Several threads speculated about grade boundaries. One student asked for predictions for the 2025 AA HL grade boundaries compared with November 2024reddit.com. A topical discussion described a petition to lower grade boundaries which amassed over 20,000 signaturesreddit.com. Students argued that the May 2025 exams were unusually difficult and that boundaries should be reduced.
Answer:
- Understand how grade boundaries are set. The IB does not predetermine grade boundaries based solely on petition or students’ feelings. Boundaries are determined by examiners after papers are marked, based on statistical analyses of candidate performance and the difficulty of the papers. A challenging exam can result in lower boundaries, but the adjustment is done systematically.
- Why speculation is unreliable. Reddit threads often host speculation and even unofficial “boundary predictions” compiled from small student samples. While it is clear that many found the May 2025 papers tough—the petition indicates widespread perception of difficultyreddit.com—students in one region may have had different experiences than global cohorts. Grade boundaries are set for the global candidate group. Therefore, predicted boundaries on social media should not be relied upon as fact.
- Focus on performance rather than boundaries. Since boundaries are out of your control, concentrate on demonstrating as much knowledge as possible. When practising past papers, aim for consistent high scores but remember that final grades account for internal assessments as well. If you feel an exam was exceptionally hard, rest assured that examiners will consider this when adjusting boundaries.
- Stay updated with official releases. Grade boundaries are published after results day. Until then, avoid stress by ignoring rumours. If the IB releases statements (e.g., acknowledging the petition), trust official channels over speculation.