Is It Actually Possible to Get a 45 on the IB Exam? [Reality Check & Success Plan]

What Is a 45 in the IB DP?

A perfect 45 in the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IB DP) represents:

• 42 points from six subjects (each graded 1–7)
• 3 bonus points from the Extended Essay (EE) and Theory of Knowledge (TOK)

To achieve this, a student needs near-perfect or perfect marks in every subject, plus top scores in the core.

How Rare Is a 45 in IB?

• Globally, only 1–2% of students score a 45 each year.
• In 2023, about 2,600 out of ~180,000 students hit the mark.
• 45s are more common in:
  • Schools with strong IB support systems
  • Students who have done MYP or other pre-IB prep
  • HL-heavy combinations in subjects with higher historical grade boundaries

Traits of Students Who Score 45

These students don’t all come from elite schools or genius backgrounds. What they share is:

• 🔁 Consistency: Staying disciplined every week, not just before exams
• 🧠 Self-awareness: Knowing how they learn best and when to seek help
• 🛠️ Resourcefulness: Using examiner reports, mark schemes, and study tools
• 😌 Emotional Regulation: They don’t panic under pressure—and they schedule breaks

Common Myths About Scoring 45

❌ “You need to be a genius.”

False. Many 45 scorers describe themselves as average students who learned how to work smart.

❌ “Only international schools produce 45s.”

Wrong. Public school students from all over the world—India, Canada, Kenya, Colombia—achieve 45s.

❌ “It’s about luck.”

Partial truth. While test-day factors play a role, long-term preparation is key.

Challenges to Getting a 45

• Every point counts: A few lost marks on an IA or Paper 2 can make the difference
• EE and TOK pressure: A B grade here can block you from bonus points
• Burnout risk: Many high achievers push too hard too early and collapse by mocks

How to Plan Strategically for a 45

🎯 Smart Subject Selection

• Choose subjects that:
  • Align with your strengths
  • Are well-taught at your school

📅 Year-by-Year Breakdown

• Year 1: Focus on understanding syllabus, IA drafts, and TOK foundations
• Year 2: Lock in EE, start timed practice, and begin exam review early

Study Techniques of IB 45 Scorers

• 📘 Active recall: Flashcards, self-quizzing, teaching others
• 📝 Condensed notes: One-pagers per topic, not textbooks
• 📤 Self-assess: Use rubrics to grade your own essays or IA sections

Real 45/45 Student Stories

“I studied 3 hours/day, but always took Sundays off.” – Sophia (UK)
“My IA drafts were done early—so I could focus on exams stress-free.” – Marcus (Singapore)
“I didn’t study more than others. I just revised better.” – Arjun (India)

They weren’t superhuman—but they stuck to a plan, got help when needed, and avoided perfectionism.

FAQs – Getting a 45 in IB

How many hours a day did 45 scorers study?

2–4 hours during term, 5–6 hours during exam season—with breaks and balance.

Is it worth the pressure?

Only if your goal aligns with it. A 45 is incredible—but so is a 42 with less stress.

Can you still have a life?

Yes—with structure. All 45 scorers make time for rest, hobbies, and social life.

What’s the best way to increase my final score?

• Identify weak points (IA, Paper 2, etc.)
• Study smarter, not longer

What happens if I score 45?

• Scholarships, early university admission, and sometimes credit
• Personal satisfaction that you’ve mastered an elite program

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