What Are IB Exams?

At the end of their IB courses, students take exams that give them the chance to show everything they’ve learned and how they can apply it in real-world ways. These exams aren’t just about memorizing facts—they encourage students to think critically, make connections across subjects, and express their ideas clearly. Depending on the class, assessments might include essays, problem-solving, data analysis, or even oral presentations. All IB exams are graded by trained examiners around the world, making the process fair and consistent. Success on these exams helps students earn their IB Diploma, which is highly respected by colleges and universities worldwide. 

Earning the IB Diploma
To earn the IB Diploma, students take six courses across different subject areas and complete the IB Core: the Extended Essay (a research project), the Theory of Knowledge course, and Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) projects.

Each exam is scored on a scale of 1–7 points, and students can earn up to 3 additional points from the Core, for a maximum total of 45 points. To receive the diploma, students need at least 24 points overall, along with meeting certain subject and Core requirements.

Most successful IB Diploma candidates score around 30 points worldwide. While 45 is the highest possible score, very few students achieve it—so earning the diploma itself is already a major accomplishment, highly valued by colleges and universities across the globe.

IB Diploma Points at a Glance

• 24 points → Minimum required to earn the IB Diploma

• ~30 points → Global average score for diploma earners

• 45 points → Maximum possible score (rare worldwide)

Higher Level vs Standard Level

IB students take a mix of Higher Level (HL) and Standard Level (SL) courses. To earn the diploma, students must complete at least 3 HL courses (but no more than 4) and the rest at SL, for a total of six courses. Together, HL and SL exams can earn students up to 45 points, but to meet diploma requirements, they need at least 12 points from HL exams and 9 points from SL exams (if taking 3 SLs) or 5 points from SL exams (if taking 2). 

Internal Assessments and the Individual Oral

IB assessment isn’t just about final exams. Each course also includes an Internal Assessment (IA), such as a project, essay, lab report, or oral presentation, which is graded by the teacher and moderated by IB examiners. In language and literature classes, students also complete an Individual Oral, where they analyze and reflect on texts in conversation with their teacher. These assessments count toward the final IB score and give students the chance to show their learning in different, often more personal, ways. 

Accommodations and IB Exams

Students who receive assessment accommodations via a 504 plan will receive the SAME accommodations for the IB exams. If you have any questions about your child's IB Exam accommodations, please contact jamie.lacava-owen@vbschools.com.

Exam Registration

Mrs. LaCava-Owen registers all students for their IB exams. Exam registration verifications are reviewed with all students and sent home to parents of seniors on October 1 and parents of juniors on October 15. It is important to note your IB examinations when registering for your AP Exams through Total Registration. This helps us identify any conflicts that may exists in your child's exam schedule.

Please click on the links below for more information about exams.