Introduction
Ask five IB students what a “good” IB score is and you’ll get five different answers. That’s because a good IB Diploma score is contextual—it depends on your university goals, your starting point, your subject choices, and even your country.
So, what is a good score in the IB Diploma? This guide will break it down so you can measure your own success—realistically and confidently.
Understanding the IB Scoring System
The IB Diploma is scored out of 45 points:
- 6 subjects × maximum 7 points each = 42 points
- 3 bonus points available for Theory of Knowledge (TOK) and the Extended Essay (EE)
To earn the diploma, you need:
- A minimum of 24 points (with conditions)
- No score lower than 3 in any subject
- Satisfactory completion of CAS
What’s the Global Average IB Score?
Each year, the global average varies slightly:
- Typical average: 29–31 points
- Around 80% of students pass the IB
- Fewer than 10% score above 40
This means if you score above 34, you're already well above global average.
What Universities Consider a Good IB Score
It depends on the country and course:
- UK:
- Top unis (Oxbridge): 38–42+
- Russell Group: 34–37
- General programs: 28–33
- US:
- Uses holistic admissions
- 30–35 is strong, especially with good HLs
- Bonus: some schools offer college credit for HL 5+
- Canada:
- UBC, Toronto, McGill: 30–36+
- Entry programs start around 28
- Europe:
- Dutch, German, and Swiss universities: 28–34 depending on subject
- Engineering and medicine often require 35+
- Asia & Australia:
- HKU, NUS, ANU: 32–38 for top programs
- Others accept 28–32 with strong support materials
Breaking Down the Score Tiers
Score Range
What It Means
24–28: Diploma pass level; enough for many programs
29–34: Solid performance; above global average
35–38: Competitive for top global universities
39–45: Outstanding; rare and elite
Why a “Good Score” Depends on Your Goals
Define your “good” by:
- Your dream school
- Your starting level—going from a 24 to a 32 is a big win!
- Your field of interest (medicine vs. art school have different demands)
- Whether you want scholarships, prestige, or personal growth
Top IB Scores and What They Represent
A perfect 45 is earned by fewer than 1% of students globally. Even a 42+ is rare.
If you're in the 40+ range, you're considered elite in most systems—especially if your HL subjects align with your intended university major.
How HL Subject Scores Impact Your Application
HLs often matter more than your total score.
- For STEM: HL Math and HL Science scores are crucial
- For Humanities: HL English or History may be heavily weighted
- Even with a modest total, strong HLs can keep you competitive
Do Bonus Points from TOK and EE Matter?
Absolutely. That 1–3 point bonus can:
- Push you from 27 to a diploma
- Bump you into a higher admissions tier
- Show universities that you can handle research and critical thinking
Even 1 bonus point can make the difference in competitive applications.
Can a Good Score Offset a Weak IA or Subject?
Yes. The IB is holistic in assessment:
- If one subject is weak (e.g., a 4), strong scores in others can compensate
- A well-executed EE or CAS portfolio adds depth
- Focus on raising your average and don’t let one bad paper define your outcome
What Counts as a Good Score for Scholarships?
- Merit scholarships often start around 34–36+
- Need-based aid is less focused on score, but a higher score improves competitiveness
- Some international awards target students in the 30+ range with strong personal statements
What If You Just Want to Pass the Diploma?
That’s a valid goal. Focus on:
- Avoiding any score below a 3
- Meeting all IA and core requirements
- Leveraging your strongest subjects to lift your average
Even a 24–28 score opens up real options for university, especially with the right support.
Can You Still Succeed Without a High Score?
Yes. Many successful professionals and graduates didn’t ace the IB:
- Use foundation years, diplomas, or transfers
- Consider retaking one or two subjects if needed
- Focus on what comes next—internships, real-world experience, and career development
RevisionDojo’s IB Score Booster Strategy
At RevisionDojo, we help students improve their IB score with:
- 1-on-1 tutoring focused on HLs and exam technique
- IA and EE feedback that boosts internal scores
- Score recovery plans for students aiming to move from 24 to 32+, or 32 to 38+
We believe that your best score is still ahead of you.
Call to Action: Unlock Your Best IB Score with RevisionDojo
Whether you’re targeting a 30 or a 40, your IB score is something you can improve with strategy, support, and smart planning.
Join RevisionDojo at www.revisiondojo.com and let us help you hit—and exceed—your target score.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is 32 a good IB score?
Yes—it’s well above the global average and competitive for many university programs.
2. What’s the minimum passing score for the IB diploma?
24 points, with some conditions (no subject below 3, passing core components).
3. Can I still get into university with a 28?
Absolutely. Many programs accept 28+, especially with strong HLs or a good personal statement.
4. What’s the average IB score for Ivy League applicants?
Typically 38–42+, but U.S. schools evaluate holistically.
5. How can I improve my IB score fast?
Focus on HL subjects, exam skills, IA feedback, and time management—RevisionDojo can help.
6. Do universities care more about the total or specific subjects?
Both—but HL subject scores often carry more weight.
Conclusion
A “good” IB score isn’t just about numbers—it’s about direction. Whether your goal is to pass, stand out, or aim for elite universities, the key is knowing your benchmark and working smart.
With the right guidance, tools, and mindset, you can achieve your best IB score—and open doors to your future.
