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Detailed explanation of IB grading criteria and how to achieve your target scores for university admission
The IB scoring system is unique and can seem complex at first. Understanding how grades are determined, what diploma requirements you must meet, and how universities interpret IB scores is crucial for academic success. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about IB exam scoring and grading.
6 subjects × 7 points each
Maximum points from subjects
EE + TOK combination
Maximum bonus points
Subjects + Core points
Perfect IB score
IB grade boundaries are set after each examination session based on statistical analysis. Here are typical grade boundaries:
| Grade | Percentage Range | Performance Level |
|---|---|---|
7 | 96-100% | Exceptional performance |
6 | 89-95% | Superior performance |
5 | 77-88% | Good performance |
4 | 63-76% | Satisfactory performance |
3 | 48-62% | Mediocre performance |
2 | 32-47% | Poor performance |
1 | 0-31% | Very poor performance |
Grade boundaries vary by subject and session. These are approximate ranges based on recent years.
To earn the IB Diploma, students must meet ALL of the following requirements:
24 points out of 45
Minimum 12 points from 3 HL subjects
No subject can receive grade 1
No more than two subjects with grade 2
No more than one HL subject with grade 3
Complete EE, TOK, and CAS
The Extended Essay and Theory of Knowledge are graded A-E, and their combination determines bonus points (0-3) for the diploma:
| TOK Grade | EE Grade | Bonus Points | Combination |
|---|---|---|---|
A | A | 3 | Excellent work in both |
A | B | 3 | Excellent TOK, good EE |
A | C | 2 | Excellent TOK, satisfactory EE |
B | A | 3 | Good TOK, excellent EE |
B | B | 2 | Good work in both |
B | C | 1 | Good TOK, satisfactory EE |
C | A | 2 | Satisfactory TOK, excellent EE |
C | B | 1 | Satisfactory TOK, good EE |
C | C | 1 | Satisfactory work in both |
Different universities have varying IB score requirements. Here are examples from top institutions:
39+ points typically
Highly competitive
38-40 points
Subject-specific requirements
32+ points
Varies by programme
31+ points
English proficiency required
30+ points
Competitive programmes need higher
40+ points typically
Holistic admissions
Understanding the scoring system is just the beginning. Get expert support to maximize your performance and achieve the scores you need for your dream university.