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Grades in the International Baccalaureate (IB) are based on a combination of internal assessments—such as assignments and projects completed throughout the course—and external examinations, in which students sit written tests assessed by official IB examiners. This combination of continuous assessment and final exams provides a well-rounded measure of a student’s knowledge and skills across all IB subjects.
How is the International Baccalaureate assessed?
In the IB Diploma Programme, subjects are graded on a scale from 1 to 7, with 7 being the highest score. Additionally, students can earn up to 3 extra points for the Extended Essay and Theory of Knowledge (TOK), resulting in a maximum possible total of 45 points. To be awarded the IB Diploma, students must earn at least 24 points and meet minimum requirements across all components of the program.
Internal assessment
Throughout the programme, students must complete various evaluative activities, which may include projects, assignments, and tests assessed by their teachers. To ensure fairness and consistency, a sample of this work is externally moderated by the IB.
External assessment
At the end of the programme, students take written exams, which are assessed by official IB examiners. Exams are held in two sessions, in May and November. In the case of IB Online, students may take the exams in person at a nearby IB school, upon prior request by their institution.
Equivalence between IB grades and Spanish grades
IB grades can be equated to the Spanish grading scale to help you understand how your results align with local academic standards. Below is an International Baccalaureate to Spanish grade conversion table.
| IB Score | Spanish Grade |
| 24 | 5.00 |
| 25 | 5.28 |
| 26 | 5.55 |
| 27 | 5.83 |
| 28 | 6.11 |
| 29 | 6.39 |
| 30 | 6.66 |
| 31 | 6.94 |
| 32 | 7.22 |
| 33 | 7.49 |
| 34 | 7.77 |
| 35 | 8.05 |
| 36 | 8.32 |
| 38 | 8.88 |
| 39 | 9.16 |
| 40 | 9.43 |
| 41 | 9.71 |
| 42–45 | 10.00 |
As shown, a minimum IB score of 24 corresponds to a 5.00 in Spain, while the highest IB scores (42–45) equate to the top Spanish grade of 10.00. This comparison helps interpret and evaluate IB results within the Spanish academic system, especially for university admissions and official recognition.
What is the highest possible IB score?
The highest possible score in the International Baccalaureate is 45 points. This total is made up of grades earned in each subject, which are scored on a scale from 1 to 7, as well as up to 3 additional points awarded for successful completion of the Extended Essay and the Theory of Knowledge (TOK) components. Together, these contribute to the final diploma score, reflecting a student’s overall academic performance throughout the programme.
Are there cut-off scores in the IB?
Yes, Cut-off scores are determined by combining the IB average (converted to the Spanish grading scale) and the extra points earned through the Specific Competency Tests (PCE) or via IB subject recognition. This combined score helps universities evaluate applicants fairly and align international qualifications with local academic standards.
