Introduction
If you’re an IB parent, chances are you’ve heard the phrase “predicted grades” more times than you can count. Teachers mention them, your child worries about them, and universities often ask for them. But what exactly are predicted grades? And how do they differ from the final IB results?
This is a question almost every IB parent asks at some point:
“Should I be worried about my child’s predicted grades? Do they matter more than the final results?”
The short answer: predicted grades are important, but they aren’t the end of the story. They play a big role in university applications, while the final results determine your child’s actual diploma and placements. Let’s break it down in clear parent-friendly terms.
What Are IB Predicted Grades?
Predicted grades are estimates given by teachers about how your child is expected to perform in their IB exams. These predictions are usually based on:
- Performance in class and school assessments.
- Quality of work in assignments and Internal Assessments.
- Effort, consistency, and progress across IB Year 1 and Year 2.
- Teacher judgment of potential.
These grades are submitted to universities as part of the application process. For many students, predicted grades can make or break their offers.
What Are Final Results?
Final results are the official grades awarded by the IB after your child completes all exams and assessments. These include:
- External exams in May or November (depending on your child’s session).
- Internal Assessments, which are moderated externally.
- The Extended Essay (EE) and Theory of Knowledge (TOK) combined grade.
- CAS (Creativity, Activity, Service), which is required to earn the diploma.
Final results are released in July (for May exams) or January (for November exams). They determine whether your child earns the full IB Diploma and whether they meet the exact requirements of their university offers.
