What Does It Mean to Score a 45 in the IB?
A perfect 45 in the IB Diploma Programme is the highest score a student can earn. It's made up of:
- 42 points from six subjects (each worth up to 7 points)
- 3 bonus points from the Extended Essay (EE) and Theory of Knowledge (TOK)
To achieve this, you must:
- Score mostly 7s in your subjects
- Get at least an A in EE and TOK
- Submit high-quality Internal Assessments (IAs)
- Perform excellently on exam papers
How Rare Is a 45 in the IB Diploma Programme?
- Fewer than 2% of students globally score a 45 each year.
- In 2023, approximately 2,600 students out of 180,000+ achieved it.
- 45s are more common in:
- Schools with strong IB traditions
- Students with previous MYP or advanced academic backgrounds
- Highly motivated and well-supported environments
Characteristics of Students Who Score 45
🎯 Academic Habits:
- Focused study sessions using active recall
- Consistent review and spaced repetition
- Practice with past papers and mark schemes
🧠 Mindset and Discipline:
- Growth mindset: they view challenges as chances to improve
- Self-discipline with balanced routines
- Willingness to ask for help early
🧑🏫 Support Systems:
- Encouraging teachers and mentors
- Structured feedback from tutors
- Strong peer accountability
Common Misconceptions About Scoring 45
❌ "Only geniuses get 45"
- False. Many 45 scorers are average students who studied strategically and consistently.
❌ "You must sacrifice your life"
- Not true. Success comes from balance, not burnout. Many top scorers still played sports, had social lives, and enjoyed hobbies.
❌ "You just need luck"
- While exams can vary, luck plays a minor role compared to consistent, smart effort.
Strategic Planning for a 45
🔍 Choose Subjects Wisely:
- Go for HL subjects you enjoy and can excel in.
- Pick SL subjects where you can maximize your time.
🗂️ Internal Assessments (IAs):
- Draft early and seek feedback
- Use examiner reports to understand scoring criteria
📜 EE and TOK:
- Start early—do NOT rush these
- Use the EE to explore a passion or field of study
- Practice writing with argument depth for TOK essays
Daily and Weekly Habits That Lead to 45
- Weekdays: 2–4 hours of focused study
- Weekends: 4–6 hours of deep work
- Regular breaks, exercise, and sleep
- Mock exams under timed conditions every few weeks
- Review of past paper feedback and scoring rubrics
Real-Life Stories From 45/45 IB Graduates
“I wasn’t a genius, just someone who started early and didn’t give up.” – Aanya, 45/45, India
“My IA drafts were done by October. That gave me time to focus on exams later.” – Lucas, 45/45, Brazil
“I used past papers weekly and marked my own work like an examiner.” – Rachel, 45/45, UK
These students weren’t perfect—they were prepared.
FAQs – Getting a 45 in IB
Can you get a 45 with a weak subject?
It’s tough. You’ll need to overperform in other subjects or ace your EE and TOK.
What if you miss the bonus points?
Even without 3 bonus points, you can still get a 42. But to reach 45, you must aim for at least 2 bonus points.
Do 45 scorers get into Ivy League or Oxbridge?
Yes, but remember—universities look at more than your score, including essays, activities, and recommendations.
Is it worth the pressure?
Only if your goals align with that ambition. A 45 opens doors, but so does a well-rounded 42 or 43.
Can I still enjoy high school?
Yes—many 45 scorers recommend scheduling time for rest and hobbies.
Should I retake if I got a 44?
Only if it significantly impacts your university plans. In most cases, 44 is still world-class.
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