IB Results Statement: Layout Explained

Getting your IB results can feel like a big moment. After all the work you’ve put into completing your IB Diploma Programme, you’re likely to feel both excited and nervous about seeing your results.

However, when you first access your results, the layout and terminology may not feel immediately clear. IB results are presented slightly differently from other qualifications, and you may see points, subject scores, and additional information that can be confusing at first.

This guide explains the layout of your IB results statement, so you can understand exactly what each section shows and what it means for your overall score.

Key Takeaways

• IB results are accessed online rather than through a traditional results paper

• Your results show points for each subject, along with your total Diploma score

• Additional information includes core points from TOK and the Extended Essay

• Universities often receive your results directly through official IB transcripts

What Is an IB Results Statement?

IB results are issued by the International Baccalaureate Organization (opens in a new tab) and are accessed through the IB candidate portal (opens in a new tab), rather than as a printed results slip.

You will log in to view your official results on IB results day using your personal details. Our guide explains exactly how to check your IB score.

It’s important to understand that this is not the same as an official transcript. Universities typically receive your results directly from the IB if you have requested this in advance.

If you need formal proof of your results later, you can request an official transcript from the IB.

Understanding Your IB Results Layout

IB results are accessed digitally, and the information is presented in a structured way. Each section shows a different part of your performance in the Diploma Programme.

Below is a breakdown of the key sections you are likely to see.

Personal Details Section

This section includes your name and candidate details.

It is important to check this information carefully. If anything is incorrect, you should contact your school or IB coordinator as soon as possible so it can be resolved.

School Information

Your results will also include details of your school or examination centre.

This identifies where you completed your IB programme and ensures your results are correctly recorded.

Examination Session

IB results are linked to a specific session, such as May or November, along with the year.

This is important if you take exams in different sessions or need to refer to your results in the future.

Subjects and Course Levels

Each subject you have taken will be listed, along with whether it was studied at Higher Level (HL) or Standard Level (SL).

This is an important distinction, as HL and SL courses have different levels of difficulty and assessment requirements.

Grades and Points

Instead of letter grades, IB subjects are graded on a scale from 1 to 7.

Your results will show the number of points you achieved for each subject. These contribute to your overall Diploma score. Your results will also indicate whether you have been awarded the IB Diploma, based on your total score and whether you have met all programme requirements.

You will also see your total points score, which is out of a maximum of 45.

This total includes:

• up to 42 points from your six subjects

• up to 3 additional points from Theory of Knowledge (TOK) and the Extended Essay (EE)

If you want to understand how IB grades are calculated in more detail, you can refer to our guide explaining IB grades.

Core Points (TOK and Extended Essay)

Your results will include a combined score for Theory of Knowledge and the Extended Essay.

These are shown as additional points added to your overall total.

Performance in these core components can make a difference to your final Diploma outcome.

Remember: you must also complete CAS (Creativity, Activity, Service) to be awarded the Diploma, although it does not contribute to your points score.

Special Codes and Annotations on Your IB Results

In some cases, your results may include codes or notes instead of, or alongside, scores. These provide additional information about your results.

Absence Codes

If you were absent from an assessment, this will be reflected in your results. The exact notation may vary, so your IB coordinator can explain how this appears on your results.

Pending Results

A pending result means that a final grade has not yet been confirmed.

This may happen if marking is still being completed or if additional checks are required. Your school will be able to advise you on what to expect next.

Withheld Results

A withheld result means that the IB has temporarily held back your result.

This could happen if there is an issue that needs to be investigated, such as administrative checks or a potential malpractice concern. Your school will provide further guidance if this applies to you.

Other Special Circumstances

Other annotations may appear depending on your situation. These could relate to special consideration, administrative issues, or other factors affecting your results.

If anything is unclear, it is always best to check with your IB coordinator or school.

What to Do If There’s an Error on Your Results

If you think there is an error in your results, you should contact your IB coordinator or school immediately.

They can review your details and, if necessary, contact the IB to investigate or correct the issue.

It is important to act quickly, especially if your results affect university offers or next steps.

Frequently Asked Questions

When will I receive my IB results?

IB results are released on specific dates in July (May session) and January (November session). You can access them online through the IB candidate portal.

What’s the difference between the results screen and an official transcript?

Your results screen shows your grades on results day. An official transcript is sent directly to universities or provided on request as formal proof of your results.

Can I request a remark if I’m unhappy with my grades?

Yes, you can request a re-mark (called an enquiry upon results) through your school. There are deadlines and fees, so you should speak to your IB coordinator as soon as possible.

Can I get a copy of my IB results later?

Yes, you can request transcripts from the IB if you need official copies of your results in the future.

Final Thoughts

IB results can look confusing at first, but once you understand what each part means, it becomes much easier to see how you’ve performed.

Focus on your subject scores, your total points, and whether you’ve been awarded the Diploma. If anything doesn’t make sense, speak to your IB coordinator or a teacher. They’re used to looking at these results pages and will be able to guide you through it.

If you’re preparing for your IB exams, our comprehensive IB revision resources will help you get set for success. We have past papers, revision notes, and topic questions, all tailored to the IB curriculum. Hopefully, you’ll be logging in to that portal with a big smile on your face on results day. Good luck with your Diploma!

References:

• Getting results - International Baccalaureate® (opens in a new tab)

• Requesting transcripts and certificates - International Baccalaureate® (opens in a new tab)

• Transcripts FAQ - International Baccalaureate® (opens in a new tab)

• IBO Candidates | Portal (opens in a new tab)