Where IB 32–35 Still Gets Scholarships.
- Feb 6
- 2 min read
An IB score between 32 and 35 is often misunderstood. Many students assume it’s “not high enough” for scholarships and stop exploring funding options entirely. In reality, this score range unlocks meaningful scholarships in several countries — especially in structured, grade-driven systems.
The key is knowing where to apply.
This blog explains which countries still offer scholarships at IB 32–35, how these awards work, and what students in this range should realistically expect.
What IB 32–35 Represents to Universities
This score range signals:
Strong academic ability
Readiness for undergraduate study
Reliability and consistency
It may not be top-tier everywhere, but it is solid and fundable.
Where IB 32–35 Unlocks Aid
Country | Scholarship Potential |
Canada | High |
Australia | High |
Netherlands | Moderate–High |
Italy (Private) | Moderate |
Hong Kong | Limited |
Singapore | Limited |
US | Low (merit-based) |
Partial scholarships are common — full rides are not.
Canada: Entrance Scholarships at Mid-30s
Why Canada works:
Clear grade-linked entrance awards
Many universities start merit aid at IB 32–33
What students get:
Tuition reductions
Renewable awards at some universities
No essays required for many.
Australia: Automatic Merit Tiers
Australian universities offer:
Score-tiered scholarships
Automatic consideration during admission
Typical range:
IB 32–34 → entry-level merit awards
IB 35 → higher tier at some universities
Timing matters — early applications help.
Netherlands: Threshold-Based Merit Aid
In the Netherlands:
Scholarships are linked to IB score bands
Often automatic once conditions are met
IB 32–35 can qualify for:
Partial tuition waivers
First-year merit awards
Especially in non–highly selective programs.
Italy (Private Universities)
Private institutions in Italy:
Use IB scores for merit aid
Often start scholarships around IB 32
Awards may include:
Tuition discounts
Fee reductions
Public universities are more limited.
Countries Where IB 32–35 Is Less Competitive for Aid
United States
Scholarships are holistic
This score range rarely unlocks merit aid alone
United Kingdom
Very limited UG merit scholarships
Mostly need-based or competitive
Singapore
Scholarships usually start higher
Interviews + academic excellence required
Common Mistakes Students Make
Assuming no scholarships exist
Applying too late
Ignoring automatic awards
Overestimating EC impact in grade-driven systems
Most missed aid is due to lack of awareness.
How to Maximise Aid With IB 32–35
Apply early
Target score-driven countries
Maintain predicted grades
Choose programs with structured merit aid
Avoid unnecessary retakes
Strategy beats stress.
Frequently Asked Questions ( FAQs )
1. Can predicted grades unlock scholarships?
Yes, in many systems.
2. Are these scholarships renewable?
Often yes, if GPA is maintained.
3. Should I retake exams?
Only if crossing a clear threshold.
4. Can ECs compensate for mid-range scores?
Rarely outside the US.
Final Takeaway
IB 32–35 is not a dead zone — it’s a strategic range.
In the right countries, these scores unlock real financial support without extra effort.
Choose destinations wisely and let your score work for you.
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