How Are IB Exams Scored?
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.
IB Points System Overview
Subject Grades
6 subjects × 7 points each
Maximum points from subjects
Core Components
EE + TOK combination
Maximum bonus points
Total Possible
Subjects + Core points
Perfect IB score
Grade Boundaries (2024)
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 |
Important Note
Grade boundaries vary by subject and session. These are approximate ranges based on recent years.
IB Diploma Requirements
To earn the IB Diploma, students must meet ALL of the following requirements:
Minimum Total Points
24 points out of 45
Higher Level Subjects
Minimum 12 points from 3 HL subjects
No Grade 1
No subject can receive grade 1
Maximum Two Grade 2s
No more than two subjects with grade 2
Higher Level Grade 3+
No more than one HL subject with grade 3
Core Requirements
Complete EE, TOK, and CAS
Core Points Matrix (EE + TOK)
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 |
Global IB Statistics (2024)
Average Diploma Score
Diploma Pass Rate
Perfect Score (45 points)
Score 40+ points
Score 35+ points
Score 30+ points
University IB Score Requirements
Different universities have varying IB score requirements. Here are examples from top institutions:
Harvard University
39+ points typically
Highly competitive
Oxford University
38-40 points
Subject-specific requirements
University of Toronto
32+ points
Varies by programme
McGill University
31+ points
English proficiency required
UBC
30+ points
Competitive programmes need higher
Stanford University
40+ points typically
Holistic admissions
Remember:
- • Requirements vary by programme within universities
- • Some programmes require specific HL subjects
- • Minimum grades in specific subjects may be required
- • English language proficiency is often required
Strategies for High IB Scores
Understanding Criteria
- Study assessment criteria for each subject carefully
- Practice using mark schemes from past papers
- Focus on command terms (analyze, evaluate, discuss)
- Understand what each grade level represents
Exam Strategy
- Time management is crucial in all subjects
- Answer all required questions completely
- Show working in mathematics and sciences
- Use subject-specific terminology accurately
Internal Assessment
- IA contributes 20-25% of final grade
- Follow assessment criteria precisely
- Start early and seek teacher feedback
- Keep detailed process journals
Official Resources
Achieve Your Target IB Scores
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.