Introduction
The International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme sets rigorous academic standards across a range of subjects. Understanding the 2025 grade boundaries is essential for students to plan their study strategy, set realistic targets, and maximize their performance in exams and coursework.
This guide covers HL and SL subjects, Theory of Knowledge (TOK), Extended Essay (EE), and provides tips for achieving top grades.
Quick Start Checklist for IB Success
- ✅ Familiarize yourself with the grading criteria and mark schemes for each subject.
- ✅ Track your progress using past papers and examiner reports.
- ✅ Practice time management for exams and internal assessments.
- ✅ Balance content knowledge with analytical and critical thinking skills.
- ✅ Document all practical or research work thoroughly.
Core IB Components
Theory of Knowledge (TOK) – out of 30
- Grade A: 22–30
- Grade B: 16–21
- Grade C: 10–15
- Grade D: 4–9
- Grade E: 0–3
Extended Essay (EE) – out of 34
- Grade A: 27–34
- Grade B: 21–26
- Grade C: 14–20
- Grade D: 7–13
- Grade E: 0–6
Language A Subjects
Example: Spanish A: Literature HL – Final out of 100
- Grade 7: 82–100
- Grade 6: 69–81
- Grade 5: 55–68
- Grade 4: 42–54
- Grade 3: 29–41
- Grade 2: 15–28
- Grade 1: 0–14
Example: Turkish A: Literature SL – Final out of 100
- Grade 7: 76–100
- Grade 6: 65–75
- Grade 5: 53–64
- Grade 4: 42–52
- Grade 3: 27–41
- Grade 2: 14–26
- Grade 1: 0–13
Mathematics Subjects
Mathematics Analysis HL – Final out of 100
- Grade 7: 79–100
- Grade 6: 65–78
- Grade 5: 52–64
- Grade 4: 37–51
- Grade 3: 26–36
- Grade 2: 14–25
- Grade 1: 0–13
Mathematics Analysis SL – Final out of 100
- Grade 7: 80–100
- Grade 6: 67–79
- Grade 5: 53–66
- Grade 4: 37–52
- Grade 3: 26–36
- Grade 2: 13–25
- Grade 1: 0–12
Sciences
Sports Exercise Science HL – Final out of 100
- Grade 7: 72–100
- Grade 6: 60–71
- Grade 5: 46–59
- Grade 4: 34–45
- Grade 3: 21–33
- Grade 2: 13–20
- Grade 1: 0–12
Sports Exercise Science SL – Final out of 100
- Grade 7: 79–100
- Grade 6: 65–78
- Grade 5: 51–64
- Grade 4: 37–50
- Grade 3: 23–36
- Grade 2: 14–22
- Grade 1: 0–13
Tips for Achieving Top IB Grades
- Exams: Practice past papers, timed responses, and mark schemes to understand expectations.
- Internal Assessments & Practical Work: Document methods, results, reflections, and evaluations clearly.
- Core Components (TOK & EE): Develop critical thinking, clear argumentation, and coherent analysis.
- Time Management: Balance revision across subjects to avoid last-minute stress.
- Consistent Review: Track progress against grade boundaries to focus on weaker areas.
Conclusion
Understanding the 2025 IB grade boundaries enables students to set clear academic targets across all subjects. With strategic preparation, consistent practice, and attention to detail in both exams and internal assessments, achieving a Level 7 or an A in core components is fully attainable.