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If you're wondering about the amount of IB students that obtained a score of 45 points, you've come to the right place. In this post we will share the amount of candidates that managed to obtain a perfect IB score.
How many IB students get 45?
Although the IB ceased publishing the number of candidates who achieved a perfect score of 45 after the May 2023 session – citing a desire to celebrate the achievements of all students – data from previous exam sessions still provides a useful indication of how many students reach this top score.
While the amount of students that obtain a score of 45 points varies from year to year, usually, the amount of students that manage to obtain a perfect score ranges between 0.2% – 1% of the total amount candidates.
The amount of students that managed to obtain a score of 45 points over the years is as follows:
- November 2022 – 0.9%
- May 2022 – 0.4%
- November 2021 – 1.7%
- May 2021 – 0.8%
- November 2020 – 0.6%
- May 2020 – 0.2%
- November 2019 – 0.5%
- May 2019 – 0.2%
- November 2018 – 0.5%
- May 2018 – 0.2%
- November 2017 – 0.6%
- May 2017 – 0.2%
It is clear that the number of students achieving a perfect score of 45 varies from year to year. Notably, significantly more students obtained perfect scores during the period when exams were canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic – particularly between November 2020 and November 2021. Additionally, data suggests that a higher proportion of students tend to achieve a score of 45 in the November sessions. However, this does not necessarily indicate that the November session is easier; other factors, such as a greater number of re-take candidates, likely contribute to the higher percentage.
How to achieve a perfect score of 45?
- Understand the assessment criteria. Familiarise yourself with the mark schemes and rubrics for each subject. Knowing exactly what examiners are looking for – whether it's in an essay, an IA, or an oral – will help you tailor your work to meet the highest standards without spending time and effort on less important parts.
- Maintain a healthy balance. Taking breaks and allowing yourself time to rest is just as important as studying. Make space in your schedule for relaxation and activities you enjoy, whether it's a hobby or simply unwinding. This will help you recharge, avoid burnout, and make your study sessions far more effective.
- Excel in the IB Core. Don’t underestimate the importance of the Core components – TOK and the Extended Essay. Scoring well in TOK and the EE can earn you up to 3 additional points, which can make the difference. Choose topics you're genuinely interested in, start early, and work consistently. There is also plenty of exemplars for TOK and the EE available on our website so feel free to take inspiration from them. You can also use Clastify's Review Service to get tailored feedback for your TOK coursework and the EE.
- Prioritise quality over quantity. Spending hours studying doesn’t always lead to better results. Focused, active revision – such as practice papers, flashcards, and teaching concepts to others – is far more effective than passive reading or cramming.
- Practice past papers under exam conditions. Get used to the format, timing, and pressure of real exams. Practice not just answering questions, but doing so within time limits. This builds confidence and exam technique, which can boost your performance on the day.
- Craft strong IAs. The Internal Assessment usually accounts for around 20% of the final grade and hence it is crucial that you submit a strong piece of work if you're aiming for a perfect score. To help you structure and writer your IAs, make sure to visit Clastify for a wide range of exemplars. Also, make sure to check out Clastify's Review Service for personalised feedback on your IAs.
We hope you found this post helpful. For more useful materials associated with the IB check out the wide variety of IA, EE and TOK exemplars available at Clastify and other guides available on our blog.
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