Introduction to the IB Points System
The International Baccalaureate (IB) is a globally recognized educational framework known for its academic rigor and holistic approach. At the heart of the IB Diploma Programme (DP) lies a unique points-based system that determines whether a student earns their diploma—and how well they perform.
If you're a student, parent, or educator wondering how IB points work, this guide will break it down clearly and simply.
Subject Scores: The 1 to 7 Scale
Each IB subject is graded on a scale from 1 to 7:
- 7 – Excellent performance
- 6 – Very good
- 5 – Good
- 4 – Satisfactory
- 3 – Mediocre
- 2 – Poor
- 1 – Very poor (failing)
Grades are awarded based on external exams, internal assessments (IA), and overall subject criteria. These components are weighted and combined to determine your final mark.
The Six Subjects and Their Contributions
IB students take six subjects:
- One from each of the six groups (e.g., Language & Literature, Sciences, Mathematics, etc.)
- Or replace the Arts group with another subject from Groups 1–5
- Typically, 3 subjects are taken at Higher Level (HL) and 3 at Standard Level (SL)
Each subject contributes a maximum of 7 points, so:
- 6 subjects × 7 points = 42 total possible points
No subject counts more than the others in raw point value, but HL subjects often require more content and depth.
Understanding the Core Components (TOK, EE, CAS)
Beyond the six subjects, IB students must complete three core components:
Theory of Knowledge (TOK)
- A reflective course about how knowledge is acquired
- Assessed via an essay and an oral presentation
Extended Essay (EE)
- A 4,000-word research paper on a topic of the student’s choice
Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS)
- Involves engagement in extracurricular, physical, and community service activities
- CAS is not graded, but it is required for the diploma
Bonus Points
- TOK and EE are graded and combined on a matrix to award up to 3 additional points
- These bonus points make the maximum total score 45 points
Maximum Score and Passing Requirements
To earn the IB Diploma, students must:
- Score at least 24 points total
- No grade of 1 in any subject
- No more than two grade 2s, across HL and SL
- Minimum of 12 points across HL subjects
- Minimum of 9 points across SL subjects
- Complete all core requirements (CAS, TOK, EE)
Maximum Possible Score: 45 Points
- 42 points from subjects
- +3 points from the TOK/EE matrix
Only a small percentage of students achieve the full 45, but it is possible!
Grade Boundaries and How They Change
Each year, the IB sets grade boundaries to determine what percentage corresponds to each grade. These boundaries:
- Are based on global performance and exam difficulty
- Change slightly every year
- Are crucial to determining your final subject scores
For example, scoring 78% on an HL Chemistry exam may earn a 6 one year, and a 7 another year, depending on that year's boundaries.
How Universities Interpret IB Points
Universities around the world accept and often prefer IB students for their:
- Academic depth and breadth
- Strong research and writing skills
- Global perspective
Many institutions:
- Require predicted IB scores during the application process
- Set IB-specific entry requirements, such as 36 points or higher
- May offer scholarships or course exemptions based on your IB performance
In the U.S., some universities convert IB scores into college credits, allowing students to skip introductory courses.
Common Student Questions About IB Scoring
- How hard is it to get a 7?
Very—only about 7–9% of students achieve a 7 in most subjects. - Can I fail one subject and still pass the diploma?
You can score poorly in a subject, but you must meet the overall point and core requirements. - What if I get a 2 in HL?
You may still pass, but your other HL scores must bring the total HL score to at least 12 points.
Tips to Maximize Your IB Score
- Use past papers and mark schemes to understand how questions are graded
- Focus on the command terms in each question (e.g., define, evaluate, compare)
- Practice time management across all six subjects
- Work consistently on your IA, EE, and CAS, and get feedback early
- Aim to perform well in TOK and EE to earn extra points
Conclusion: Making Sense of the IB Points System
The IB points system may seem complex at first, but it’s designed to reward comprehensive understanding, research skills, and global awareness. Whether you’re aiming for a 24 or a 45, every point is earned through effort, strategy, and balance.
By understanding how points are awarded, you’ll be better prepared to plan your workload, monitor your progress, and meet your diploma goals.
FAQs
How many points do you need to pass the IB?
You need at least 24 points, plus completion of all core components.
What’s the highest IB score ever?
The highest possible score is 45 points. Only about 1% of students achieve this annually.
Do all subjects count equally?
Yes, each subject counts for up to 7 points, whether HL or SL.
Can you retake IB exams?
Yes, students can retake exams in the next session (May or November) to improve scores.
Is the IB score internationally valid?
Yes, IB scores are recognized by universities and colleges worldwide.
How are IA scores factored in?
Each subject has a component called the Internal Assessment, typically worth 20–30% of the final score.
