Understanding the IB Scoring System
The International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme is scored out of a maximum of 45 points:
- 6 subjects × max 7 points = 42 points
- Up to 3 bonus points from Extended Essay (EE) and Theory of Knowledge (TOK)
- Minimum passing score: 24 points
- Must complete CAS, score at least 12 across HL subjects, and not fail core components
So, a 31/45 score is well above the minimum required and indicates strong academic ability across a broad curriculum.
Is 31 a Good Score in the Context of Global Averages?
🌍 Global Statistics
According to IBO data from recent years:
- The average IB diploma score ranges from 30 to 31 points
- Many students score between 28 and 34
- Only ~10% score 40 or above
✅ So What Does 31 Mean?
- You're above average
- Your score likely includes mostly 5s and some 6s
- You are eligible for a wide range of universities across the world
What Universities Can You Get Into With a 31?
🎓 UK Universities:
- University of Exeter, Royal Holloway, University of Kent, and Cardiff University accept 30–32 IB scores.
- For less competitive courses (e.g., arts, social sciences), Queen Mary University, Sussex, and Reading are solid options.
🇨🇦 Canadian Universities:
- Carleton, Dalhousie, York, and University of Guelph consider 28–32 range competitive.
- Many schools offer direct scholarships for IB diplomas above 30.
🇺🇸 U.S. Colleges:
- Liberal arts colleges like Beloit, Eckerd, Drew, and Allegheny welcome IB 30+ students.
- Your score is viewed alongside your GPA, essays, and extracurriculars.
🌏 Australia and Asia:
- University of Sydney, University of Queensland, and Monash accept 28–31 IB points for many programs.
Academic Strengths Reflected by a 31
- A 31 shows consistency across subjects—usually a mix of 5s and 6s.
- Indicates that you’ve managed time well, completed IAs, and passed core components.
- In highly competitive high schools, a 31 may represent top-30% standing.
Can You Improve on a 31 Before Final Exams?
Yes. Predicted grades are not final and can improve with focused effort.
📘 Boosting Strategy:
- Practice past papers and correct with markschemes
- Refine IAs with teacher feedback
- Study high-weighted HL topics and improve consistency
- A 2–4 point increase is very possible in 3–6 months
Common Misconceptions About Mid-Range IB Scores
❌ “Only 40+ gets you into good universities”
- Totally false. Most university offers fall between 30–38 points.
❌ “31 means you won’t succeed academically”
- Many IB 30–33 students do extremely well in university, where the teaching pace is more flexible.
❌ “No scholarships under 36”
- Lots of mid-tier universities offer scholarships for 30+ with strong essays or extracurriculars.
FAQs – Understanding a 31 in the IB
Is 31 enough to get the diploma?
Absolutely. You’re 7 points above the minimum, and well within the global norm.
Can I get into medicine or law with 31?
You’ll need higher scores for competitive fields, but 31 can work for pre-law, health sciences, or allied programs.
Does the EE or TOK affect this score?
Yes—up to 3 bonus points come from EE and TOK. A 31 often includes 1–2 bonus points.
Is 31 enough for scholarships?
Yes, particularly at private universities and international programs.
Should I retake exams to get higher?
Not unless you're aiming for a highly competitive course or university. Many institutions accept 30–32 happily.
How will universities interpret 31 predicted vs final?
They use predicted for offers, but final scores for confirmation. Doing slightly better in finals can secure scholarships or rejections turned into acceptances.
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- Craft realistic plans to move from 31 to 34+
- Boost HL scores with smart review and past paper analysis
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- Match your score to the right university targets
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