May vs November IB retakes: choosing the right session

Compare the actual 2026–2027 paper dates

November and May are session names, not promises that every paper falls within those calendar months. The November 2026 final schedule runs from 23 October to 13 November. The May 2027 final schedule runs from 23 April to 18 May. Your subjects may occupy only part of the full window; confirm local start times with the school.

A student considering two subjects should list every paper date before calculating nights away from home. Two subjects with a long gap can require more travel planning than three subjects close together. Avoid non-refundable travel until the host school confirms your personal timetable.

See every November 2026 paper · See every May 2027 paper · Build the travel budget

Confirm subjects and an accepting school

May and November are the two examination sessions, but a subject appearing on a timetable does not mean every school will host it or accept external candidates. The IB’s retake guidance requires you to consult the intended school about restrictions; acceptance is the school’s decision.

If your original school only runs May, you may need a different host school for November. Ask about the exact subject, HL/SL level, examination language and curriculum version. Have the coordinator confirm any assessment that must be completed or can be carried forward.

Compare result dates with the university’s deadline

The IB distinguishes school and candidate release times:

• May: candidate results begin on 6 July from 12:00 GMT.
• November: results are issued to schools on 16 December from 21:00 GMT, with staggered release. Confirm your own candidate access time on the PIN report or with the coordinator.

Ask admissions about the specific course and entry year: are retaken results accepted, what is the final date for grades and the official transcript, and would you need to reapply or defer? Do not infer those answers from the country’s usual academic calendar.

Course-specific example: UCL’s general admissions FAQ says most courses consider resits, while its Medicine MBBS BSc page for September 2027 excludes resits under its stated definition. Ask the course admissions team how your own examination history is classified before choosing either session.

Check preparation and entry before choosing

Compare each proposed session against the same information. The next date is useful only if the school can still register you and you can prepare the required assessments:

1. Entry: obtain written subject/level/language acceptance and the school’s registration and payment cutoffs. A paid search or an enquiry is not confirmed exam entry.
2. Preparation: use a timed paper or marked diagnostic to identify the topics and assessment skills still needing work. Put practice, feedback and another timed attempt on the calendar.
3. Logistics: list all your papers and local reporting times, then calculate the stay and travel costs.
4. Admissions: compare the result and transcript dates with the university’s written response.