Quick Answer: Yes, a 5 in IB DP Is a Good Score
A score of 5 in an IB Diploma Programme (DP) subject is considered "good" and reflects solid academic achievement. On the IB grading scale (1 to 7), a 5 indicates that you:
- Understand the subject material well
- Can apply knowledge in unfamiliar contexts
- Meet expectations for both SL and HL coursework
🎓 What Does a 5 Mean in the IB Grading Scale?
IB Score Meaning
7: Excellent
6: Very Good
5: Good
4: Satisfactory
3 and below: Below passing
In many IB subjects, 5 is the most commonly awarded score, especially at Higher Level (HL).
🌍 How Does a 5 Compare Globally?
- The average global score per subject in IB is usually around 4.6 to 5.0
- Many students who earn the full IB Diploma have several 5s in their subject list
- Scoring a 5 consistently across subjects can result in a 30–34 overall diploma score, which is above global average
🏫 How Do Universities View a 5 in IB?
United States
- Many U.S. universities grant credit for HL scores of 5 or above
- A 5 in IB is often equivalent to a B or B+ in AP or college-level coursework
United Kingdom
- For competitive programs, a 5 may be acceptable for SL courses
- HL subjects often require a 6 or 7 for top-tier university courses
Canada, Europe, Australia
- A 5 is typically acceptable for entry into a wide range of programs
- May qualify you for credit or exemption in first-year university courses
🎯 When Is a 5 “Good Enough”?
- If your goal is to earn the full IB Diploma (minimum 24 points), then yes—a 5 helps you stay safely above that threshold.
- If applying to moderately selective universities, a 5 is acceptable, especially when combined with strong TOK/EE and CAS performance.
- For competitive fields (medicine, law, engineering) or elite schools, aim for more 6s and 7s.
❓ FAQs: Is a 5 a Good Score in IB DP?
Can you pass IB with mostly 5s?
Yes—most full diploma students graduate with several 5s. It’s a strong core score.
Can I get college credit for a 5?
In many U.S. schools, yes—especially for HL subjects.
Should I be worried about a 5?
Not at all. It shows you have mastered key concepts and can handle university-level thinking.
Is a 5 better than a 90% in school grading?
It depends on the school system, but generally, a 5 is equivalent to a B+/A- range in U.S. grading.
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