Is It Actually Possible to Get a 45 on the IB Exam? – Truth Behind the Perfect Score

RevisionDojo
3 min read

Quick Answer: Yes, It’s Possible—But Extremely Rare

Achieving a 45/45 on the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme is absolutely possible, but it's an accomplishment that fewer than 1% of IB students worldwide manage each year.

This score reflects flawless performance across:

  • Six academic subjects (all 7s)
  • The Extended Essay (EE)
  • Theory of Knowledge (TOK)
  • Completion of CAS (Creativity, Activity, Service)

🎯 What Does a 45 in IB Mean?

A perfect IB score is calculated as:

  • 6 subjects × max 7 points = 42 points
  • TOK + EE combined = up to 3 bonus points
  • Total = 45 points

To get a 45, a student must:

  • Score 7s in all six subjects (including HL and SL)
  • Earn 3 bonus points (usually via A in both TOK and EE)

📊 How Common Is a 45 in IB?

🌍 Global Statistics

  • On average, only 0.5%–1% of all IB diploma candidates score a 45 each year
  • That’s about 2,000–3,000 students globally out of 180,000+ candidates

🧠 What Type of Student Achieves a 45?

Traits often seen in top IB scorers:

  • Consistent, disciplined study habits
  • Strong analytical and writing skills
  • Mastery of exam techniques, including past paper practice
  • High-level performance in both academics and time management
  • Deep engagement in CAS and meaningful EE topics

📘 Tips to Aim for a 45 (or Close)

  1. Know the Rubrics and Command Terms
    • Understand exactly how your work will be assessed.
  2. Maximize IA Scores
    • Internal assessments are more controllable than final exams.
  3. Master Past Papers
    • Use them to predict trends and practice marking schemes.
  4. Strategize TOK and EE
    • These bonus points can tip you over into 45 territory.
  5. Use Professional Resources
    • Platforms like RevisionDojo offer exam prep, HL/SL walkthroughs, and IA/TOK/EE templates.

🚀 Get Closer to a 45 with RevisionDojo

Even if you're aiming for a 40+, tools from RevisionDojo can help you:

  • ✅ Improve exam writing and analysis
  • ✅ Maximize IA and EE outcomes
  • ✅ Target higher HL subject performance
  • ✅ Learn from real 45-score case studies

👉 Visit RevisionDojo to access expert-level IB support and raise your scoring potential.

FAQs: The 45 in IB

How many people get a 45 in IB?

Roughly 1 in 100 candidates, or about 2,000–3,000 students globally each year.

Can you get into top universities without a 45?

Yes—many elite universities accept students with scores of 38–42, depending on HL subjects and other factors.

Is it worth trying for a 45?

Absolutely. Even if you fall short, striving for 45 pushes you into the 40+ club, which is still exceptional.

Final Verdict:
Yes, a 45 is possible—but rare. It takes focus, planning, and consistent effort. Whether you reach 45 or not, aiming for it can dramatically improve your IB performance and open global university doors.

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