New Computer Science Guide: What to Expect

The new DP Computer Science subject guide was released early 2025, for first teaching August 2025 and first assessment May 2027. Here are the top five differences between the Curriculum that will be finally assessed in 2026 and the one we will teach from August 2025 which will be first assessed in 2027:

1. Java and Python The content has been designed to support both Java and Python as programming languages, allowing candidates to choose either language for their studies.
2. No Options Options are no longer available, and the case study is covered by both SL and HL students as part of paper 1 external assessment.
3. Databases, Object-Oriented Programming and case study for all Databases unit (part of option A before) and Object-Oriented Programming (option D) are now to be studied at both SL and HL level. The case study is now introduced to SL students as well. This allows all candidates to explore new trends, analyse emerging technologies, and deepen their understanding of the subject through the case study.
4. a single HL only Unit The “Abstract data types” topic is the only unit exclusive to HL students.
5. New IA structure and Criteria The Internal assessment has a new structure, and 5 more hours are allocated to it.

To find out more about the details of the syllabus changes, download our comparison spreadsheet.

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Alongside the release of the new curriculum, IB-approved textbooks have also been published. Both Hachette Learning and Oxford publications are offering an IB approved textbook. The new curriculum supports concept-based learning, and it combines theoretical and abstract concepts with practical skills to aid the development of algorithmic thinking skills and the applications of theory in solving real-world problems. The syllabus is split into two themes: The new syllabus introduces modern topics such as machine learning. While the content covered at SL is relatively basic, the HL curriculum delves into more advanced techniques, enabling students to explore the topic in greater depth.

To find out more about the details of the syllabus changes, download our comparison spreadsheet.

Download the Sheet

To download the full First Teaching 2025 Guide Click this Image (IB login required)

External Assessment

The external assessment has also undergone a revision, though its core structure remains largely unchanged. With the removal of the options, the assessment has been streamlined into two papers: Paper 1 and Paper 2.

Paper 1	Part A Theme A: Concepts of Computer Science Part B Pre-seen case study questions(2 challenges to be explored by SL students, 4 by HL ones)
Paper 2	Theme B: Conceptual thinking and problem Solving

Internal Assessment

The internal assessment continues to be structured around five criteria.

Criterion	Description	Marks
A	Problem scenario, computational context, success criteria.	4
B	Decomposing the problem and planning solutions that address the success criteria.	4
C	System overview: system model, algorithms, testing strategy	6
D	Development process, a fully functional product, a supporting video	12
E	Evaluating the solution and offering recommendations for improvement	4
	Total	30

Internal Assessment observed changes:

Client requirements There is no longer a requirement to involve a client, giving candidates the freedom to explore any topic that interests them. Video Duration: maximum 5 minutes The video should clearly demonstrate the functionality of the product, as well as provide examples of the testing strategy used. Documentation The written documentation must be submitted as a single document. Appendices All appendices, including the full source code and any student-developed resources referenced in the documentation—should be compiled into a separate PDF file. Word count The total word count remains capped at 2,000 words. Time allocated The Internal Assessment is now allocated 35 hours. Exam weight The internal assessment contributes 30% to the final grade at SL and 20% at HL. That sounds exciting! I'm sure your exploration of these new concepts will be both rewarding and engaging. I hope you and your students have a great time discovering all the learning opportunities the new curriculum offers! To further support teachers preparation for the new course, ManageBac is preparing two webinars:

1. a collaborative webinar session that presents the main changes in the guide and allows time for discussion and sharing of resources.
2. a collaborative webinar session that focuses on the Internal Assessment changes.

ManageBac Subject Pages offer a collection of curated, subject-specific resources to support best practices in teaching and learning. You can access Subject Pages via your ManageBac account - check in regularly for new materials, advice and ideas.

Join me in our upcoming free webinar as I explore the updates in the Computer Science Guide and their effects on teaching and learning.