When IB results are released, many students are surprised — or even disappointed — to see that most scores fall in the 24–34 point range. Online discussions often focus on extremes: failures at the bottom or 40+ scorers at the top. The middle is rarely talked about, even though it represents the majority of IB candidates worldwide.
This silence creates a distorted sense of what “normal” looks like.
In reality, scoring between 24 and 34 points is not a sign of underperformance. It reflects how the IB is designed, how students distribute across grades, and how demanding the programme truly is. This article explains why most IB students land in this range and why it should not be seen as a negative outcome.
Quick Start Checklist
- Why IB scores cluster in the middle
- What the 24–34 range actually represents
- Why students misunderstand score distributions
- How to interpret your result realistically
- What matters more than hitting extreme totals
How IB Scores Are Designed to Distribute
The IB is intentionally structured so that scores spread across a wide range rather than clustering at the top.
This happens because:
- Each subject is graded on a 1–7 scale
- Higher Level subjects are demanding
- Core points are limited to a maximum of 3
- Sustained performance is required across six subjects
When you combine these factors, the middle range naturally captures the largest proportion of students.
This is not a flaw — it is a feature of a rigorous system.
What the 24–34 Range Actually Means
Scoring between 24 and 34 points typically indicates that a student:
- Met the requirements of the Diploma
- Demonstrated consistent understanding across subjects
- Managed a demanding workload over two years
- Earned a legitimate, respected qualification
This range includes students with:
- Challenging Higher Level combinations
- Strong performance in some subjects and weaker performance in others
- Solid core engagement
It represents successful completion, not mediocrity.
Why Students Feel Disappointed by “Middle” Scores
Many students feel disappointed with scores in this range because of unrealistic expectations.
These expectations are often driven by:
- Social media highlighting only top scorers
- School marketing focused on elite outcomes
- Peer comparison within small cohorts
- Lack of exposure to global score distributions
Without context, students misjudge where their performance truly sits.
Why the Middle Is Where Most Learning Happens
The IB is not designed to produce only elite scorers. It is designed to develop:
- Academic writing skills
- Time management
- Critical thinking
- Independent learning
- Intellectual resilience
Students in the 24–34 range often show meaningful growth across these areas — growth that is not captured by a single number.
When a Middle Score Is Actually a Strong Outcome
A score in this range can be especially strong when:
- Subjects are demanding
- Higher Levels are rigorous
- The student improved significantly over time
- University offers are met or exceeded
Context matters far more than the number alone.
Why Chasing Extremes Is Often Counterproductive
Students who fixate on extreme outcomes often:
- Neglect weaker subjects
- Burn out under pressure
- Become overly risk-averse
- Lose motivation
Ironically, many students who end up with strong results focused on steady improvement rather than chasing a specific total.
A Better Way to Judge Your IB Performance
Instead of asking “Is my score impressive?”, better questions are:
- Did I meet my personal and academic goals?
- Did I improve consistently over two years?
- Do my results reflect my subject choices?
- Am I prepared for what comes next?
These questions lead to clarity and confidence — not anxiety.
How RevisionDojo Helps Students Improve Within the Middle Range
Many students in the 24–34 range are only a few adjustments away from significantly higher scores.
RevisionDojo helps students by:
- Identifying where easy marks are being lost
- Improving structure and clarity across subjects
- Teaching examiner-focused technique
- Supporting consistency rather than cramming
- Helping students raise multiple grades over time
Small improvements across subjects compound quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is scoring 24–34 points bad?
No. This range represents the majority of successful IB candidates. It reflects the reality of a demanding programme.
Do universities accept students in this range?
Yes. Many universities worldwide accept students with scores in this range, depending on subject choices and programme requirements.
Can students in this range still improve late in the programme?
Absolutely. Many students raise their final score significantly by focusing on technique, structure, and consistency.
Final Thoughts
Most IB students score between 24 and 34 points because that is how a challenging, well-designed qualification works. This range represents achievement, resilience, and sustained effort — not failure.
When students understand this, they stop chasing unrealistic benchmarks and start focusing on meaningful improvement. With the right strategy and support, progress is always possible — and that is exactly what RevisionDojo is built to deliver.
