7
Topics
IB Group 4 — Sciences
IB Computer Science 2026
IB Computer Science covers system fundamentals, computer organisation, networks, and computational thinking. HL adds abstract data structures, resource management, and control systems, plus a case study paper.
HL · 240hSL · 150h
HL & SL
Levels
30%
IA Weight
240h
HL Hours
Syllabus Topics
Official topic breakdown with approximate teaching hours.
| Topic | SL Hours | HL Hours |
|---|---|---|
| System Fundamentals | 20h | 20h |
| Computer Organisation | 6h | 6h |
| Networks | 9h | 9h |
| Computational Thinking, Problem Solving and Programming | 45h | 45h |
| Abstract Data Structures — HL only (stacks, queues, linked lists, trees, graphs)HL only | — | 20h |
| Resource Management — HL only (memory allocation, OS resources)HL only | — | 10h |
| Control — HL only (control systems, embedded systems)HL only | — | 10h |
| Total | 150h | 240h |
Assessment Structure
External Assessment
Paper 1 (theoretical knowledge, 2 hrs). Paper 2 (programming in Java/Python — trace, write, debug, 1.75 hrs). Internal Assessment: Software Solution (client-facing project). HL also sits Paper 3 (1 hour, pre-seen case study — system design analysis).
Internal Assessment — Software Solution
HL: 20%SL: 30%
Students design and develop a software application for a real client, documenting the development process from criterion A (planning) through to criterion F (evaluation).
Exam Tips for IB Computer Science
1
Paper 2 pseudocode trace questions are predictable and highly scorable — practise them systematically
2
Know Java: arrays, ArrayList, 2D arrays, OOP (inheritance, polymorphism), and recursion
3
HL data structures: draw stack/queue/linked list state diagrams for every operation
4
Read the HL case study at least three times before Paper 3 — annotate it and predict questions
5
Start the IA early — Criterion D (development) requires evidence of iterative testing, not just a working product
Predict your IB Computer Science grade
Enter your component marks and see your predicted final grade based on grade boundaries.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What topics are in IB Computer Science?
IB Computer Science covers System Fundamentals, Computer Organisation, Networks, Computational Thinking, Problem Solving and Programming, Abstract Data Structures — HL only (stacks, queues, linked lists, trees, graphs), Resource Management — HL only (memory allocation, OS resources), Control — HL only (control systems, embedded systems). HL students study additional depth and some HL-only extensions. Total teaching hours: HL 240, SL 150.
How is IB Computer Science assessed?
Paper 1 (theoretical knowledge, 2 hrs). Paper 2 (programming in Java/Python — trace, write, debug, 1.75 hrs). Internal Assessment: Software Solution (client-facing project). HL also sits Paper 3 (1 hour, pre-seen case study — system design analysis). The Internal Assessment (Software Solution) counts for 30% of the final grade at SL and 20% at HL.
What is the IB Computer Science IA?
The IB Computer Science IA is the Software Solution. Students design and develop a software application for a real client, documenting the development process from criterion A (planning) through to criterion F (evaluation). It accounts for 30% of the final grade at SL and 20% at HL.
Should I take IB Computer Science HL or SL?
Take HL if Computer Science is relevant to your university course (Computer science, software engineering, and data science university applications.), or if you are genuinely strong in the subject. HL adds 90 extra hours of content and deeper examination requirements. SL is suitable if you need the subject for the diploma but it is not your primary focus.