Is an IB Score of 40 Really That Good?
Yes. A score of 40 out of 45 in the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme is an outstanding result. It places you well above the global average and firmly among the highest-achieving IB students worldwide.
How an IB 40 Compares Globally
The global IB average typically sits just above 30 points. Most students score somewhere in the high 20s to low 30s.
A score of 40 usually places a student in roughly the top 5–7 percent worldwide. This means you performed consistently at a high level across:
- Higher Level subjects
- Standard Level subjects
- Core components (TOK and the Extended Essay)
It reflects not just intelligence, but sustained discipline, strong exam technique, and the ability to manage a demanding workload over two years.
How Universities View an IB 40
United States
Top U.S. universities consider a 40 to be academically excellent. While admissions decisions are holistic, a score at this level signals that you are well prepared for rigorous university coursework. Many institutions also award course credit or advanced standing for strong Higher Level results.
United Kingdom
For competitive programs at Russell Group universities and for Oxbridge colleges, offers often fall in the high 30s to low 40s. A 40 typically meets or exceeds academic requirements for demanding courses such as law, economics, and some science degrees.
Canada, Australia, and Europe
A 40 is generally more than sufficient for entry into selective programs. In some systems, it can also lead to first-year course exemptions or advanced placement, depending on subject scores.
What an IB 40 Says About You Academically
A score of 40 suggests that you:
