How is the IB graded?
The International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma can feel mysterious because it doesn't use letter grades. Here's how it actually works — the 1–7 subject scale, the Extended Essay and Theory of Knowledge, the famous /45 total, and what you need to pass.
The 1–7 subject scale
Each of your six IB subjects is graded from 1 to 7, where 7 is the highest. As a rough guide:
| Grade | Meaning |
|---|---|
| 7 | Excellent |
| 6 | Very good |
| 5 | Good |
| 4 | Satisfactory (a typical pass) |
| 3 | Mediocre |
| 2 | Poor |
| 1 | Very poor |
Six subjects at 7 each gives 42 points.
The core: Extended Essay & Theory of Knowledge
Beyond your subjects, the IB core includes the Extended Essay (EE) and Theory of Knowledge (TOK), each graded on a band from A (highest) to E. Your EE and TOK grades are combined in a points matrix that awards up to 3 bonus points toward your total.
How the 45 points add up
That's where the maximum of 45 comes from: 42 points from six subjects, plus up to 3 from the core. A score in the high 30s or 40s is very strong.
What you need to pass
To be awarded the diploma you generally need at least 24 points, plus conditions — completing the core, not failing the EE or TOK in certain combinations, and not collecting too many low subject grades. Always check the current official requirements for your session.
Check your IB essay's grade — instantly
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Grade my work freeFrequently asked questions
- What is the maximum IB score?
- 45 — 42 from six subjects plus up to 3 from the Extended Essay and TOK.
- What score do you need to pass?
- At least 24 points, plus core completion and grade conditions.
- How is the Extended Essay graded?
- On a band from A (highest) to E; combined with TOK it adds up to 3 bonus points.
Related guides: The Danish 7-point scale · German grades to GPA