History past papers · IB HL
2021–2026Group 3Paper 1 · Paper 2 · Paper 3
IB History HL past papers — by session
Every recent History exam series we cover (2021–2026), each with Paper 1, Paper 2, Paper 3. Practise a paper, then mark it against the IB band descriptors — that's where the grade is won.
Practice by topic
Criterion-based practice for every syllabus point — revise the lesson, then mark your response band-by-band.
- 1.1Paper 1 — understanding and evaluating sources
- 1.2Paper 1 — comparison and synthesis of sources
- 1.3Paper 1 — structured essay from sources
- 2.1Society and economy (750–1400)
- 2.2Causes and effects of medieval wars (750–1500)
- 2.3Dynasties and rulers (750–1500)
- 2.4Societies in transition (1400–1700)
- 2.5Early Modern states (1450–1789)
- 2.6Causes and effects of Early Modern wars (1500–1750)
- 2.7Origins, development and impact of industrialization (1750–2005)
- 2.8Independence movements (1800–2000)
- 2.9Evolution and development of democratic states (1848–2000)
- 2.10Authoritarian states (20th century)
- 2.11Causes and effects of 20th-century wars
- 2.12The Cold War: superpower tensions and rivalries
- 3.1Paper 3 — regional depth study essay skills
- 3.2Paper 3 — historiography and historical debate
Papers by exam series
- May 2026HLPaper 1Paper 2Paper 3
- November 2025HLPaper 1Paper 2Paper 3
- May 2025HLPaper 1Paper 2Paper 3
- November 2024HLPaper 1Paper 2Paper 3
- May 2024HLPaper 1Paper 2Paper 3
- November 2023HLPaper 1Paper 2Paper 3
- May 2023HLPaper 1Paper 2Paper 3
- November 2022HLPaper 1Paper 2Paper 3
- May 2022HLPaper 1Paper 2Paper 3
- November 2021HLPaper 1Paper 2Paper 3
- May 2021HLPaper 1Paper 2Paper 3
Practise any paper, then upload your answer for criteria-based feedback while official IB mark-scheme marking rolls out.
Frequently asked questions
- Where can I find IB History HL past papers?
- Every recent History HL exam series (2021–2026) is listed below by session, covering Paper 1, Paper 2, Paper 3. Practise each, then mark against the band descriptors.
- Does IB History have mark schemes?
- Yes — IB publishes mark schemes that use markbands and assessment criteria. Our guides explain how examiners place answers into level bands so you can mark your own work like an examiner.
- What's the best way to use History past papers?
- Work a full paper under timed conditions, mark yourself strictly against the band descriptors, list every mark you dropped, then drill those skills before the next session.
Best free IB History resources
Hand-picked, fully legal and free — official IB papers plus the best teacher-made notes and solutions.