What Is the IB Diploma and How Is It Scored?
The International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme is a two-year academic curriculum for students aged 16–19. It consists of six subjects plus three core components.
Scoring Breakdown
- Each subject is graded on a scale from 1 to 7.
- Theory of Knowledge (TOK) and the Extended Essay (EE) contribute up to 3 bonus points.
- Total maximum score: 45 points
Core Requirements
- CAS (Creativity, Activity, Service) is mandatory but not graded.
- Students must complete internal assessments, final exams, and core projects to receive the diploma.
IB Score Requirements by Region
United States
- Elite Universities (Harvard, Stanford, MIT): 40–45 points
- Competitive Schools (UC Berkeley, NYU, Michigan): 36–40
- Average Selective Colleges: 30–35
- Most schools evaluate subject rigor and HL choices alongside total score.
United Kingdom
- Oxford & Cambridge: 38–42, with 7-7-6 in HL subjects
- Russell Group Universities: 34–38
- All offers typically specify both total points and minimum HL scores
Canada
- Top universities (Toronto, UBC, McGill): 33–36
- Less competitive programs may accept scores as low as 28–32
Europe and Australia
- IB accepted across all major universities
- Typical entry scores range from 30 to 36, depending on country and course
- Medicine, Law, and Engineering require 37–42+
What Is the Passing Score for the IB Diploma?
To receive the IB diploma, you must:
- Score at least 24 points overall
- Earn at least 12 points across HL subjects
- Earn at least 9 points across SL subjects
- Complete EE, TOK, and CAS requirements
Failing Conditions
- A score of 1 in any subject
- Less than 3 points from TOK and EE
- Not completing CAS
- Failing HL or SL minimum thresholds
Minimum IB Scores for Top Universities
- Harvard, Princeton, Yale
- Minimum IB Score: 42–45
- Stanford, MIT, Columbia
- Minimum IB Score: 40–44
- Oxford, Cambridge (UK)
- Minimum IB Score: 38–42
- UCL, LSE, Imperial College
- Minimum IB Score: 36–40
- University of Toronto
- Minimum IB Score: 34–38
- University of Melbourne
- Minimum IB Score: 32–36
Each university sets its own IB requirement based on course competitiveness, and some require specific HL grades.
How IB Scores Are Converted for Admissions
GPA Conversion
Some schools may convert IB scores into GPA equivalents:
- IB 7 ≈ A+ (4.0)
- IB 6 ≈ A (3.7)
- IB 5 ≈ B+ (3.3)
UCAS Points (UK)
UCAS tariff points:
- 45 = 720 points
- 40 = 611 points
- 35 = 501 points
These help compare IB applicants with A-Level or other qualification holders.
Predicted Scores Matter
Many universities issue conditional offers based on predicted IB grades submitted by your school.
Factors That Influence Score Requirements
- Course difficulty (STEM vs. Humanities)
- Applicant pool competitiveness
- HL subjects required (e.g., HL Math for Engineering)
- University location and global reputation
FAQs – Minimum IB Scores and Admissions
Can I get into university with 24 points?
Yes, but mostly for non-selective or foundation programs. Competitive universities expect 30+.
What IB score do I need for medicine?
Often 38–42, with HL Biology and Chemistry at level 6 or 7.
Do HL grades matter more than total score?
Yes. Many offers require specific HL performance, not just total points.
Can I still apply with a failed IB diploma?
You can apply with individual subject certificates, but some universities may not accept them without the full diploma.
How important is the EE or TOK in admissions?
While not always a standalone factor, strong EE/TOK performance contributes to bonus points and showcases critical thinking and research skills.
Are IB students more competitive than AP?
In many global contexts, yes. IB is often seen as more holistic and globally standardized.
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