Introduction to the IB Grading System
In the International Baccalaureate (IB) program, achieving a grade of 7 is considered the pinnacle of academic performance. But one of the most common questions among students is: "If I get 80% correct, will I get a 7?"
The answer is: It depends. Unlike traditional systems where a percentage directly correlates to a grade, IB grading is based on subject-specific boundaries, which are updated every exam session.
To truly understand what 80% means in the IB world, you need to look at how the system is structured, how boundaries are set, and how each subject evaluates performance.
The 1 to 7 IB Grading Scale Explained
Each IB subject is graded on a scale of 1 to 7, with:
GradeMeaning
7Excellent – almost perfect command
6Very good – strong grasp with minor errors
5Good – competent with occasional lapses
4Satisfactory – basic understanding
3Limited – significant gaps
2Poor – weak knowledge and skills
1Very poor – minimal achievement
A score of 7 is not awarded simply for scoring 80% or more — instead, it depends on how the grade boundaries are set for that specific subject and session.
Understanding IB Grade Boundaries
Grade boundaries represent the minimum score needed to achieve each grade (1–7) and are not fixed. They vary by:
- Subject
- Level (HL or SL)
- Assessment difficulty
- Global student performance that year
The IB adjusts boundaries each year to maintain fairness, using a combination of statistical analysis, expert judgment, and exam difficulty.
Is 80% Enough for a 7?
The short answer: Sometimes yes, often no.
Here’s how it plays out:
- In subjects like Physics HL, a 7 might require only 68–72%.
- For Math AA SL, a 7 could require 75–80%.
- In essay-heavy subjects like English HL or Business HL, 80% might only yield a 6, depending on quality of content.
So, getting 80% correct doesn’t guarantee a 7, but it places you in a competitive range for many subjects.
Sample Grade Boundaries by Subject
Let’s look at typical 7-grade thresholds from recent IB sessions:
➤ Physics HL
- Approx. 68–72% needed for a 7
➤ Math AA SL
- Approx. 75–80% needed for a 7
➤ Chemistry SL
- Approx. 70–75% needed for a 7
➤ English A Literature HL
- Approx. 82–85% needed for a 7
➤ Biology HL
- Approx. 76–79% needed for a 7
➤ History HL
- Approx. 80–85% needed for a 7
➤ Business Management HL
- Approx. 83–87% needed for a 7
These ranges show how 80% might exceed the threshold for sciences, but fall short in humanities or essay-based subjects.
The Role of Internal and External Assessments
IB subjects typically include both:
- Internal Assessments (IAs): Projects, lab work, orals graded by your teacher and moderated by IB.
- External Assessments: Final exams, essays, and written tasks graded by IB examiners.
Each component has a weight — often 20–30% IA and 70–80% exam. Your final grade reflects the combined performance, not just your test scores.
Examiner Expectations vs Percent Correct
IB assessments are criteria-based, not percentage-based. A student who scores 80% by getting simple questions right may not outperform a student with 75% but stronger analysis, argumentation, and synthesis.
That’s why in subjects like TOK or History, it's not about how many points you get right — it’s about how you answer and how well you meet rubric standards.
Common Misunderstandings About IB Grading
Let’s clear a few myths:
- “80% means I nailed it.”
Not always. In English or History HL, that might only be a 6 if the depth is lacking. - “Grade boundaries are fixed.”
False. They change every year and vary by subject. - “I need 90%+ for a 7.”
Only in rare cases like top-tier humanities.
How to Strategically Aim for a 7
To maximize your chances:
- 📚 Use IB Past Papers: Practice under timed conditions
- 🧠 Understand the Markscheme: Know how answers are evaluated
- 📈 Track Grade Boundaries: Check trends for your subject and level
- 🗂️ Balance Internal and External Assessments: Don’t neglect IAs
- 🕒 Plan Your Revision Early: Aim for understanding, not cramming
What Happens if You Fall Short of 80%?
It’s not the end of the world. Many students score:
- 34–38 total points with no 7s and still get into top universities
- 5s and 6s and still earn the diploma and scholarships
- Core points (TOK + EE) that can lift a 38 to a 40+ score
Diploma success isn’t only about getting 7s.
FAQs
Is 80% a guaranteed 7 in any IB subject?
No. It depends on the subject’s grade boundary that year.
Which IB subject has the lowest boundary for a 7?
Typically Physics HL or Chemistry HL, often around 68–72%.
Are grade boundaries released publicly?
Yes, after each exam session, IB publishes them for schools and students.
How much do grade boundaries change year to year?
They change slightly, often by 1–4%, depending on difficulty and performance trends.
What’s the minimum score for a 7?
It varies — typically 68–87% depending on the subject and session.
Can I retake IB exams to improve my grade?
Yes. IB allows resits in the next session (May or November), though there are fees and registration requirements.
Conclusion: Can You Get a 7 on Most IB Exams If You Get 80% Correct?
Sometimes — but not always.
80% is often enough in STEM subjects, but may fall short in humanities and essay-based courses where higher thresholds exist. The IB grading system is dynamic, subject-specific, and quality-focused.
Instead of chasing a fixed percentage, focus on:
- Meeting marking criteria
- Mastering concepts deeply
- Scoring well on both IA and exams
With the right strategy, a 7 is possible — and an 80% score can get you close.
