TOK and EE matrix 2026: every IB core-points combination

Work through B/C before planning a core retake

In the TOK/EE matrix, a B and a C award two core points. These points are added to the six subject grades; they are not another subject grade out of seven. If your subject subtotal is 30, two core points produce a total of 32.

Suppose your target is 33. The missing point might be addressed through a subject improvement or a different core outcome, but neither route is automatic. A core change may require new assessed work and supervision. It also does not fix a separate HL total or required university subject grade.

Understand core points · Check the complete score · Review retake constraints · How is TOK graded?

• Use the correct letter grades and follow their row/column intersection.
• Check the E/non-award conditions rather than interpreting E as simply zero bonus points.
• Confirm the feasibility and deadlines of any new core work with the coordinator.
• Remember that IBretake does not arrange new TOK, EE or IA supervision.

A higher core grade does not always add a point

Read a proposed change through the matrix before choosing a retake. These hypothetical examples hold every other grade constant. An E is a failing condition, not simply a zero-point result; CAS completion is a separate requirement and adds no points.

Official TOK–EE matrix · Check the full Diploma score

The matrix in one minute

Your six IB subjects can add up to 42 points. TOK and the Extended Essay can add up to 3 more, which is how the maximum Diploma score reaches 45.

The matrix rewards strong TOK and EE combinations: A/A, A/B and B/A sit at the top with 3 core points; a B in TOK and C in EE gives 2 points; weaker C/D or D/C combinations give 0. An E in TOK or EE is a failing condition, so core planning is not optional.

What goes into TOK

Theory of Knowledge is assessed through two pieces: the TOK exhibition and a 1,600-word TOK essay. Good TOK work is not about memorising definitions; it is about explaining how knowledge claims are built, challenged and justified.

The best students use precise objects or examples, clear claims, thoughtful counterclaims and a clean link back to the prescribed title or exhibition prompt.

What goes into the Extended Essay

The Extended Essay is an independent, self-directed research project that finishes as a 4,000-word paper. It needs a focused research question, a subject that fits the question, relevant evidence, analysis and academic referencing.

A strong EE does not just collect sources. It argues, evaluates methods, uses subject-specific thinking and shows reflection through the school supervision process.

What this means after results

If you are short of the Diploma or a university condition, separate two questions: did subject grades cause the problem, or did core points cause the problem? Retaking an exam subject will not automatically fix a weak TOK/EE combination.

IBretake helps with exam-hosting searches. It does not arrange new TOK, new EE supervision, CAS completion, coursework, IA, tutoring or oral preparation. If core grades are the issue, speak to your DP coordinator before building a retake plan.