DP1 (Year 1) Timeline
| Period | Key Tasks | Parent Actions |
|---|---|---|
| Sep-Oct | Adapt to IB rhythm, finalize HL/SL, start CAS | Monitor adjustment, stay in touch with subject teachers |
| Nov-Dec | IA preliminary topics, TOK begins, EE topic exploration | Encourage IA and EE topic discussions with teachers |
| Jan-Mar | IA research progresses, EE topic confirmed, literature review begins | Ensure reasonable time management, prevent procrastination |
| Apr-Jun | DP1 final exams, TOK exhibition prep, EE initial research | Monitor final grades — these affect predicted grades |
| Jul-Aug (Summer) | EE first draft, IA experiments/data, research universities | Most critical period! Ensure EE first draft is completed |
DP2 (Year 2) Timeline
| Period | Key Tasks | Parent Actions |
|---|---|---|
| Sep | EE final revisions, TOK essay, university applications begin | Review EE quality, prepare application materials |
| Oct 15 | Oxbridge/Medicine deadline! | Ensure all materials ready |
| Nov-Dec | IA final submission, Oxbridge interviews, TOK essay due | Help arrange interview practice |
| Jan | UCAS deadline, CAS completion records | Confirm all applications submitted |
| Feb-Mar | All IA/EE/TOK finals due, systematic revision begins | Create a quiet study environment |
| Apr | Final exam sprint | Monitor mental health, reduce pressure |
| May | IB Global Exams! | Logistics — meals, sleep, transport |
| Jul 6 | IB Results Day | Prepare for all outcomes — confirm or Clearing |
Three Most Overlooked Milestones
⚠️ Students and parents most often miss these three:
- DP1 Summer (Jul-Aug): The golden window for EE writing. Completing the first draft here reduces DP2 pressure by 30%+. Conversely, doing nothing creates a nightmare of IA+EE+TOK+applications in DP2 fall.
- IA Internal Deadlines (school-set): Often much earlier than official IB deadlines — some schools require January DP2 submission. Don't wait until the last minute!
- Predicted Grades (DP2 Sep-Oct): Critical for university applications. DP1 final grades and early DP2 performance directly affect predictions — this is why DP1 summer can't be completely relaxed.
📅 Parent Action Checklist
- ✅ DP1 Start: Learn the full IB structure with your child
- ✅ DP1 Mid-term: Check IA and EE topic progress
- ✅ DP1 Summer: Ensure EE first draft (at minimum lit review) is done
- ✅ DP2 Sep: Confirm predicted grades and application materials
- ✅ DP2 Jan: Ensure all internal assessments submitted
- ✅ DP2 Apr-May: Logistics support, reduce stress