IB Examinations In Singapore: What You Must Know

Last updated January 2026

Quick Summary: The IB Diploma Programme examination consists of assessments in six subject groups plus the DP Core (Theory of Knowledge, Extended Essay, and CAS). Students are graded 1-7 per subject, with a maximum score of 45 points. A minimum of 24 points is required to earn the IB Diploma. In 2025, over 200,000 students worldwide completed the IB Diploma with an 81% global pass rate and average score of 30.58. At AIS Singapore, students consistently achieve above the global average, with five students earning perfect 45/45 scores since 2017.

Embarking on the journey of International Baccalaureate (IB) examinations in Singapore means stepping into a globally recognised qualification that opens doors to a world of opportunities.

The International Baccalaureate (IB) programme is more than an educational curriculum; it helps emphasise the development of well-rounded, globally-minded individuals. It represents academic excellence, critical thinking, and a broader understanding of the world. According to the International Baccalaureate Organisation, the IB Diploma is accepted by universities in over 140 countries, including Oxford, Cambridge, Stanford, and all Ivy League institutions.

In this article, we will help you navigate the IB examinations and equip you with the essential knowledge you need to navigate this challenge and get one step closer to your dream score.

The Guide to IB Examinations in Singapore

1. Structure of the IB Examinations

In your pursuit of the IB qualification, understanding the examination structure is crucial. The IB examinations consist of two main components: the DP Core Examination and the 6 Subject Groups Examination.

The DP Core Examination encompasses Theory of Knowledge (TOK), Extended Essay (EE), and Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS), while the 6 Subject Groups Examination evaluates your proficiency in six chosen subjects.

2. Understanding the DP Core Components

Theory of Knowledge (TOK)

TOK is an opportunity to reflect on the ways in which knowledge is acquired and applied, fostering critical thinking skills that are invaluable in academia and beyond. TOK prompts students to contemplate the essence of knowledge and the methods through which we substantiate our claims. Assessment includes an exhibition and a 1,600-word essay.

Extended Essay (EE)

The Extended Essay is your chance to delve into a topic of personal interest. This independent research project allows you to showcase your academic skills, from formulating a research question to presenting a well-structured essay. The EE involves autonomous, self-guided research culminating in a 4,000-word paper—excellent preparation for university-level research.

Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS)

CAS is not just about academics; it’s about holistic development. Engage in creative pursuits, physical activities, and community service to fulfil the CAS requirements and foster a well-rounded approach to learning. Students must complete a minimum of 18 months of CAS activities, demonstrating commitment to personal growth beyond the classroom.

3. The 6 Subject Groups Examination In The IB

The heart of the IB examinations lies in the assessment of your proficiency in six subject groups.

From language and literature to experimental sciences, mathematics, and the arts, each subject group offers a unique challenge and an opportunity to showcase your knowledge and skills. The diversity of subjects contributes to a well-rounded IB qualification.

The six subject groups for the IB are:

Group 1: Studies in Language and Literature
Group 2: Language Acquisition
Group 3: Individuals and Societies
Group 4: Sciences
Group 5: Mathematics
Group 6: The Arts

In each of the six subject groups, students will take either a Higher Level (HL) or Standard Level (SL) course. Students must complete three HL subjects and three SL subjects, with HL courses requiring approximately 240 teaching hours and SL courses requiring 150 hours.

IB students studying at Australian International School Singapore

4. Scoring in the IB Examination

Understanding how your performance is assessed is key to navigating the IB examinations. The grading system ranges from 1 to 7, with 7 being the highest.

Your total points are the sum of the scores from the 6 Subject Groups Examination (maximum 42 points) and the additional points earned in the DP Core (maximum 3 bonus points from TOK and EE combined).

Achieving a minimum of 24 points qualifies you for the IB Diploma, but higher scores can lead to additional recognition, including the coveted bilingual diploma. The total score ranges from 0 to 45.

IB Score benchmarks:

24 points: Minimum pass for IB Diploma
30+ points: Competitive for most universities
36+ points: Strong candidate for top-tier universities
40+ points: Exceptional achievement (top 10% globally)
45 points: Perfect score achieved by fewer than 1% of candidates

5. Where to Take the IB Examination in Singapore

Navigating the IB examinations also involves knowing where to take them. In Singapore, authorised IB examination centres are typically international schools and educational institutions that meet the stringent requirements set by the International Baccalaureate Organisation.

Singapore has over 30 IB World Schools offering the Diploma Programme, making it one of the highest concentrations of IB schools per capita in the world.

The Australian International School is one such institution that allows students to study the IB Diploma in Singapore and sit for the examinations. We provide a holistic approach to helping your child reach their full potential and score their very best in the IB examination.

Students preparing for IB examinations

Study the International Baccalaureate at the Australian International School

At the Australian International School (AIS), we provide a route towards academic excellence for the IB examination.

AIS IB Diploma Results:

Five students have achieved the perfect 45/45 score since 2017
Value Added Score of 1.02—exceeding Cambridge University’s “exceptional” benchmark, meaning students consistently outperform their predicted grades
Average scores consistently above the global average
100% university admission rate with graduates accepted to Cambridge, Stanford, University of Melbourne, NUS, and NTU

AIS is the only school in Singapore offering both the IB Diploma and Australian Higher School Certificate (HSC), giving families genuine pathway choice based on their child’s learning style and goals. Approximately 70% of our senior students choose the IB Diploma pathway.

Sitting for the IB examination is a big step towards your child’s future. AIS provides the best possible guidance and teaching to help students earn this valuable qualification that truly unlocks global opportunities for entering universities and beyond.

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