What Are IB Predicted Grades and Why They Matter
Predicted grades are forecasts of the scores students are expected to achieve in each IB subject. Teachers submit these to the IB and universities based on your academic performance, IAs, classwork, and mock exams.
These grades play a critical role in university admissions, especially for early decision applicants. Inaccurate predictions can impact offers from top universities—making the appeals process an important (but delicate) option for students who believe they’ve been misjudged.
Can You Appeal a Predicted Grade in IB?
Technically, students cannot appeal directly to the IB about predicted grades. However, there are several actions you can take through your school, which retains the authority to make adjustments before the IB submission deadline.
Predicted grade appeals must be handled internally—between the student and their IB coordinator, teacher, and possibly the head of department or school leadership.
Steps to Appeal a Predicted Grade in IB
1. Understand Your School’s Policy on Appeals
Every IB school has its own procedures. Before initiating an appeal:
- Review your school’s academic handbook or grading policy
- Note any deadlines for appeals (usually a few weeks before official submission)
- Ask your coordinator how appeals are handled
2. Gather Supporting Evidence
To make a convincing case, prepare:
- Your recent assessment results (tests, essays, IAs, etc.)
- Mock exam grades
- Past report cards or progress reports
- Feedback from assignments showing consistent improvement
The more data you have showing you're capable of a higher grade, the stronger your appeal.
3. Speak with Your Subject Teacher First
Approach your teacher respectfully. Explain your concerns and present your evidence.
Questions to ask:
- “Could we review how my predicted grade was determined?”
- “Can I show you my recent improvement or IA progress?”
- “Is there an opportunity for reassessment or re-evaluation?”
Most teachers are open to discussion, especially if your appeal is thoughtful and backed by effort.
4. Escalate to the IB Coordinator (if needed)
If you and your teacher can’t agree, ask your IB Coordinator to mediate. The coordinator can:
- Review your appeal
- Compare your situation to school-wide standards
- Discuss with the teacher and department head
In some cases, coordinators may allow an internal review or override a grade with proper justification.
5. Final Review and Grade Submission
Once all appeals are resolved:
- The school will submit final predicted grades to the IB and universities
- Teachers must justify each prediction to the IB
- Grades can still be adjusted slightly by teachers before the deadline, based on student performance
After submission, changes are no longer allowed—so act early.
What If a Predicted Grade Is Still Too Low?
Even if your appeal isn’t successful, don’t panic.
You can:
- Strengthen your university application through your personal statement, reference letters, and extracurriculars
- Request a conditional offer based on final exam performance
- Apply later in the year with your final IB results (post-results application)
Remember: predicted grades aren’t always destiny. Many students outperform their predictions.
FAQs on Predicted Grade Appeals in IB
Q1: Can I appeal directly to the IB?
No. The IB does not accept predicted grade appeals from students. Appeals must go through your school.
Q2: Is my teacher allowed to change a predicted grade?
Yes, before the submission deadline and with proper justification, your teacher can revise your prediction.
Q3: What’s the deadline for predicted grade appeals?
Each school sets its own internal deadlines. It’s usually several weeks before the official IB submission window in March/April or November.
Q4: Can I use my IA to justify a higher predicted grade?
Yes. A strong IA can be a powerful piece of evidence—especially if it's complete and scored.
Q5: What if my predicted grades hurt my university chances?
You can still apply with final results later or appeal directly to the university for reconsideration.
Q6: Are appeals common?
Yes, especially when students feel their performance has recently improved or if mock exam results were unusually low.
