Where does your IB diploma score rank globally?

The global mean is 30.32 out of 45. A score of 35 or above places you in approximately the top 20% of diploma candidates, competitive for most Russell Group universities and many selective US schools. A score of 40 or above (top ~9.3%) is considered excellent and is competitive for Oxbridge and Ivy League admissions.

Approximately 9.3% of IB diploma candidates score 40 or above (May 2024 session). This means roughly 1 in 11 diploma candidates reaches this threshold. A score of 40 or above is widely considered a strong result and meets or exceeds typical offers at the most competitive universities worldwide.

A perfect score of 45 is achieved by approximately 0.3% of IB diploma candidates, roughly 250-270 students out of approximately 85,000-90,000 who sit the May session each year. To achieve a 45, a student must earn 7s in all six subjects (42 points) plus 3 bonus points from the Extended Essay and Theory of Knowledge.

Oxford and Cambridge typically make offers in the range of 38-40 for most courses, with some courses requiring 40-42. Medicine at both universities tends to require 39-40. Most successful Oxbridge applicants score 40 or above. The IB score is one component alongside personal statements, interviews, and any admissions tests required for the course.

The IB Diploma total score is out of 45. Students take six subjects (each scored 1-7, for a maximum of 42 points) plus up to 3 bonus points from their Theory of Knowledge essay and Extended Essay. To be awarded the diploma, students must achieve a minimum of 24 points, with no more than one failing grade in any subject. All six subjects, the Extended Essay, Theory of Knowledge, and CAS (Creativity, Activity, Service) must be completed.

The global IB Diploma pass rate is typically around 78-82%. Failure to achieve the diploma can result from scoring below 24 overall, failing conditions (too many grade 1s or 2s), or not meeting requirements in the core components (Extended Essay, Theory of Knowledge, or CAS). Schools with strong IB programmes often have pass rates above 90%, while the global average reflects a broader and more variable cohort.

Both qualifications are widely accepted by universities globally. The IB is considered broadly equivalent to A-levels for UK university entry, with a typical conversion of IB 38-40 corresponding roughly to A*AA at A-level. The IB requires six subjects and core components, providing broader preparation. A-levels allow deeper specialisation in three subjects. Most UK universities publish both A-level and IB requirements for each course.

US universities use IB scores as one component of a holistic application. Selective US universities typically look for IB scores of 36-40 from competitive applicants. Ivy League schools and top liberal arts colleges typically see applicants with 38-42. IB Higher Level grades of 6 or 7 may also earn college credit or advanced standing at many US universities, with specific policies varying by institution.