If you're an IB student preparing for university applications, you’ve likely been told: “Predicted grades are everything.” But how much do predicted grades actually matter?
The truth? Predicted grades do matter a lot—especially for early decisions and conditional offers—but they’re not the only thing universities consider. In this guide, we’ll break down how important predicted grades are, when they matter most, and what you can do if yours aren’t as high as you hoped.
What Are Predicted Grades?
Predicted grades are the teacher-assessed estimates of what score you’re likely to achieve in each of your six IB subjects. These predictions are submitted to universities before your final exams and are used for:
- University admissions decisions
- Scholarship applications
- Internal IB documentation
When Do Predicted Grades Matter the Most?
1. For Conditional Offers (UK, Canada, Australia)
- Universities like Oxford, Cambridge, UCL, or Toronto use predicted grades to offer conditional places.
- If you fall below the entry threshold, your application might be rejected automatically.
2. For Early Decisions (US and Europe)
- In the US, while GPA and essays are key, some universities ask for predicted IB grades as additional evidence.
- In parts of Europe, predictions help gauge if you’ll meet admission benchmarks.
3. For Scholarships or Honors Programs
- Some merit-based programs require predicted 40+ points or specific HL scores.
Importance of Predicted Grades by Region
- UK
- Extremely high – forms the basis of conditional university offers
- Canada
- High – especially important for early admissions decisions
- US
- Medium – part of a holistic review alongside GPA, essays, and extracurriculars
- Australia
- High – used to determine ATAR/IB equivalency for university entry
- Europe
- Varies – may be considered with entrance exams, interviews, or national requirements
What If My Predicted Grades Are Too Low?
Low predicted grades can feel discouraging—but they’re not the end of the road.
- Speak to your teacher respectfully with evidence of improvement.
- Strengthen other parts of your application—personal statement, references, EE, and CAS.
- Apply strategically to universities that review final grades or allow post-results applications.
- Prepare for final exams with tools like RevisionDojo to exceed predictions and qualify later through Clearing or reapplication.
What Matters Besides Predicted Grades?
Predicted grades are one piece of the puzzle. Universities also care about:
- GPA and transcript performance over time
- Personal statements and motivation letters
- Teacher recommendations
- Extended Essay and TOK scores
- Extracurriculars and leadership (CAS)
- Admissions tests and interviews
Holistic admissions systems—like those in the US and some EU countries—look beyond scores to assess character, commitment, and curiosity.
Tips to Improve or Offset Predicted Grades
- Ask your teacher how you can raise your prediction through assessments, IA, or participation
- Use RevisionDojo to practice IB-style questions and build exam confidence
- Focus on your Internal Assessments—they can influence final results
- Prepare to outperform your predictions and update universities during or after results season
Try it here:
👉 RevisionDojo IB Practice Tools
FAQs About Predicted Grades and Their Impact
Q1: Can a university reject me just because of predicted grades?
Yes, especially in the UK or Canada where early decisions rely on predictions.
Q2: Do final grades matter more than predictions?
Ultimately, yes. You must meet conditions or use final results for reapplication.
Q3: Can teachers change my predicted grades?
Sometimes—if you show progress and request respectfully with evidence.
Q4: Are predicted grades used in US college admissions?
Sometimes, but GPA, SAT/ACT scores, and essays carry more weight.
Q5: What if I exceed my predicted grades?
You can access Clearing, defer reapplication, or appeal offers in some cases.
Q6: How can I track progress toward my predicted goals?
Use tools like RevisionDojo for performance feedback and revision plans.
Final Thoughts: Predicted Grades Matter—But They’re Not Everything
Yes, predicted grades are important. They open doors and shape your early options. But they don’t define you. With smart planning, ethical revision, and tools like RevisionDojo, you can exceed expectations—on your terms.
So focus on what you can control, prepare strategically, and remember: the best predictor of success is your effort—not just your prediction.
