At a glance
- May 2027 results
- Early July 2027 (date set by the IB)
- November 2026 results
- Early January 2027
- Maximum score
- 45 points
- Minimum for the Diploma
- 24 points, plus core conditions
- Next retake session
- November 2027
IB results timeline for 2026-27
| Session | Exams | Results |
|---|---|---|
| November 2026 | 23 October to 13 November 2026 | Early January 2027 |
| May 2027 | Late April to 18 May 2027 | Early July 2027 |
| November 2027 (retakes) | Late October to November 2027 | Early January 2028 |
Sources: IB examination schedules and IB guidance, checked October 2026. The IB announces the exact results date and release time to schools before each release; ask your coordinator.
How the IB Diploma score is built
| Part | Points available |
|---|---|
| Six subjects (3 or 4 at Higher Level), graded 1 to 7 | Up to 42 |
| Theory of Knowledge and Extended Essay combined | Up to 3 |
| Total | 45 |
| Minimum to be awarded the Diploma | 24, with further conditions |
The further conditions include completing CAS, not receiving the lowest grade in TOK or the Extended Essay, and minimum points across Higher and Standard Level subjects. Your coordinator can explain any failing condition shown on the results.
What Gulf students do on results day
Most Gulf IB students are holding offers from universities in the UK, the US, Canada, Europe or the region. UK universities receive IB results directly through UCAS for applicants who applied there, and confirm offers in the days after; the UCAS Hub shows the decision. Universities in the US have usually admitted students already, but expect a final transcript. Regional universities such as those in the UAE and Saudi Arabia may need the Diploma certified or an equivalency issued by the ministry, which our equivalency guides explain.
If a result is below an offer, contact the university straight away. Many will still confirm a place if the student is a point or two short, especially in a strong overall profile. If not, UCAS Clearing opens other options in the UK.
If a grade looks wrong or too low
- Talk to the IB coordinator on results day. Only the school can request an enquiry upon results; students cannot contact the IB directly.
- Ask about the re-mark options and deadlines for the subject. A re-mark can move a grade up or down.
- If a university place depends on the outcome, tell the admissions office that a re-mark is in progress.
- If the gap is larger, plan a retake: November 2027 is the next session, and internal assessment marks usually carry forward.
Getting ready for a retake or the next stage
Students retaking a subject in November have about four months, which is enough to fix the two or three question types that cost the most marks. A tutor who teaches the subject starts from the student's actual paper and markscheme, then works through targeted past papers. For students heading to university, a few lessons over the summer in maths or a science can also close gaps before a demanding first year. Lessons are online, one to one and 60 minutes.
Common questions
When are IB results released in 2027?
May 2027 session results are released in early July 2027. The IB confirms the exact date and time to schools during the spring, so check with your coordinator.
How do I get my IB results?
Online, through the IB's candidate results service, with the personal code and PIN your coordinator gives you. Your school also receives the results.
What is a good IB score?
24 points is the minimum for the Diploma. Competitive UK and US universities often ask for 36 to 40 or more, with specific Higher Level grades.
Can I retake IB exams?
Yes. Retakes are usually in the November session, so November 2027 for May 2027 candidates, registered through a school. Internal assessment marks normally carry forward.
How much do IB retake lessons cost?
$15 per 60-minute one-to-one lesson, on a weekly plan of 1 to 5 lessons billed monthly. The first lesson is a free trial.
Sources
Dates and figures on this page come from these official and published sources. Always confirm deadlines on the official page before acting on them.