Understanding What IB Results Day Is
IB Results Day marks the release of official scores for students who completed the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme. It usually falls on July 5th (May session) and January 2nd (November session).
Here’s what’s included in your results:
- Scores for each of the six subjects (graded 1–7)
- Extended Essay (EE) and Theory of Knowledge (TOK) grades
- Core points (0–3) combining EE and TOK
- Total score out of 45
- CAS (Creativity, Activity, Service) completion status
You’ll access results through the IBIS portal using your personal login details.
How to Prepare Before IB Results Day
📌 1. Log In Details
- Ensure you have your IBIS username and password ready
- If not, contact your school IB coordinator in advance
🧘 2. Manage Expectations
- Set realistic expectations
- Avoid comparing yourself to peers—this is your journey
👥 3. Choose Who to Be With
- Some prefer to open results alone, others with family or friends
- Choose a space where you’ll feel safe, calm, and supported
Step-by-Step: What to Do Once You Receive Your IB Results
- Log in to IBIS at the scheduled release time
- Open your result summary and review:
- Individual subject scores
- EE and TOK results
- Core points
- Total score out of 45
- Compare scores with predicted grades and university requirements
- Take a moment—reflect, react, and breathe
Celebrating Your Success (Even If It’s Not Perfect)
You’ve completed one of the toughest high school programs in the world. That alone is worth celebrating.
Ways to Celebrate:
- Share your success with family and friends
- Treat yourself—meal, outing, rest day
- Express gratitude to your teachers and mentors
- Reflect on your academic growth
If You’re Happy With Your Results
🎓 Confirm University Plans:
- If your offer is conditional, verify if you met all terms
- Check your UCAS, Common App, or regional application portal
- Send official scores (your school might do this automatically)
✈️ Plan the Next Step:
- Prepare for visa applications, course registration, or gap year
- Sort out accommodation, finances, and travel plans
If You’re Disappointed or Missed Your Target
🛠️ Options to Consider:
1. Enquiry Upon Results (EUR)
- You can request a remark (Category 1) if scores seem unfair
- Consult your IB coordinator; there is a fee per subject
2. Retaking IB Exams
- You can retake exams in the next session (November or May)
- Useful if you narrowly missed a university offer
3. University Alternatives
- Consider clearing, deferral, or applying to alternate programs
- Explore community college pathways, foundation years, or gap years
What Should Parents Do on IB Results Day?
Parents play a vital emotional and logistical support role.
Best Practices for Parents:
- Be calm and non-judgmental
- Celebrate effort, not just results
- Help explore options without pushing
- Stay informed about appeals and resits
Tips for Staying Calm and Focused on Results Day
- Breathe deeply and take things one step at a time
- Avoid social media comparison
- Prepare a plan A and plan B in advance
- Keep snacks, water, and your favorite playlist handy
Common Mistakes to Avoid on IB Results Day
❌ Panicking if a score is lower than expected
❌ Immediately emailing universities without guidance
❌ Misreading subject codes or bonus point breakdowns
❌ Assuming one result defines your academic future
❌ Neglecting to consider re-mark or resit options
Conclusion: Own Your Journey, Whatever the Outcome
IB Results Day can be emotional—but it’s not the end. Whether you’re celebrating or regrouping, remember: your IB journey is just the beginning of a bigger story.
Be proud of your resilience. Reflect. Reconnect. And step forward.
FAQs
What time are IB results released?
Typically at 12:00 GMT on July 5 (May session) and January 2 (November session). Your school may have specific access times.
Can I view results on my phone?
Yes, but use a stable Wi-Fi connection and prepare your login details in advance.
What if I forget my IBIS password?
Contact your school’s IB coordinator—they can reset it for you.
Can I appeal a subject grade?
Yes, through an Enquiry Upon Results (EUR) process. This may include a re-mark or a review of internal assessments.
Will universities still accept me if I missed my offer?
Some may accept you based on holistic review, or offer alternate courses. Others may require resits or a new application.
How soon can I retake IB exams?
You can retake subjects in the next exam session (May or November), depending on your current session.
