Understand the IB Grading System and Criteria
Before aiming for 7s, it’s crucial to understand what they mean. In the IB Diploma Programme, each subject is graded from 1 to 7, with 7 being the highest. Here's how those grades are awarded:
- Based on external assessments (final exams), internal assessments (IAs), and sometimes oral or coursework components
- Each subject has assessment objectives and command terms that define what examiners are looking for
- HL and SL differ in content depth, but both require high-level thinking to achieve a 7
Read the markbands and grade descriptors in your subject guide—they're your blueprint for success.
Know Your Syllabus Like the Back of Your Hand
Scoring top marks means knowing exactly what you’ll be tested on. Your subject’s official IB syllabus outlines:
- Topic coverage and learning outcomes
- Command terms such as define, explain, evaluate, and compare
- Assessment weightings across papers and IAs
Pro tip: Print the syllabus, highlight key areas, and tick off each topic as you master it.
Build a Study Routine That Works for You
Consistency is more important than intensity. The best students:
- Use daily and weekly study plans
- Break down their time using time-blocking or the Pomodoro technique
- Schedule specific slots for different subjects and IA tasks
Avoiding burnout is key. Plan for breaks, hobbies, and sleep alongside your academics.
Use Active Recall and Spaced Repetition
Memorizing isn’t enough—retrieval practice is essential. Try:
- Flashcards using Anki or Quizlet
- Self-testing on past papers
- Teaching friends or family to explain key concepts
Combine this with spaced repetition, revisiting difficult topics after increasing intervals to solidify your memory.
Practice With Past Papers and Mark Schemes
Past paper practice is non-negotiable. To do it well:
- Start with untimed papers, then move to timed conditions
- Use official mark schemes to see what earns full marks
- Track the types of questions that appear frequently
- Review examiner reports to learn common student mistakes
For essay-based subjects, use model answers to refine your structure and analysis.
Master Time Management Across All Subjects
Balancing six subjects (plus TOK, EE, and CAS) is a huge task. Here’s how to stay on top:
- Identify your strongest and weakest subjects
- Allocate more time to HL subjects and weaker areas
- Create a revision tracker for each paper, topic, and IA deadline
Being organized reduces stress and improves your ability to revise effectively.
Leverage Feedback From Teachers
Every piece of feedback is a stepping stone. Top scorers:
- Ask for detailed critiques of essays, presentations, and practice papers
- Meet with teachers during office hours to clarify uncertainties
- Reflect on corrections and rewrite assignments for mastery
Teachers want to help—you just need to show initiative.
Excel in Internal Assessments (IAs)
Your IAs can account for up to 20-30% of your final grade. Here’s how to ace them:
- Choose a topic that’s interesting and manageable
- Follow the IA criteria word-for-word
- Use data and sources accurately (especially in Sciences, Math, History, and ESS)
- Revise your IA with teacher feedback before final submission
Poor IAs can pull your grade down even if you do well on the exam.
Earn All Core Points From TOK and EE
The TOK and Extended Essay together contribute up to 3 bonus points to your final IB score. Here’s how to secure all 3:
- Choose an EE topic that overlaps with a subject you’re confident in
- Use the TOK essay rubric and focus on clarity, logic, and real-life examples
- Don’t underestimate the TOK Exhibition—it’s worth 33% of the grade
- Get drafts checked early and often
These 3 points can be the difference between a 44 and a perfect 45.
Collaborate With Peers and Use Study Groups
Learning isn’t just a solo sport. Use your peers to:
- Quiz each other on command terms and definitions
- Practice timed essays or problem sets together
- Clarify topics by teaching others
Make sure your group stays focused—quality over quantity matters in group sessions.
Take Care of Your Mental and Physical Health
Your brain performs best when your body is well cared for. Top students:
- Get 7–8 hours of sleep
- Eat balanced meals and stay hydrated
- Take regular exercise or mindful breaks to reduce stress
- Talk to someone when feeling overwhelmed
No grade is worth sacrificing your well-being.
Stay Consistent and Self-Disciplined
Achieving 7s in every subject isn’t about being perfect—it’s about being persistent. You’ll need to:
- Set weekly academic goals (e.g., finish IA draft, review 2 topics)
- Track your performance on mock exams and class tests
- Block distractions (put your phone on Do Not Disturb)
- Celebrate small wins to stay motivated
Discipline builds habits—and habits lead to excellence.
Success Stories: How 45-Scorers Achieved It
Many students who scored a perfect 45 in the IB say:
- They started early, even in Grade 11
- They reviewed past mistakes religiously
- They got all 3 core points and maintained balance, not perfection
Most say they weren’t geniuses—they were strategic, consistent, and coachable.
Conclusion: Your Roadmap to a Perfect IBDP Score
Scoring a 7 in all subjects is rare but absolutely possible with:
- Strategic planning
- Active learning
- Continuous feedback and discipline
Focus on the process, stay curious, and believe in your ability to improve. With the right mindset and effort, you can maximize your IBDP potential.
FAQs
How many students get all 7s in the IBDP?
Only about 1% of IB students worldwide earn a perfect 45, which usually requires 7s in all subjects and full core points.
Is it harder to get 7s in HL or SL?
HL subjects are more challenging, but many students find SLs like Math AA SL or Economics just as tough.
How long should I study per day?
2–3 hours per weekday and 4–6 hours on weekends is common for students aiming for 7s, depending on workload.
What subjects are hardest to get 7s in?
Historically, English A Literature, Physics HL, and Math AA HL are among the hardest due to tough marking.
Can I get 7s without tutoring?
Yes—many students succeed without tutoring by using free resources, peer support, and teacher guidance.
How important are mock exams?
Very. They help track progress, build exam stamina, and simulate real IB conditions.
