Introduction
The IB Middle Years Programme (MYP) uses a unique 1–7 grading scale that evaluates students on how well they meet subject-specific objectives, not how they perform compared to others. For new students and parents, this system can seem confusing — especially if they’re used to percentages or letter grades.
In this article, you’ll learn how MYP grade boundaries work, what each grade level represents, and how teachers determine final scores. Understanding this system helps students take ownership of their learning and focus on progress rather than perfection.
The Philosophy Behind the MYP 1–7 Scale
The IB’s approach to grading is rooted in its belief that learning is a process of growth. The MYP does not rank students or apply a curve. Instead, it evaluates how well a student meets defined criteria that measure understanding, skills, and reflection.
This ensures that:
- Every student is assessed against clear expectations, not against peers.
- Grades reflect individual progress and mastery.
- Feedback promotes learning and self-improvement.
It’s an approach designed to motivate inquiry, independence, and critical thinking — the core of IB learning.
How the 1–7 Scale Works
Each subject in the MYP is assessed using four equally weighted criteria, each graded from 0 to 8. The four criterion scores are added together to give a total out of 32.
Teachers then use official grade boundaries to convert that total into a final grade (1–7).
Here’s a general guideline for MYP grade boundaries (slight variations may exist across schools):
- Grade 1 (0–5 points): Very limited achievement; minimal understanding of concepts.
- Grade 2 (6–9 points): Basic awareness; understanding is incomplete or inconsistent.
- Grade 3 (10–14 points): Developing knowledge and skills with partial success.
- Grade 4 (15–18 points): Satisfactory achievement; meets most objectives effectively.
- Grade 5 (19–23 points): Strong, consistent understanding; good application of knowledge.
- Grade 6 (24–27 points): High-quality work with depth and clear analysis.
- Grade 7 (28–32 points): Excellent mastery; independent and insightful application of skills.
Each subject area — from Sciences to Arts — applies the same structure but evaluates different types of learning outcomes.
What Each Grade Level Means
Grade 1–2: Emerging Learner
Students show limited understanding or frequent need for guidance. They are beginning to grasp basic concepts but struggle to apply them.
Grade 3–4: Developing Learner
Students demonstrate growing comprehension and can apply concepts in familiar contexts. They meet most objectives but may lack depth or consistency.
Grade 5: Competent Learner
Students show solid understanding and apply skills effectively in a range of situations. They can analyze, reflect, and communicate ideas clearly.
Grade 6–7: Proficient to Excellent Learner
Students perform at a high level of independence and sophistication. Their work shows creativity, accuracy, and critical insight across contexts.
How Teachers Determine Final Grades
Teachers base final grades on accumulated evidence from a range of tasks — not a single test or exam. These tasks may include:
- Projects and written assignments
- Experiments and research reports
- Oral presentations
- Creative work or performances
- Reflections and portfolios
Each task aligns with specific MYP assessment criteria, ensuring consistency and transparency.
At the end of a grading period, teachers review all evidence, determine the best-fit level for each criterion (A–D), and add them to generate the total out of 32. That total is then converted into the final 1–7 grade using the IB boundary scale.
Differences Between Formative and Summative Assessment
The MYP uses two types of assessment to ensure holistic learning:
- Formative assessment: Ongoing class tasks designed to give feedback during learning (e.g., drafts, group discussions).
- Summative assessment: Final tasks that demonstrate mastery of skills and understanding at the end of a unit (e.g., essays, lab reports, projects).
Formative assessments guide improvement, while summative assessments provide the evidence for final grading.
The Role of Feedback
Feedback is central to the MYP grading process. Instead of simply receiving a number, students get descriptive feedback explaining:
- What they did well
- Where they can improve
- How they can move to the next achievement level
This continuous reflection helps students take responsibility for their progress — one of the hallmarks of IB education.
Common Myths About the 1–7 Scale
Myth 1: A “4” is a low grade.
In the MYP, a 4 is considered a solid achievement, showing satisfactory understanding and application.
Myth 2: Grades are based on class averages.
They’re not. Students are measured against objective criteria, not compared with peers.
Myth 3: The scale is equivalent to percentages.
A “7” does not equal 100%, nor does a “4” equal 50%. Each level reflects quality of learning, not numerical scores.
How Students Can Improve Their Grades
- Understand the rubrics: Always review assessment criteria before starting a task.
- Seek regular feedback: Ask teachers what “next level” performance looks like.
- Reflect after each task: Identify strengths and set improvement goals.
- Manage time effectively: Balancing subjects prevents rushed work.
- Embrace inquiry: Approach tasks as opportunities to explore and learn deeply.
Conclusion
The 1–7 grading scale in the IB MYP is designed to celebrate growth, effort, and understanding — not competition. By focusing on criteria-based assessment, students learn to value feedback, reflection, and continuous improvement.
Whether a student earns a 4 or a 7, the true goal of the MYP grading system is to encourage curiosity, resilience, and a lifelong love of learning — the qualities that define success beyond the classroom.
