The IB Diploma Programme is one of the most challenging academic programs worldwide. With that intensity comes pressure—especially around your Higher Level (HL) subjects. But what happens if you pass most of your exams but fail one HL subject?
Let’s break it down clearly so you know exactly what to expect, and how to move forward.
Can You Still Get the IB Diploma If You Fail an HL Subject?
It depends on your overall performance. The IB diploma is awarded based on a set of rules that combine your total points and specific conditions across subjects.
You can still earn the diploma if you fail one HL subject as long as the following conditions are met:
IB Diploma Award Rules (2025)
To earn the IB diploma, students must meet all of the following:
- Score at least 24 total points across six subjects
- Have no more than one score of 2 at HL or SL
- Score at least 12 points total from your three HL subjects
- Score at least 9 points total from your three SL subjects
- Earn at least a D in both TOK and EE combined (or higher)
- Complete CAS requirements satisfactorily
- No grade 1 in any subject
Examples of HL Failure Scenarios
Here’s how different situations can play out:
- Scenario A: You score 3 in one HL subject, but your other HLs are 5 and 4 → total HL points = 12 → Diploma awarded ✅
- Scenario B: You score 2 in one HL, 5 and 4 in others → total HL points = 11 → Diploma not awarded ❌
- Scenario C: You get a 1 in any subject (HL or SL) → Automatic fail ❌
- Scenario D: You get a 2 in HL and 2 in SL → exceeds limit of one score of 2 → Diploma not awarded ❌
What If You Don’t Get the Diploma Due to Failing an HL Subject?
You still have options:
- Retake the HL subject in the next session (May or November)
- Retake multiple subjects to improve your total score or meet the HL point rule
- Use your individual subject certificates for university or career applications
- Some universities may still admit you with strong performance in other areas
Can You Retake an HL Subject?
Yes. IB allows up to three exam sessions over three years.
- You can reuse your IA or submit a new one
- You must retake all external papers for that subject
- You’ll need to register with an IB school for the retake
How to Recover and Prepare for a Retake
If you’re planning to retake a failed HL subject:
- Review the examiner’s comments (if available)
- Identify whether it was content, timing, or technique that let you down
- Focus your revision around past paper practice
- Use ethical revision platforms like RevisionDojo to build confidence and skill
Why Use RevisionDojo for HL Retakes?
RevisionDojo is built for IB students looking to improve, especially under pressure:
- Provides subject-specific practice for HL topics
- Simulates Paper 1, 2, and 3 with markschemes and feedback
- Offers diagnostic tools to find your weak areas
- Helps you structure a retake plan ethically—no cheating, no leaks
Try it here: RevisionDojo IB Retake Tools
What to Tell Universities If You Fail an HL Subject
- Be honest—most admissions teams value transparency
- Show your strengths in other subjects or core components
- Explain mitigating circumstances (e.g., health, mental stress) if applicable
- Mention your plans to retake and improve
Some universities are flexible, especially with strong predicted grades or alternative credentials.
FAQs: Failing HL Subjects in the IB
Q1: Can I still get the diploma with a 2 in one HL subject?
Only if your total HL score is 12 or more, and no other rule is broken.
Q2: What happens if I fail two HL subjects?
You won’t get the diploma unless you retake and improve your scores.
Q3: Will a failed HL subject affect university offers?
It might. Some universities require passing grades in all HL subjects. Others consider your full profile.
Q4: Can I redo the EE or TOK to recover points?
Yes. You can retake or rewrite these components to improve your core points.
Q5: Is it better to retake just the HL or also boost my SLs?
Depends on your scores. Aim to meet the 12 HL and 9 SL point thresholds.
Q6: Can I switch subjects for my retake?
No. A retake must be in the same subject and level unless you start a new course path.
Final Thoughts: One HL Failure Isn’t the End
Failing one HL subject doesn’t automatically block your diploma—but it does complicate things. The key is knowing the rules, reviewing your total performance, and using resources like RevisionDojo to bounce back stronger.
You’re not defined by one subject. With focus, you can recover—and thrive.
