CAS in the IB: What It Actually Is (and Why It Matters)

If you’ve heard IB students talk about CAS, it’s usually followed by complaints about reflections or confusion about requirements. Unlike exams or Internal Assessments, CAS doesn’t give you a grade — which is probably why many students don’t take it seriously at first.

However, CAS is a compulsory part of the IB Diploma Programme. Failing to complete it means you do not receive your diploma. So while it isn’t graded, it is essential.

CAS stands for Creativity, Activity, and Service. It is designed to encourage students to engage in experiences beyond academics and to develop skills that aren’t always measured in exams. The beauty of CAS is that it could be almost anything. Case in point; this very blog is one of my CAS experiences.

The Structure of CAS

CAS runs throughout the Diploma Programme, usually over 18 months. Students must:

• Engage in experiences across the three strands (Creativity, Activity, Service)

• Complete a CAS project (a collaborative, long-term activity)

• Demonstrate achievement of the seven CAS learning outcomes

• Regularly reflect on their experiences

Unlike older versions of CAS, there is no official hour requirement anymore (yay!). Instead, the focus is on sustained engagement and meaningful participation.

What Counts as Creativity, Activity, and Service?

Creativity involves exploring ideas and producing something original. This could include art, music, writing, coding, designing, or organizing an event.

Activity focuses on physical exertion and developing a healthy lifestyle. Sports teams, gym training, dance, yoga, or regular exercise routines can qualify.

Service involves unpaid, voluntary exchange that benefits others. Examples include tutoring, community initiatives, fundraising, or awareness campaigns.

The key is that activities should be purposeful and involve personal growth — not just participation.

The CAS Project

The CAS project is a significant collaborative experience lasting at least one month. It must involve planning, action, and reflection.

This is often where students feel most challenged, as it requires coordination and long-term commitment. However, it is also one of the most valuable parts of CAS because it develops leadership, organization, and teamwork skills.

Examples might include organizing a community event, running a student initiative, or launching a collaborative awareness campaign.

Reflections: More Than a Summary

Many students misunderstand reflections. They are not simply descriptions of what happened.

Effective reflections analyse:

• How did this experience reflect my personal ideas and values?
• In what ways am I being challenged to think differently about myself and others?
• How did I feel?
• What were the outcomes for me, the team with whom I was working with, and others?
• Did I meet my goals? Why or why not?
• What would I do differently another time?

(Taken from r/IBO on Reddit)

The goal is to show evidence of growth and engagement with the learning outcomes.

Why CAS Exists

The IB aims to develop well-rounded individuals, not just strong exam candidates. CAS ensures that students engage with creativity, physical well-being, and service to others alongside academic study.

It promotes balance and encourages students to step outside their comfort zones.

While CAS can sometimes feel like an additional responsibility, it is also one of the few components of the IB that allows flexibility and personal choice. Not to mention, meaningful CAS experiences look great on an application.

Final Thoughts

CAS is often underestimated because it is not graded. However, it plays an important role in shaping the IB experience.

When approached thoughtfully, CAS can become more than a requirement. It can be an opportunity to develop initiative, leadership, and self-awareness — qualities that extend far beyond the Diploma Programme.

In future posts, I’ll cover:

• How to write strong CAS reflections

• Ideas for meaningful CAS projects

• Common mistakes students make

If you’re starting CAS, the most important advice is this: choose activities you genuinely care about. It makes the entire process more manageable — and more meaningful.