What Is the IB Diploma Programme and How Is It Scored?
The International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme (DP) is a rigorous two-year pre-university course taken by students aged 16–19. It’s globally recognized and prepares students for higher education with an emphasis on academic breadth, critical thinking, and international-mindedness.
🧾 IB Scoring Basics:
- Students take 6 subjects, each graded on a scale of 1 to 7
- 3 subjects at Higher Level (HL) and 3 at Standard Level (SL)
- 3 additional points are available from Theory of Knowledge (TOK) and the Extended Essay (EE)
- Total maximum score: 45 points
Understanding the 24-Point Rule
The 24-point rule is the minimum score requirement to be awarded the full IB Diploma. This rule ensures that students demonstrate consistent performance across subjects and core components.
To pass the IB Diploma, a student must achieve:
- At least 24 points out of 45 total
- Completion of all core components: Extended Essay (EE), Theory of Knowledge (TOK), and Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS)
- No failing conditions as defined by the IB Organization
Introduced as a standard benchmark, the 24-point rule is widely recognized by universities and IB coordinators as the basic threshold for diploma eligibility.
How the 24 Points Are Calculated
📘 Subject Grades:
- Each of the 6 subjects is worth up to 7 points (6 x 7 = 42 total possible)
- Scores are based on final exams, internal assessments (IAs), and coursework
🧠 Core Components:
- EE and TOK combined can yield up to 3 bonus points
- CAS must be completed satisfactorily, but it does not carry point value
Component Score
English HL 5
Biology HL 4
History HL 4
Math SL 4
Spanish SL 3
Visual Arts SL 3
EE/TOK Bonus 1
Total 24 ✅
What Happens If You Score Below 24?
If you earn fewer than 24 points:
- You do not receive the IB Diploma, even if you passed individual subjects
- You will still get course certificates for subjects where you earned a 3 or higher
- Many students choose to resit exams in a future session (e.g., November or May)
- University admissions may be affected if your offer was conditional on passing the diploma
Additional Conditions Beyond the 24 Points
Scoring 24 points alone does not guarantee a pass—other criteria must also be met, including:
❗ Additional Pass Requirements:
- At least 12 points across HL subjects
- At least 9 points across SL subjects
- No grade 1 in any subject
- No more than two grade 2s overall
- Completion of EE, TOK, and CAS
Example of a Failing Case:
- You score 25 points total
- But two of your HLs are grade 2
- ➡️ Diploma not awarded, despite 24+ points
How to Make Sure You Meet the 24-Point Rule
🎯 Smart Study Strategies:
- Focus on internal assessments—they make up 20–30% of most subjects
- Prioritize consistency over cramming
- Balance your subject choices: Combine stronger subjects with more challenging ones
- Use tools like RevisionDojo for strategic, ethical IB revision
- Don’t neglect the core components—they can save your diploma with bonus points
Tips from IB Graduates Who Passed with 24–28 Points
✅ Student Story: Sofia, Class of 2022
“I averaged 4s and was so stressed, but my TOK and EE gave me 2 bonus points. That got me to 25, and I passed. I focused on my IA drafts and practiced with mock exams every week.”
✅ Student Story: Daniel, Class of 2023
“I barely passed one SL subject but made sure to finish CAS and polish my EE early. I didn’t aim for a 45—I aimed for consistency.”
Takeaway? You can pass without being perfect, as long as you manage time, complete the core, and push for bonus points.
Can Bonus Points Help You Reach 24?
Yes—bonus points from the EE and TOK can be decisive.
EE/TOK GradesBonus Points
A + A = 3
A + B or B + A = 2
A + C or B + B = 1
Others0
So, if your subject total is 22, a strong EE and TOK combo can bring you up to 24 and save your diploma.
FAQs About the 24-Point Rule in the IB Diploma
Q1: Is 24 a good IB score?
A: It’s the minimum passing score. While not competitive for top-tier universities, many institutions accept it, especially with strong IAs or essays.
Q2: Can I still get into university with 24 points?
A: Yes. Many universities, especially outside the UK, accept students with 24–28 points, often through foundation or conditional programs.
Q3: What if I score 24 but fail TOK or EE?
A: You must pass both core components. A failing grade in either EE or TOK means no diploma, regardless of your total points.
Q4: Can bonus points make up for a failed subject?
A: No. Bonus points help only if you meet the minimum passing requirements for subjects.
Q5: Can I retake exams if I score below 24?
A: Yes. You can resit exams in the next session within two years and potentially earn the diploma.
Q6: Is CAS part of the 24 points?
A: No. CAS does not add points, but failure to complete CAS results in automatic diploma disqualification.
