IB CAS Requirements 2026: Hours, Projects & Examples
Updated: 11 minutes ago
The IB CAS (Creativity, Activity, Service) programme is an essential component of the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP). It encourages students to develop practical skills, explore personal interests and contribute to their communities.
However, many students have questions about IB CAS requirements. How many CAS hours are required? What counts as a CAS project? How should students write reflections?
This 2026 guide explains the requirements, activity ideas and strategies for completing CAS successfully.
1. What Is IB CAS?
CAS is one of the three IB Diploma core components, alongside Theory of Knowledge (TOK) and the Extended Essay (EE).
It consists of three strands:
CAS Strand | Main Focus | Examples |
Creativity | Creative expression and thinking | Photography, music, design |
Activity | Physical wellbeing | Swimming, running, basketball |
Service | Meaningful community contribution | Volunteering, environmental projects |
Students are expected to participate in experiences covering all three strands throughout their CAS programme.
2. IB CAS Requirements in 2026
CAS does not receive a numerical grade, but successful completion is compulsory for obtaining the IB Diploma.
The main requirements include:
Participating regularly in CAS for at least 18 months
Engaging in Creativity, Activity and Service experiences
Completing at least one collaborative CAS project lasting a minimum of one month
Demonstrating all seven CAS learning outcomes
Maintaining a CAS portfolio with reflections and supporting evidence
How Many CAS Hours Are Required?
Many students believe they must complete 150 CAS hours, divided equally among the three strands.
However, the IB no longer prescribes a universal 150-hour requirement.
Instead, CAS focuses on meaningful participation, personal development and achievement of learning outcomes.
Individual schools may establish their own activity targets or monitoring requirements, so students should consult their CAS coordinator.
3. IB CAS Activity Ideas and Examples
Choosing meaningful activities can make CAS more enjoyable and rewarding.
Creativity Examples
Creativity encourages students to explore ideas and develop creative abilities.
Popular IB CAS ideas include:
Learning photography or video editing
Designing a school magazine
Playing a musical instrument
Creating digital artwork
Writing poetry or short stories
Activity Examples
Activity promotes physical wellbeing through regular exercise.
Examples include:
Joining a school sports team
Training for a charity run
Learning swimming or martial arts
Participating in hiking activities
Developing a fitness routine
Service Examples
Service involves voluntary contributions that address genuine community needs.
Examples include:
Volunteering at local charities
Organising beach clean-ups
Supporting younger students
Participating in environmental campaigns
Helping community organisations
Students should select experiences that provide opportunities for meaningful learning and reflection.
4. How to Complete an IB CAS Project
Every IB student must participate in at least one CAS project involving collaboration and sustained engagement for a minimum of one month.
A CAS project can involve one or several CAS strands.
CAS Project Idea | CAS Strands |
Charity sports event | Activity + Service |
Environmental awareness campaign | Creativity + Service |
Community art workshop | Creativity + Service |
Student recycling initiative | Service |
Community fitness programme | Activity + Service |
Five Steps to Complete a CAS Project
1. Investigation: Identify a meaningful issue or community need.
2. Preparation: Develop objectives, organise responsibilities and create a timeline.
3. Action: Implement the project and collaborate with others.
4. Reflection: Evaluate challenges, achievements and personal growth.
5. Demonstration: Present evidence of the project's results and learning experiences.
Students should obtain guidance from their CAS coordinator before starting.
5. Seven IB CAS Learning Outcomes
Successful CAS completion requires students to demonstrate seven learning outcomes:
Identify strengths and areas for growth: Recognise personal abilities and weaknesses.
Undertake challenges and develop skills: Explore unfamiliar experiences.
Initiate and plan experiences: Demonstrate organisation and independence.
Show commitment and perseverance: Maintain participation despite challenges.
Develop collaborative skills: Work effectively with others.
Engage with global issues: Understand matters of global significance.
Consider ethical implications: Reflect on responsible choices and actions.
Students should collect evidence of their learning throughout the programme rather than waiting until the final deadline.
6. How to Write Effective CAS Reflections
CAS reflections help students explain what they learned from their experiences.
Instead of simply describing activities, students should discuss challenges, personal development and future improvements.
Basic Reflection:
"I joined a beach clean-up and collected rubbish with my classmates."
Improved Reflection:
"During the beach clean-up, I learned how to coordinate volunteers and developed stronger communication skills. The experience also increased my awareness of environmental responsibility."
Effective reflections should answer:
What challenges did I face?
What new skills did I develop?
How did my actions affect others?
What would I improve next time?
Reflections can be supported by photographs, journals or other evidence approved by the school.
7. Common IB CAS Mistakes to Avoid
Students should avoid several common mistakes:
Focusing only on hours: CAS prioritises meaningful learning rather than accumulating hours.
Starting too late: CAS requires consistent participation over time.
Choosing unsuitable activities: Select experiences that provide genuine opportunities for development.
Writing descriptive reflections: Explain what you learned rather than simply listing activities.
Ignoring school deadlines: Follow your CAS coordinator's requirements and portfolio guidelines.
8. Frequently Asked Questions
Is 150 CAS hours still required?
No. The IB does not prescribe a universal 150-hour requirement, although individual schools may establish activity targets.
How long does IB CAS last?
Students should participate regularly for at least 18 months during the Diploma Programme.
How many CAS projects are required?
Students must complete at least one collaborative CAS project lasting a minimum of one month.
Does CAS contribute to the IB score?
No. CAS does not contribute points towards the maximum IB score of 45, but successful completion is required for the diploma.
Final Thoughts
Completing IB CAS requirements is about more than volunteering or recording activities. CAS helps students develop creativity, leadership, teamwork and personal responsibility.
By planning meaningful experiences, reflecting consistently and managing their time effectively, students can make CAS a valuable part of their IB journey.
Need Support with Your IB Studies?
Balancing CAS with six IB subjects, TOK and EE can be challenging.
At HKEXCEL, we provide personalised IB tutoring in Hong Kong to help students strengthen subject understanding and examination skills.
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