Introduction: Understanding IB Exam Scoring
The International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme uses a unique grading system that often confuses students and parents unfamiliar with its 1–7 scale. Unlike traditional percentage-based systems, the IB evaluates students using specific criteria across multiple components.
In this guide, you’ll learn how IB exams are graded, what each number means, how bonus points are awarded, and how your final IB score is calculated.
How IB Exams Are Graded
- Each subject in the IB is graded on a scale from 1 (lowest) to 7 (highest)
- Students take six subjects, meaning the maximum subject score total is 42
- Up to 3 additional points are awarded from Theory of Knowledge (TOK) and the Extended Essay (EE)
- The highest possible IB Diploma score is 45 points
IB Grading Scale Explained (1–7)
- 7 – Excellent performance
- 6 – Very good performance
- 5 – Good performance
- 4 – Satisfactory performance
- 3 – Mediocre performance
- 2 – Poor performance
- 1 – Very poor performance
A score of 4 or above is generally considered a passing grade in most subjects.
Grade Distribution per Component
IB subjects typically include:
