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

TOK and EE matrix: all grade combinations

Find the Extended Essay grade in the left column, then follow that row to the TOK grade. Enter the final A–E grades, not raw essay marks or subject grades out of seven.

*An E in either component prevents the Diploma being awarded. A zero-point combination such as D/D is different: all other Diploma requirements, including CAS, must still be met. Official IB passing criteria and matrix.

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? · IB Core Retakes: TOK, Extended Essay and Incomplete CAS

• 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

The six subject grades contribute up to 42 points. Add the matrix result once to reach a maximum of 45; do not add separate TOK and EE points on top of that result.

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

TOK’s final letter grade comes from the exhibition and an essay of up to 1,600 words. The matrix uses that overall TOK grade, not the mark for either assessment component on its own.

What goes into the Extended Essay

The Extended Essay is an independent research essay of up to 4,000 words. A focused research question, relevant evidence, analysis and academic referencing contribute to its assessment. Use the awarded EE letter grade in the matrix.

The redesigned EE is first assessed in May 2027. For new or resubmitted work, ask the coordinator which guide applies rather than relying on an older checklist or raw-mark boundary.

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.

The IBretake host-school search does not include new TOK or EE supervision, CAS completion, internal assessment or other coursework supervision, tutoring or oral preparation. Discuss any missing core requirement with your DP coordinator. Any optional preparation service offered separately has its own scope and price; see the service terms.