IB Predicted Grades: How They Work for University Applications
What are predicted grades?
Predicted grades are teachers’ estimates of the grade a candidate is expected to achieve in each subject, TOK and the EE. They are based on coursework, tests and the teacher’s knowledge of IB standards.
When are they used?
- University applications—many universities use predicted grades for offers (especially UK, Canada, Australia)
- IB submission—schools submit predictions to the IB before exams
- Early offers—conditional offers often depend on meeting predicted grades in final exams
How are they decided?
Teachers use:
- Classwork and homework
- Internal assessments and mock exams
- Progress over time
- Knowledge of IB grade descriptors
The IB expects predictions to be accurate—neither systematically high nor low.
Important points
- Predictions are estimates, not guarantees
- Universities may set conditions (e.g. “36 points with 6,6,6 at HL”)
- Final grades can be higher or lower than predicted
- Over-prediction can lead to rejected applications; under-prediction can limit choices
For parents and students
- Discuss progress with teachers
- Use mocks and IAs as indicators
- Apply to a range of universities (reach, match, safety)
- Focus on improving weak areas
How Tutopiya helps
Tutopiya supports IB revision and exam preparation. Explore IB resources or book a free trial.
Source: IB Assessment
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