Introduction
You’ve completed the International Baccalaureate and earned a total of 30 points. But now you’re asking yourself: Can I still apply to top universities if I got a 30 in IB? The short answer is yes, you absolutely can.
While a 30 may not meet the minimum requirement for the most elite programs at Ivy League or Oxbridge level, many top-ranked and highly respected universities value more than just your final IB score.
What Does a 30 IB Score Actually Mean?
A score of 30 out of 45 in the IB Diploma places you above the global average, which usually hovers between 29 and 31. It reflects solid academic performance across six challenging subjects, including core components like TOK, the Extended Essay, and CAS.
It’s not a bad score—it’s a respectable achievement in one of the world’s toughest pre-university programs.
Understanding Top University Requirements
“Top university” can mean many things. If you define it as:
- Highly competitive Ivy League or Oxbridge: These often require 38–42+
- Globally ranked schools with holistic admissions: Many accept 30–34
- Specialized programs or creative courses: They often prioritize portfolios, interviews, or subject performance
You don’t need a 40+ to get into a reputable, globally respected institution.
Examples of Top Universities That Accept 30+ Scores
Canada:
- University of British Columbia (UBC): Some programs accept 28–30+
- University of Toronto: Many faculties accept 30–34
- McGill University: Entry from 30–32 for general programs
UK:
- University of Manchester: 30–34 for many courses
- University of Leeds, Bristol, and Sussex: Commonly accept 30+
- Foundation years offered by Russell Group universities
Europe:
- Erasmus University, University of Amsterdam, KU Leuven (Belgium), and other top European schools accept 28–32
Asia & Australia:
- University of Melbourne, Monash, and ANU: Often accept 30+
- HKU and NUS (Singapore): Accept a range of scores depending on course
How Universities Evaluate Beyond the IB Score
Especially in countries like the US, UK, and Canada, admissions are holistic. That means they look at:
- Personal statement or Common App essay
- Reference letters from teachers
- CAS and extracurricular achievements
- EE or TOK topics that demonstrate academic curiosity
- Interview performance (if applicable)
Even with a 30, you can outshine a 40-point applicant if you tell a stronger story.
Strengthening Other Areas of Your Application
Focus on:
- A strong personal statement that reflects your passion and potential
- Impressive CAS projects that show initiative and leadership
- A well-written EE that demonstrates research ability
- Unique extracurriculars that highlight talent or creativity
- Teacher references that confirm your dedication and character
The Role of Predicted Grades and Final Results
Many universities issue offers based on predicted grades. If your prediction was higher than 30, you can explain the drop in your final application—especially if it was due to illness or other factors.
Some schools may even honor their offer if you just missed the requirement.
Can You Explain Your Score in the Application?
Yes—and you should, if needed. Use:
- The Additional Information section of Common App or UCAS
- A short paragraph in your personal statement
- A separate letter or reference explaining extenuating circumstances
Be honest and take responsibility—but also focus on what you’ve learned and how you’ve grown.
Courses and Countries Where 30+ is Competitive
Some degrees and universities where 30 is more than enough:
- Business, marketing, and psychology at top-ranked non-elite schools
- International relations at strong liberal arts colleges
- Law or pre-law at smaller but prestigious programs in the UK or US
- Foundation or diploma-to-degree programs in Europe, Canada, and Asia
Pathways to Top Schools If You Don’t Meet Entry Points
- Foundation year programs at top UK universities like King’s College London or UCL
- Community college > transfer path to top US universities
- Gap year with academic improvement, new qualifications, or retakes
- Applying to a less selective program and transferring internally
The Importance of Subject Choice and HL Performance
Even if your total is 30, strong grades in HL subjects can speak volumes. Highlight:
- Consistent high performance in subjects related to your intended major
- IA and EE work that connects with future academic goals
- Any HL grades of 6 or solid 5s in demanding subjects
RevisionDojo’s Application Support for Mid-Score IB Students
At RevisionDojo, we help IB students like you maximize their applications—regardless of their score. Our expert team supports with:
- Personal statement writing and editing
- Targeted university selection strategy
- IB subject coaching to improve performance for future applications
- Specialized guidance for transfer or foundation programs
Call to Action: Win with a 30 Using RevisionDojo
You are more than your IB score. With the right tools, strategy, and mindset, you can open doors to universities that fit your potential—not just your points.
Visit www.revisiondojo.com and take your next step toward university success today—no matter your IB score.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I get into a top 100 global university with a 30 in IB?
Yes, many global top 100 universities accept 30–34, especially with strong supporting materials.
2. Should I retake exams to boost my IB score?
Only if you're targeting a course that strictly requires a higher score. Speak to an advisor first.
3. Can I apply to the US with a 30?
Yes. Many US schools use holistic admissions—strong essays and extracurriculars can outweigh your score.
4. Does a 30 in IB disqualify me from scholarships?
Some merit scholarships may require 34+, but need-based or holistic scholarships are still accessible.
5. Is it better to do a foundation year or retake the IB?
Foundation years offer a smoother academic bridge and are often preferred over retakes.
6. How can RevisionDojo help me with a 30 score?
We provide personalized support for your applications, essays, course selection, and strategy.
Conclusion
A 30 in the IB doesn’t define your future—it just defines your starting point. With the right narrative, planning, and support, you can still gain admission to great universities and pursue the career you envision.
Let RevisionDojo be part of your journey—and turn your 30 into a story of resilience, strategy, and success.
