Diploma award conditions (summary)

To receive the diploma, candidates must meet all of the following:

• 24+ points (or meet specific compensation rules for 23–24)
• No grade 1 in any subject
• No grade 2 at HL (or at most one, with compensation)
• No grade 3 at HL (or at most one, with compensation)
• All six subjects completed
• TOK completed (no grade E)
• EE completed (no grade E)
• CAS completed satisfactorily
• No academic misconduct

The IB applies these rules; schools can explain the details.

What happens if you don’t pass?

Diploma not awarded: If conditions are not met, the full diploma is not awarded.

Subject certificates: Candidates may receive certificates for individual subjects (with grades 1–7). Some universities accept these; check their policies.

Retakes

• Candidates may retake exams in a later session
• Usually only failed or weak subjects need to be retaken
• There may be a limit on how many times you can retake
• Check with your school and the IB for current rules

Compensation

In some cases, compensation is allowed—e.g. slightly below 24 points with very strong performance elsewhere, or one weak grade offset by strong grades. The IB applies these rules; they are not automatic.

CAS failures

If CAS is not completed satisfactorily, the diploma is not awarded even if all other conditions are met. CAS cannot be retaken in the same way as exams; discuss options with your CAS coordinator.

Academic misconduct

Malpractice (e.g. plagiarism, collusion) can lead to no grade, no diploma, or a ban. Follow academic honesty rules at all times.

Next steps if you don’t pass

• Discuss with your IB coordinator
• Consider retakes for specific subjects
• Check university policies on certificates and retakes
• Use support (tutoring, counselling) to prepare for retakes

How Tutopiya helps

Tutopiya supports IB retake preparation and subject improvement. Explore IB resources or book a free trial.

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Source: IB Diploma Programme