at the exam, pack a small snack and eat it right before entering the exam room. It will give you a certain boost of energy and will hopefully maintain your sugar levels during the exam.

4. Bilingual dictionary

If you are taking an exam in a subject rather than languages and literature you are allowed to bring a bilingual dictionary. Beware, though, that the dictionary will be checked before the exam for the presence of any cheat sheets or notes.

5. Timetable

It is definitely a good idea to always carry a copy of your exam timetable. But also have one at home, one saved on the computer, and one on the phone. Basically, have it accessible and available at all times. Make sure you know what exam is next, where it is, and when it is! And pay special attention to the time and place as you do not want to be running between classrooms five minutes before your big exam. Note, though, that you will need to leave the timetable in your bag before entering the exam classroom!

6. Comfy clothes

The goal of this checklist is to minimize any possible stress and anxiety before the exams. And preparing your clothes the evening before will do just that. It is a good idea to wear comfortable clothing such as sweatpants and sweatshirts. And in case you are temperature sensitive, we recommend wearing layers as you will be able to quickly put on and take off clothes.

Items not permitted in the exam room

Here is the list of items that are not permitted and should not be taken into the exam room (taking these items, even by mistake, might put you in the jeopardy of failing the exam right away):

Electronic equipment including smartphones, tablets, laptops, etc.
Wearable technology such as smart watches, smart glasses and wireless headphones
Wristwatches, even if they are analogue, are not allowed at the IB exams in 2025
Gel pens (gel pens might not be allowed as the ink melts due to the heat and takes longer to dry)
Books or guides
Food
Rough/scratch paper or notes
Backpack
Purse
Correction fluid or tape
Formula book, data booklets, case studies, and other documents necessary for the exam will be provided to you by the examiner and you do not need to bring them yourself

You can also download this list in a pdf, print it out and hang it in your room to see what all the things you need to pack the night before your IB exams are. We guarantee you will feel less stressed and more focused!

Additional Updates for IB Exams in 2025:

Calculator Memory Clearance: Schools are now required to clear the memory of all calculators after each exam to prevent the storage of unauthorized information.
Extended Supervision: Students must remain under supervision for at least two hours after completing their exams to prevent the sharing of exam content across different time zones.
Adjusted Exam Start Times: Exam start times have been changed in some regions to reduce the risk of students sharing questions before others take the test.
Unannounced Inspection Visits: IB officials may conduct unannounced visits during exam periods to ensure compliance with new regulations.
Transition to Digital Exams: The IB is gradually introducing digital examinations, with select subjects offering digital formats starting in November 2026.

Download your exam checklist here:

IB exam checklist 2025

Knowing that a lot is already taken care of and you won’t make any silly mistakes, such as forgetting to take a pen to the exam. Or create your own custom exam checklist! In any case, having one will certainly increase your chances of performing well and achieving your academic goals!

What is CAS?<br />
CAS stands for Creativity, Activity, and Service. It is an essential component of the International Baccalaureate (IB) program, designed to develop well-rounded individuals who are actively engaged in their communities. CAS encourages students to explore their interests, develop new skills, and contribute positively to society.

About the Author

Anzhelika is a PhD candidate in Genetics and a marketing consultant at U4Success from Vienna, Austria. She leads our website and social media content strategy.