The process of determining a final grade in the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) involves combining internal and external assessments. Internal assessments are marked by teachers according to set criteria, while external assessments, such as examinations, are marked by external examiners. The weighting of internal and external assessments varies by subject, reflecting the nature of the discipline and the skills being assessed. For example, a science subject might have a higher weighting on external examinations compared to a language subject, which might place more emphasis on internal oral assessments.
Accurate and fair grade calculation is fundamental to the integrity of the IBDP. It provides a standardized measure of student achievement recognized by universities worldwide. This standardized assessment allows institutions to compare students from diverse educational backgrounds, facilitating admissions processes. Furthermore, this system motivates students to engage with course material and develop a strong understanding of the subject matter through various assessment methods.