Understanding the IB Scoring System
The International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme is scored out of a maximum of 45 points, made up of:
- 6 subjects × 7 points = 42 points
- 3 bonus points from:
- Extended Essay (EE)
- Theory of Knowledge (TOK)
To earn 45, a student must:
- Score a 7 in all six subjects
- Earn the full 3 bonus points from EE and TOK
- Meet CAS requirements
How Rare Is a 45 in IB?
📊 Global Statistics
According to IB Organization data:
- In most years, less than 1% of students score 45
- In 2023, just over 1,100 students out of 180,000 achieved a 45
- That’s roughly 0.6% of the total cohort
🎓 University Perspective
- A 45 is extremely impressive but not required for elite university admission
- Top colleges (like Oxford, Stanford, or Harvard) usually accept scores in the 40–44 range
- A 45 may help with merit-based scholarships, but holistic applications matter more
Profiles of Students Who Score 45
Students who achieve perfect scores often:
- Choose well-balanced subjects (e.g., not all high-intensity HLs)
- Start IA, EE, and TOK work months in advance
- Use spaced repetition and markscheme reviews
- Build mental stamina through mock exams and performance reflection
💼 Sample Subject Combo:
- HL: English, Economics, Biology
- SL: Math AI, Spanish B, ESS
These combinations offer depth but avoid overloading with heavy math or physics unless it aligns with strengths.
Key Challenges in Reaching a 45
🔬 HL Difficulty
- HLs like Math AA, Physics, and Chemistry are known for low 7-rates
- Balancing three HLs with high performance in all is tough
📝 Tight Deadlines
- Students juggle:
- EE (4,000 words)
- 6 IAs
- TOK Essay
- CAS projects
🤯 Mental Pressure
- Burnout risk is real
- Consistency > overworking in panic mode
How to Strategically Aim for a 45 in 2026
📘 Subject Selection
- Choose subjects aligned with strengths
- Avoid "status HLs" unless you're confident and passionate
📅 Timeline Planning
- Start EE and TOK in Year 1
- Finish IAs early and seek teacher feedback
- Plan mock exam revisions months in advance
💬 Feedback Loop
- Use teacher and peer review constantly
- Adjust study based on examiners’ reports
Can the 2026 IB Cohort Beat Previous Records?
💻 Post-Pandemic Adjustments
- Hybrid/digital learning continues to support high achievers
- Students are now more resource-savvy, using platforms like RevisionDojo
📈 Trend Outlook
- IB has returned to normal grading standards
- This means a 45 is still rare, but with strong planning, more realistic than ever
FAQs – IB Score of 45
Is a 45 needed for top colleges?
No. Most elite schools accept 39–44. A 45 is impressive, but not essential.
What if I miss by 1–2 points?
Many students with 42–44 receive scholarships, research placements, and top-tier acceptances.
Does a 45 guarantee scholarships?
Not always, but many schools offer awards to 43+ scorers, especially in the UK, Canada, and Australia.
Are 45 scorers always academic overachievers?
Not necessarily. Most are strategic, disciplined, and well-supported—not perfect.
Should I aim for 45 or focus on a 40+?
Aim for your best. 40+ is already elite—but if you're consistently scoring 7s, a 45 is realistic.
Train for a 45 With RevisionDojo
🎯 Want the best chance at a perfect score?
RevisionDojo helps IB students:
- Plan strategic revision paths to aim for 6s → 7s
- Master IAs, EE, and TOK with personalized feedback
- Access banks with live expert sessions
👉 Get started today at RevisionDojo and level up your IB strategy.
