Introduction
The IB Visual Arts SL course is ideal for students who want to explore creativity and visual expression while balancing their other IB commitments. Unlike HL, SL students have slightly reduced workload requirements but are still expected to demonstrate artistic skill, critical analysis, and creative thought.
Knowing the grade boundaries for each assessment component helps students track performance and set realistic goals. Below are the official IB Visual Arts SL grade boundaries for 2025 (Timezone 0).
Quick Start Checklist for Visual Arts SL
- ✅ Keep your Comparative Study concise but analytical. Focus on depth, not breadth.
- ✅ Curate a strong selection of artworks for the Exhibition.
- ✅ Show experimentation and reflection in the Process Portfolio.
- ✅ Connect your work to cultural and artistic contexts.
- ✅ Manage time carefully to avoid rushing documentation.
IB Visual Arts SL 2025 Grade Boundaries
Comparative Study (out of 30)
- Grade 7: 27–30
- Grade 6: 23–26
- Grade 5: 19–22
- Grade 4: 15–18
- Grade 3: 10–14
- Grade 2: 5–9
- Grade 1: 0–4
Exhibition (out of 30)
- Grade 7: 25–30
- Grade 6: 20–24
- Grade 5: 16–19
- Grade 4: 11–15
- Grade 3: 7–10
- Grade 2: 4–6
- Grade 1: 0–3
Process Portfolio (out of 34)
- Grade 7: 26–34
- Grade 6: 21–25
- Grade 5: 15–20
- Grade 4: 10–14
- Grade 3: 7–9
- Grade 2: 4–6
- Grade 1: 0–3
Final IB Visual Arts SL Grade Boundaries (out of 100)
- Grade 7: 80–100
- Grade 6: 65–79
- Grade 5: 49–64
- Grade 4: 34–48
- Grade 3: 22–33
- Grade 2: 11–21
- Grade 1: 0–10
Tips for Achieving a Level 7 in Visual Arts SL
- Comparative Study: Focus on analysis of technique and meaning rather than lengthy description.
- Exhibition: Present a coherent theme or artistic voice across works.
- Process Portfolio: Demonstrate exploration, trial and error, and reflection — not just final results.
- Cultural context: Show awareness of global artistic traditions and influences.
- Clarity in presentation: Digital submissions should be well-organized, clean, and easy to follow.
Conclusion
The 2025 IB Visual Arts SL grade boundaries (Timezone 0) give you a clear picture of what’s required to achieve top marks. By balancing artistic experimentation with critical reflection and thoughtful presentation, students can maximize their performance and aim for the coveted Level 7.
