What to Do If Your IB Predicted Grades Are Too Low for University: 7 Smart Strategies

IB students often feel intense pressure when predicted grades don’t match their aspirations—especially when applying to competitive universities. If your predicted grades are too low, don’t panic. You still have multiple options to improve your outcomes and strengthen your application.

This guide walks you through practical, ethical steps to respond strategically, protect your mental health, and plan your next move.

1. Speak to Your Teacher Respectfully (and Early)

• If you believe your predicted grades don’t reflect your true ability, request a private meeting with your teacher.
• Come prepared with evidence—mock results, IA progress, recent improvements.
• Avoid demanding a change. Instead, ask:
  “What can I do in the next few weeks to show that I can achieve a higher score?”
• Some teachers may revise predictions if they see consistent growth.

Need help? Read this article:
👉 How to Ask Your Teacher for Better Predicted Grades

2. Talk to Your University Counselor or Coordinator

• Inform your school’s IB coordinator or university counselor as soon as possible.
• They may offer support, communicate with universities, or suggest alternate pathways.
• In some cases, they can include contextual notes about your potential in reference letters.

3. Review Your University Choices

• Research entry requirements and flexibility of each university.
• Some schools (especially outside the UK) consider final scores more heavily than predicted ones.
• Look for institutions with contextual offers, foundation programs, or holistic admissions.
• Consider applying to less competitive programs and transferring later.

4. Strengthen the Rest of Your Application

Even with lower predicted grades, you can stand out with:

• A powerful personal statement or motivation letter
• Strong letters of recommendation from teachers
• Meaningful extracurriculars, CAS experiences, or leadership roles
• High predicted scores in relevant subjects for your major (e.g., 6 in Biology for a life sciences degree)

5. Consider Retaking IB Exams After Graduation

If your final scores are stronger than your predictions, you can:

• Reapply during a gap year with improved final IB scores
• Retake 1–2 subjects in the next exam session to meet minimum university requirements
• Many universities allow deferred entry or later application based on real results

More here:
👉 Can You Retake an IB Exam? Here’s What You Need to Know

6. Use UCAS Clearing or Waitlist Systems

• In the UK, UCAS Clearing helps students find university spots after final results.
• In the US and other regions, waitlists and second rounds give you another shot at entry.
• Keep your options open and stay proactive—many students receive offers in the weeks after results day.

7. Stay Focused on Final IB Exams

Your final score still matters. Predicted grades aren’t the end of your story.

• Use platforms like RevisionDojo to close the gap and revise with purpose.
• Focus on subjects where you can still gain points quickly.
• Practice timed past papers, fix gaps in understanding, and avoid distractions.

Try it here:
👉 RevisionDojo IB Exam Practice Tools

FAQs About Low Predicted Grades and University Applications

Q1: Will universities reject me outright because of low predictions?
Some may, but others review your full application. Many consider final grades too.

Q2: Can I change my university choices after submitting my application?
Yes, through platforms like UCAS, Common App, or direct applications.

Q3: What if I do better than expected in the final exams?
Celebrate—and apply to other universities during Clearing or with a gap year plan.

Q4: Should I take a gap year if my predicted grades are low?
It’s a valid option if you're motivated to improve and reapply strategically.

Q5: Can I improve my IA or EE scores to boost predictions?
Yes—ask your teacher what areas you can still influence.

Q6: What’s the best way to stay motivated during this time?
Stick to a smart revision plan, use ethical support tools like RevisionDojo, and remember—you are not your predicted grade.

Final Thoughts: Your Future Isn’t Defined by a Prediction

Predicted grades are important—but they are just that: predictions. You still have time, tools, and talent to change your outcome.

With honest reflection, strategic planning, and the right resources (like RevisionDojo), you can overcome setbacks and reach your goals—on your terms.