IB Exams Passing Requirements: A Comprehensive Guide
The IB Exams Passing Requirements can seem complex, we break them down in this guide.
The International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme is known for its rigorous academic standards and comprehensive curriculum. Successfully passing the IB exams requires meeting specific criteria related to subject grades, core components, and overall points. This guide provides a detailed explanation of the requirements to pass the IB exams, ensuring that students have a clear understanding of what it takes to achieve the IB Diploma.
Understanding the IB Diploma Programme
The IB Diploma Programme consists of six subject groups and three core components. Students must take one subject from each of the first five groups, with the sixth subject being an arts subject or another subject from groups 1-5. The three core components are:
- Theory of Knowledge (TOK)
- Extended Essay (EE)
- Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS)
You can read our guide on how the IB is structured for parents here.
IB Exams Passing Requirements: Grading System and Scores
Each IB subject is graded on a scale from 1 to 7, with 7 being the highest possible score. The core components, TOK and the EE, are graded from A to E. To earn the IB Diploma, students must meet the following IB Exams Passing Requirements:
- Total Points: Achieve at least 24 points out of a possible 45 points.
- Grades in All Subjects: A grade must be awarded in all subjects, TOK, and the EE.
- Minimum Subject Grades: A grade of at least 2 must be awarded in all subjects.
- Limited Low Grades:
- No more than two grades of 2 (whether at SL or HL).
- No more than three grades of 3 or below (whether at SL or HL).
- Higher Level (HL) Points: Obtain at least 12 points in HL subjects. If registered for four HL subjects, the three highest grades count.
- Standard Level (SL) Points: Obtain at least 9 points in SL subjects. If registered for only two SL subjects, at least 5 points must be awarded at SL.
- CAS Requirements: Complete all CAS requirements satisfactorily.
IB Exams Passing Requirements: Core Components
Theory of Knowledge (TOK) and Extended Essay (EE)
TOK and the EE are graded from A (highest) to E (lowest). The combination of these grades can contribute up to 3 additional points to the total score, based on the following matrix:
- A/A: 3 points
- A/B or B/A: 3 points
- A/C or C/A: 2 points
- B/B: 2 points
- B/C or C/B: 1 point
- C/C: 1 point
A grade of D in either TOK or the EE can still contribute points if the other grade is higher, but a grade of E in either component results in failing the diploma.
Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS)
CAS requires students to engage in various activities that involve creativity, physical activity, and community service. While CAS does not contribute to the total points, failing to complete CAS requirements results in not being awarded the diploma.
Failing Conditions
Even if a student achieves 24 points, the diploma will not be awarded if they:
- Earn a grade of E in either TOK or the EE.
- Do not complete the CAS requirements.
- Score less than 12 points in HL subjects.
- Score less than 9 points in SL subjects.
- Accumulate more than two grades of 2.
- Accumulate more than three grades of 3 or below.
Strategies for Success
To maximize your chances of passing the IB exams, consider the following strategies:
- Time Management: Create a study schedule that allocates sufficient time for each subject and includes regular breaks.
- Understand the Criteria: Familiarize yourself with the assessment criteria for each subject and the core components.
- Seek Feedback: Regularly consult with your teachers to get feedback on your progress and areas needing improvement.
- Practice Past Papers: Use past exam papers to practice and understand the format and types of questions that may appear.
- Balance Work and Rest: Maintain a healthy balance between study and rest to avoid burnout.
