Introduction
One of the most stressful moments for IB students is receiving their predicted grades. These grades, given by teachers before final exams, are used for university applications and reflect how teachers believe you will perform.
But what exactly do predicted grades mean? How are they calculated? And most importantly, how can you improve your IB predicted grades before final exams?
This guide breaks down everything you need to know about interpreting predicted grades and strategies to boost them.
What Are IB Predicted Grades?
Predicted grades are the scores (1–7) that your teachers expect you to achieve in your final IB exams. They are submitted to the IB and universities months before final exams.
- They are not final grades, but estimates.
- They are based on your performance in class, coursework, and mock exams.
- They help universities decide on conditional offers.
How Are Predicted Grades Calculated?
Teachers use a combination of:
- Class performance: Homework, tests, and participation.
- Mock exam results: Often the biggest influence.
- Internal Assessments (IAs): Since these are officially moderated, strong IAs boost predictions.
- Consistency: Teachers look at long-term performance, not one-off results.
Predicted grades are usually conservative but realistic.
Why Predicted Grades Matter
- University Applications
- Most universities make conditional offers based on predicted grades.
- A strong set of predicted grades increases your options.
- Motivation
- They give you a benchmark to work toward.
- They can highlight strengths and weaknesses.
- Confidence
- Knowing where you stand helps you focus your revision strategically.
Interpreting Your Predicted Grades
- If they’re high: Great news, but don’t relax — you still need to achieve them in finals.
- If they’re average: See them as motivation to improve through targeted revision.
- If they’re low: Don’t panic. Predicted grades don’t determine your final IB score, and you can still exceed them in exams.
How to Improve Predicted Grades
1. Perform Strongly in Mock Exams
Mocks are usually the last big chance to influence predictions. Treat them like the real exam — timed, serious, and fully revised.
2. Engage Actively in Class
Teachers notice effort. Asking questions, participating in discussions, and showing commitment can sway borderline predictions.
3. Strengthen Your IAs
Since Internal Assessments contribute to your final grade, improving them shows teachers you’re capable of higher marks.
4. Use Practice Papers Strategically
Doing past papers under exam conditions and sharing your results with teachers proves your improvement.
5. Communicate With Your Teachers
Show your teachers evidence of progress — improved scores, extra practice, and commitment. This builds trust in your ability.
Common Misconceptions About Predicted Grades
- “They determine my final IB score.” Wrong — only your exams and IAs matter.
- “Low predictions mean I’ll fail.” Not true. Many students outperform predictions.
- “They can’t be improved.” While not easy, consistent effort before submission can raise them.
- “They’re unfair.” Predictions are based on evidence, though they may not always feel accurate.
FAQs About IB Predicted Grades
1. Do universities ever ignore predicted grades?
Most universities rely on them, but some may also consider personal statements, interviews, or entrance exams.
2. Can predicted grades be changed after they’re submitted?
Usually no, but in rare cases teachers may update them if major new evidence emerges.
3. What if my final grades are higher than my predicted grades?
That’s common. Universities accept final results as the true measure.
4. Can low predicted grades stop me from getting into university?
Yes, for some highly competitive programs, but you can still apply strategically to a range of universities.
5. How much higher can I score compared to my predictions?
Many students outperform predictions by 1–2 points per subject with focused effort.
Conclusion
IB predicted grades can feel intimidating, but they are not destiny. They are simply an estimate of your performance at the time they are given. With the right mindset and strategies — strong mocks, active engagement, improved IAs, and consistent practice — you can raise your predicted grades and approach final exams with confidence.
Remember: universities value effort and progress, not just numbers.
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