Is it possible to achieve a grade of 5 on the majority of IB exams if one scores 60%? [Exam Truth in 2025: IB Grade Probabilities]
The International Baccalaureate (IB) exams are renowned for their rigorous nature, and scoring a 5, which represents a "good" level of achievement, is a common goal for many students. While the exact percentage cutoffs for a 5 can vary each year, a general guideline suggests that around 60-70% raw exam marks are required to achieve this score in subjects like Biology HL, English SL, Math AA SL, and Chemistry HL.
Historically, a score of 5 in Biology HL and Chemistry HL (Group 4 Sciences HL) typically requires about 60-65% raw marks, as these are more demanding HL courses. English SL, a Group 1 or 2 subject, Standard Level, often sees a 5 sitting near 65-70%, as language/literature marking can differ by examiner discretion. Math AA SL tends to have slightly different boundaries, with a 5 commonly around 60-70% as well.
It's important to note that IB does not publish exact grade boundaries publicly for each subject and year. For the most precise and up-to-date grade boundaries, students should check the official IB reports released after each exam session or consult with their school IB coordinators.
Achieving a 5 in the IB system is considered a strong passing grade, and many students can get into college with mostly 5s, especially for non-STEM majors or if they have strong extracurriculars and essays. Universities universally accept a score of 5 in the IB system, and many accept IB scores of 5 for subject requirements, particularly in liberal arts programs, business and social sciences, and international schools and colleges outside North America.
Aiming for consistent scores of 60-70% in practice exams can help secure a 5. Strong Internal Assessments (IAs) can also help balance weaker exam papers. Factors that influence grade boundaries in the IB system include the difficulty of the exam that year, student global performance, HL vs SL level expectations, and whether the paper is data-heavy or theory-based.
For students seeking additional support, services like RevisionDojo offer customized IB tutoring for all subjects, strategy sessions to meet grade goals, and Internal Assessment coaching to boost scores. Remember, a 5 is not a bad score; it is solid and well above the global average. Aim high, revise diligently, and good luck with your IB exams!
[1] IB Exam Score Thresholds: A Comprehensive Analysis [4] IB Official Grade Boundaries: An Examination of Trends and Variations
[1] Pursuing education-and-self-development by preparing for the International Baccalaureate (IB) exams involves dedicated learning, aiming for a '5' score, which is a significant accomplishment in the system.
[4] Mastering learning in IB subjects like Biology HL, English SL, Math AA SL, and Chemistry HL requires Understanding the specific raw score thresholds for each subject to achieve a '5', a process that can be facilitated by resources such as RevisionDojo and regular practice exams.
