The IB uses both external and internal assessment in the DP.

External assessment (In May)

Examinations form the basis of the assessment for most courses. This is because of their high levels of objectivity and reliability.

They include:

• essays
• structured problems
• short-response questions
• data-response questions
• text-response questions
• case-study questions
• multiple-choice questions – though these are rarely used. 

Internal assessment (administered by classroom teachers and sent to the IBO for moderation)

Teacher assessment is also used for most courses. This includes:

• oral work in languages
• laboratory work in the sciences
• investigations in mathematics
• artistic performances.