The IB Diploma is scored out of 45: up to 42 points from six subjects graded 1 to 7, plus up to 3 core points from Theory of Knowledge (TOK) and the Extended Essay. You need at least 24 points to be awarded the diploma, but 24 alone is not enough, because other conditions also apply.
How are IB Diploma points calculated?
Per RevisionDojo’s IB scoring guide, each of six subjects is graded 1 to 7, giving a maximum of 42. TOK and the EE are graded A to E, and the two grades combine in a matrix to give 0 to 3 core points. For example, a B in TOK and a C in the EE give 2 core points. CAS (Creativity, Activity, Service) has no points, but completing it is required for the diploma. Higher level and standard level subjects both contribute a maximum of 7 points.
| Component | Maximum points |
|---|---|
| Six subjects (grades 1 to 7) | 42 |
| TOK and Extended Essay (core matrix) | 3 |
| CAS | 0, but compulsory |
| Total | 45 |
What is the 24-point rule?
The diploma needs a total of at least 24 points, but that is one condition among several. The diploma also depends on rules about minimum points across higher and standard level subjects, grades in TOK and the EE, and completed CAS. A student can reach 24 and still not receive the diploma, so check the full list with your coordinator and the IB assessment pages.
What does a worked example look like?
A student predicted to earn 5, 6 and 5 at higher level and 4, 4 and 3 at standard level has 16 + 11 = 27 subject points. With a B in TOK and a C in the EE, they add 2 core points for a total of 29 out of 45.
What do you need to hit a target?
Subtract the core points you expect, then divide by six. Example: you want 36 and expect 2 core points. You need 34 subject points, an average of 5.67 per subject, so in practice a mix of sixes and fives with one or two sevens. The target-grade method works the same way in any system, and we explain it in the target grade calculator guide.
What is a good IB score?
RevisionDojo reports the mean total for the May 2025 session was about 30.6 points, so anything above 30 is above average. What counts as good depends on the university. Many competitive programs publish their own expectations, so check each course page.
How should you track IB progress?
In MyStudyLife you can log each mock and assessment score, see the trend by subject, and set up revision tasks for the subject that needs it. Plan the TOK essay and EE milestones as tasks with reminders, and use the Pomodoro technique for deep work. IB parents can follow deadlines and posted scores through Family Connect.
FAQ
What is the highest IB score?
45 points, which needs a 7 in all six subjects and all three core points.
Do HL subjects earn more points than SL?
No. Both are graded out of 7.
Does CAS add points?
No, but you must complete it.
Related reading: Pomodoro technique for studying | Revision timetable | Study Tips
