What Does a 45 in IB Actually Mean?
The International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme awards a maximum score of 45 points:
- 42 points from six subjects (each out of 7)
- 3 bonus points from Theory of Knowledge (TOK) and the Extended Essay (EE)
A 45 is the ultimate academic achievement in IB—a blend of high performance, consistency, and depth.
How Rare Is a 45?
- Fewer than 1% of global IB candidates score 45 in any given year.
- In 2020, just 0.34% of students achieved a 45, according to IB statistical data.
The Academic Demands of a Perfect IB Score
Scoring a 45 demands:
- Subject excellence in six academic disciplines—usually across languages, math, science, and humanities
- Exceptional essays—the EE and TOK essays must demonstrate original thinking and analytical depth
- Strong time management—juggling CAS, exams, IAs, and school life requires rigorous discipline
What Happened with IB Exams in 2020?
COVID-19 Impact on Assessments
- The May 2020 session was cancelled globally due to the pandemic.
- Students were assessed using a calculated grades system based on:
- Teacher-predicted grades
- Internal assessments (IAs)
- Historical performance of the school
How It Changed the Process
- No formal written exams were held
- Some students felt underrated or overrated due to the model used
- Discrepancies occurred across regions and schools
Was It Easier or Harder to Score a 45 in 2020?
Mixed Outcomes
- Some students found it easier to score high due to strong internal marks and supportive teachers
- Others suffered from conservative predictions or inconsistencies in the algorithm
What the Data Says
Despite the new grading system, the proportion of perfect scores remained low, suggesting the process still maintained a high standard.
How to Realistically Aim for a 45 in IB
Even though 2020 is behind us, the fundamentals for success remain the same:
- Choose subjects strategically—balance your strengths with university requirements
- Perfect your IAs—they can boost your grade even before the final exam
- Prioritize EE and TOK early—these 3 bonus points are make-or-break for 45
- Practice past papers—especially in HL subjects where 7s are harder to earn
- Track your progress—use a study plan to avoid burnout and ensure balance
Common Myths About the IB 45 Score
- Myth: “Only geniuses get 45”
Reality: Top scores come from planning, resilience, and feedback—not just intelligence. - Myth: “You have to ace every exam”
Reality: Strategic performance, not perfection, across assessments is the key. - Myth: “45 is required for Ivy League”
Reality: Many top schools accept students in the 40–44 range, especially with strong ECs and essays.
FAQs – Scoring 45 in IB
How many students scored 45 in 2020?
Roughly 0.34% of all diploma candidates in 2020 scored a perfect 45.
Can I still get into top schools without 45?
Absolutely. Most top universities consider 40–44 as excellent.
What’s the hardest subject to get a 7 in?
Subjects like HL Math AA, Physics, and Literature are often seen as the toughest.
Do predicted grades affect final IB results?
In 2020, yes. Predicted grades heavily influenced the final result due to exam cancellations.
Can resits improve my score to 45?
Yes—resitting exams in the next session can boost your overall total if done strategically.
Should I even aim for 45?
Aim high, but focus on learning and growth. Scoring 42+ is already extraordinary and opens many doors.
Achieve Your Best IB Score with RevisionDojo
Ready to push your limits?
- 🧠 Get custom feedback on TOK, EE, and IAs
- 📘 Learn how top students structured their 45-score schedules
- 📝 Master past paper strategy with real-world exam simulations
👉 Aim for excellence with RevisionDojo — proven tools for scoring high in IB, no matter the year.
