Quick Answer: A 36 in IB is Generally Equivalent to a 3.8–4.0 GPA
The IB Diploma score out of 45 and the U.S. GPA out of 4.0 are two different systems, but admissions officers convert IB scores when evaluating applicants.
A 36 in IB is widely regarded as equivalent to a 3.8–4.0 GPA, depending on the conversion scale used by the institution.
📊 Score Comparison: IB 36 vs GPA 3.8
- IB Score: 45
🎓 Equivalent GPA: 4.0+ (Valedictorian level) - IB Score: 40–42
🎓 Equivalent GPA: 3.95–4.0 - IB Score: 36
🎓 Equivalent GPA: 3.8–3.9 - IB Score: 30
🎓 Equivalent GPA: 3.5–3.6 - IB Score: 28
🎓 Equivalent GPA: 3.3–3.4
Note: Some U.S. schools even weight IB HL subjects, meaning a 36 could be seen as even stronger than a 3.8 unweighted GPA.
🏫 How Colleges View IB vs GPA
- GPA reflects cumulative grades over 4 years.
- IB score reflects 2 years of advanced study and international exams.
Universities—especially in the U.S., UK, and Canada—often view a 36 IB score more favorably than a standard GPA, due to the:
- Academic rigor
- Core components (TOK, EE, CAS)
- Global standardization
🎯 What a 36 in IB Tells Universities
- You're above the global average (IB average is ~30)
- You’ve performed consistently in six rigorous subjects
- You’ve demonstrated research, time management, and critical thinking skills
In short: IB 36 = strong college applicant, often competitive for selective institutions.
🤔 FAQs About IB 36 vs GPA
Is 36 good enough for top universities?
Yes. A 36 is competitive for many top 50 U.S. universities, Russell Group UK schools, and Canadian universities.
Is GPA easier than IB?
Generally yes. The IB is considered more rigorous and standardized.
Can a 36 get me scholarships?
Yes—many merit-based scholarships begin around IB 34–38.
What if I have a 3.8 GPA and no IB?
That’s still strong, but IB adds depth and global credibility to your profile.
📘 Conclusion: Which Is Better – IB 36 or 3.8 GPA?
It depends on the context, but in most cases:
- A 36 in IB shows greater rigor and consistency
- A 3.8 GPA is strong, but less standardized across schools
If you’re an IB student with a 36, you’re likely in the top tier of applicants—and may stand out even more than someone with just a 3.8 GPA.
🚀 Want to Convert Your IB Score Into College Success?
RevisionDojo helps IB students like you maximize the value of every point with:
- ✅ IB-to-GPA conversion tools
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- ✅ Exam, EE, TOK, and IA resources
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👉 Visit RevisionDojo and turn your 36 into a powerful university application asset!
