IB Grading System Explained Simply for Undergraduate Admission (2026 Guide).

IB Grading System Explained.

The IB grading system often feels confusing for students and parents who are new to the International Baccalaureate.

Unlike percentage-based systems, IB uses a point-based grading structure that focuses on both knowledge and skills.

Universities across the world clearly understand this system and use it during undergraduate admission evaluation.

Knowing how IB grades work helps students set realistic targets and plan their applications better.

This blog explains the IB grading system in a simple and easy way, with relevance for undergraduate admission in 2026.

Point	Details
Curriculum	IB Diploma Programme (IBDP)
Grading Scale	1–7 per subject
Core Components	TOK, EE, CAS
Maximum Score	45 points
Used For	Undergraduate Admission
Accepted In	100+ countries
Evaluation Style	Holistic + academic
Admission Cycle	2026

IB Grading System Explained Simply: Overall Structure

The IB grading system is based on points, not percentages.

Each IB student studies:

• Six subjects chosen from different academic groups

• Three subjects at Higher Level (HL) and three at Standard Level (SL)

• Core components that add bonus points

Each subject is graded on a scale from 1 to 7.

IB Grading Scale Explained Simply

The 1–7 scale reflects performance levels.

Grade meaning:

• 7 – Excellent understanding and performance

• 6 – Very good conceptual clarity

• 5 – Good understanding with minor gaps

• 4 – Satisfactory performance

• 3 – Limited understanding

• 2 – Very limited performance

• 1 – Poor performance

Most universities expect students to score 4 or above in all subjects.

How IB Subject Scores Are Calculated

IB subject scores come from two main components.

Teachers and examiners evaluate:

• Internal Assessments (IAs), such as projects and coursework

• Final examinations conducted by IB

Each component has a fixed weight, depending on the subject.

Example:

In many subjects, internal assessments contribute around 20–30%, while final exams contribute 70–80%.

IB Grading System Explained Simply for Internal Assessments

Internal Assessments test applied learning.

They usually include:

• Research projects

• Oral presentations

• Practical experiments

• Written assignments

Teachers assess IAs, and IB moderators review samples to ensure fairness.

IB Final Exams and External Assessment

Final exams are externally assessed by IB examiners.

These exams:

• Test conceptual understanding

• Focus on analysis and application

• Are standardized globally

External marking ensures consistency across countries and schools.

Higher Level vs Standard Level Grading

HL and SL subjects are graded on the same 1–7 scale.

However:

• HL subjects have more content depth

• HL exams are longer and more complex

• Universities focus more on HL grades related to the chosen major

Strong HL grades are important for undergraduate admission.

Core Components in the IB Grading System

The IB core includes:

• Theory of Knowledge (TOK)

• Extended Essay (EE)

• Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS)

TOK and EE together contribute up to 3 bonus points.

IB Grading System Explained Simply: TOK and EE Points

TOK and EE are graded separately.

Their combined grading:

• Adds 0 to 3 bonus points

• Depends on performance in both components

• Rewards critical thinking and research

CAS is compulsory but does not add points.

Maximum IB Score Explained

The highest possible IB score is 45.

This includes:

• Up to 42 points from six subjects

• Up to 3 bonus points from TOK and EE

A score above 38 is considered competitive for top universities.

What Is a Good IB Score for University Admission?

IB score expectations vary by university.

General guidelines:

• 28–32 points – Entry-level universities

• 33–36 points – Good global universities

• 37–40 points – Competitive universities

• 41–45 points – Top-tier institutions

Universities also check subject-specific requirements.

IB Grading System Explained Simply for Study Abroad

IB grading is globally standardized.

This helps universities:

• Compare students across countries

• Trust the grading process

• Convert IB scores into local equivalents

This makes IB ideal for study abroad applications.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the IB grading system?

The IB grading system uses a 1–7 scale for each subject, with a maximum total score of 45.

2. Is the IB grading system difficult?

It is challenging but fair, focusing on understanding and application.

3. What is a good IB score for undergraduate admission?

A score of 36+ is competitive, while 40+ is strong for top universities.

4. Do HL and SL subjects have the same grading?

Yes, but HL subjects are more rigorous.

5. How many bonus points can students get?

Up to 3 bonus points from TOK and EE.

6. Does CAS affect IB grades?

CAS is compulsory but does not add points.

7. Are IB grades accepted worldwide?

Yes, IB grades are accepted in over 100 countries.

8. Do predicted grades follow the same system?

Yes, predicted grades use the same 1–7 scale.

The IB grading system may seem complex at first, but it is structured and transparent.Understanding how grades are calculated helps students set realistic targets and plan better.Universities value IB grades for their global consistency and academic rigor.With the right approach, students can use the IB grading system to succeed in undergraduate admission.

What Should IB Students Do Next?

• Understand grading criteria early

• Take internal assessments seriously

• Focus on strong HL performance

• Plan undergraduate admission requirements in advance

🔗 IB Diploma Programme Overview:https://www.ibo.org/programmes/diploma-programme/

🔗 IB University Recognition:https://www.ibo.org/university-admission/find-countries-and-universities-that-recognize-the-ib/