Understanding How IB Grades Are Calculated
The IB Diploma Programme is assessed out of 45 points:
- 6 subjects × 7 points = 42 points
- Up to 3 bonus points from TOK and EE
- A minimum of 24 points is required to earn the diploma
Each subject includes:
- External exams (Paper 1, 2, and sometimes 3)
- Internal Assessments (IAs)—worth 20–30%
Higher Level (HL) subjects typically require deeper content understanding and more complex assessments.
Time Management Strategies for IB Students
⏱️ Weekly Planning
- Break down your week by subjects and priorities
- Set fixed times for homework, revision, and CAS activities
📅 Block-Based Study
- Use the Pomodoro method: 25 min focused + 5 min break
- Assign 1–2 Pomodoros per subject daily, especially HLs
⚖️ Balance Is Key
- Schedule in exercise, social time, and rest to avoid burnout
- Use apps like Notion or Google Calendar for visual planning
Study Methods That Work Best for IB
🧠 Active Recall
- Use flashcards (e.g., Anki, Quizlet) to test knowledge
- Practice short-answer questions for every unit
🧠 Spaced Repetition
- Revisit material weekly for long-term memory retention
- Prioritize harder or forgotten content
📘 Tailored Approaches
- Sciences: focus on concept maps and diagrams
- Humanities: practice essay planning and argument building
- Math: emphasize worked problems and pattern spotting
How to Use Past Papers Effectively
📂 Organization
- Collect official IBO past papers and categorize by topic
- Create a tracker to monitor performance
⏱️ Practice Under Timed Conditions
- Replicate test conditions with strict timing
- Practice pacing strategies for long-answer sections
📑 Use Markschemes and Examiner Reports
- Learn how marks are awarded
- Study sample high-level answers
Excelling in Internal Assessments (IAs)
📝 Know the Criteria
- Each IA has detailed rubrics—read them early
🚫 Common Pitfalls:
- Vague hypotheses, lack of personal engagement, weak analysis
✅ Success Formula:
- Choose a topic you're passionate about
- Show clear methodology and critical reflection
- Ask for feedback from teachers before final submission
Maximize Your Extended Essay and TOK Essay
📘 Choosing a Strong EE Topic:
- Link it to your future major or interests
- Ensure enough resources exist to support deep research
✍️ TOK Success Tips:
- Use real-life examples and original analysis
- Stick to the prescribed title format
- Avoid generic statements and focus on nuance
Subject-Specific Tips for IB Success
🔢 Math
- Understand formula derivations, not just the answers
- Practice data-based and real-life modeling questions
🧪 Sciences
- Draw and label key diagrams (heart, kidney, mitosis)
- Master data analysis and experimental design
📚 Humanities
- Plan structured essays using PEEL or SEEL format
- Use evidence from case studies or literature effectively
🌍 Languages
- Read/listen to authentic content (news, films, short stories)
- Practice oral presentations and structured writing
Building a Support System
👥 Peer Collaboration
- Join study groups or create a shared Google Doc per subject
🧑🏫 Get Targeted Help
- Use IB-focused tutors or platforms like RevisionDojo
🧘♀️ Stay Mentally Healthy
- Take breaks, journal, and avoid perfectionism
- Celebrate small wins (e.g., finishing a unit or submitting an IA)
FAQs – Getting High Grades in the IB
Is a 7 in IB realistic?
Yes, with consistent work, excellent IAs, and strong exams, students can achieve 7s in individual subjects.
What if I struggle in one HL subject?
Aim for 5s or higher in your HLs and let your SLs and core compensate if needed.
Can I improve my predicted grades?
Yes—show progress in classwork and submit IA drafts that reflect your potential.
How many hours should I study daily?
2–3 hours of focused work per day is ideal, increasing near exams.
What are quick wins before exams?
- Review past paper questions by topic
- Focus on markscheme language
- Re-do questions you previously missed
How do universities view mid-30s scores?
Very favorably—32–36 is the admission range for many selective schools worldwide.
Boost Your IB Grades With RevisionDojo
🎯 RevisionDojo is built for IB students who want results:
- 📘 Past paper bootcamps with real-time feedback
- 📊 IA and EE guidance to maximize core points
- ✍️ Essay review and subject-specific strategies
👉 Visit RevisionDojo to level up your IB journey now.
