Understanding IB Grade Boundaries
IB grade boundaries define the minimum exam scores required to earn each grade from 1 to 7 in different subjects. These boundaries are determined after exams are marked, accounting for factors like exam difficulty, overall cohort performance, and subject-specific requirements. (revisiondojo.com)
Why Grade Boundaries Aren’t Fixed
- Exam Difficulty: Tougher exams lead to lower grade boundaries.
- Global Performance Trends: If students perform exceptionally well or poorly across a session, boundaries are adjusted.
- Subject Variation: Essay-based subjects often require higher raw scores for the same grade compared to calculation-based subjects. (revisiondojo.com)
Grade boundaries ensure fairness and consistency, not predictability.
Typical Percentages Needed for a 7
Based on recent trends, here are approximate percentage ranges for a top grade:
- Physics HL: ~68–72%
- Math AA SL: ~75–80%
- Chemistry SL: ~70–75%
- English A Literature HL: ~82–85%
- Biology HL: ~76–79% (revisiondojo.com)
What this shows: 80% isn’t always a guarantee of a 7, especially in essay or arts-based subjects.
