IB to A-Level Equivalence Calculator (2025): How to Translate IB Points, HL/SL, and UCAS Tariff—Clearly and Safely
IB → A‑Level Equivalence Calculator
Includes HL/SL mapping • Offer‑band estimateChoose input mode
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Total IB points
Equivalence model
# | Level | IB grade | A‑Level equivalent |
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Why “IB ⇄ A-Level equivalence” is tricky (and how to do it right)
Equivalence isn’t a single magic chart—it’s a translation across different academic dialects:
A-Level is subject-based (usually 3–4 subjects, graded A*–E).
IB Diploma Programme (IBDP) is a broader mix (6 subjects at Higher Level and Standard Level + Core: TOK/EE/CAS), graded 1–7 with a maximum of 45 points (42 from subjects + up to 3 core points).
UCAS Tariff is a points framework many UK universities use to compare different qualifications. It’s helpful, but not every university admits by tariff—many prefer grade-based offers (e.g., “AAA” at A-Level or “36 with 6,6,6 at HL” for IB).
Because universities set different offer patterns (points, grades, subject minimums), you should treat any conversion as an estimate unless a university explicitly publishes a mapping. The safest route is to (a) understand the logic, (b) use a transparent, conservative method, and (c) state your assumptions whenever you self-report.
What an “IB to A-Level equivalence calculator” should—and shouldn’t—do
A reliable calculator should help you:
Pick a pathway:
Route 1 (Offer-style): Translate a target A-Level offer (e.g., AAA) into a typical IB offer pattern (e.g., “36 with 6,6,6 at HL”).
Route 2 (Tariff-style): Convert a UCAS tariff target to IB/HL combinations or vice versa.
Route 3 (Diploma total): Turn IB total points into a ballpark A-Level profile (purely indicative).
Expose assumptions clearly: state if you’re using tariff points (and which table), subject-by-subject mapping, or a generic linear estimate.
Avoid definitive promises: No calculator can guarantee admission equivalence. Universities may require specific HL subjects or minimum grades independent of diploma totals.
Pro tip: When in doubt, mirror how UK offers are phrased:
A-Level: “AAA including Mathematics”
IB: “36 points with 6,6 in HL Maths and Physics”
That is a style, not a universal rule—always check the page for your course and university.
IB structures in one glance (so you can translate properly)
Higher Level (HL) vs Standard Level (SL): HL = deeper content and more teaching hours; SL = standard depth.
Total score: 6 subjects (1–7 each) + up to 3 core points (TOK/EE) → out of 45.
Universities care about HL: When converting to A-Level, pay most attention to HL performance because A-Level is a deep subject qualification.
Three safe DIY methods (use one, disclose it)
Use these to build your own “calculator logic.” You don’t need exact UCAS tables to estimate responsibly.
Method A — Offer-style patterning
Start with a target A-Level offer (e.g., AAA).
Pick a typical IB offer pattern seen for similar courses at peer universities (e.g., 36 with 6,6,6 at HL; or 35 with 6,6,5 at HL).
Adjust for subject specificity (e.g., HL Maths required vs optional).
When to use: You’ve found several comparable programmes and want an IB phrasing that mirrors their admissions style.
Method B — Subject-by-subject equivalence
Treat HL 6/7 as often aligning with A/A* rigor (context-dependent), and HL 5 roughly in the B range.
SL grades are generally viewed below HL when comparing to deep subject study like A-Level.
Build an indicative “profile equivalence” from your three strongest HLs.
When to use: You’re translating individual strengths (e.g., HL trio) to an A-Level-like picture.
Method C — Tariff-style (UCAS) estimation
If a university talks in UCAS tariff, use their official calculator or published tables to sum tariff from your IB components.
Beware: some universities don’t use tariff at all and will set subject-level grade conditions—these override any tariff “total.”
When to use: A course explicitly sets tariff totals or you want a rough marketplace comparison.
None of these methods is “the one true way.” They’re transparent tools to communicate your profile in another system’s language.
Practical examples (indicative, not official)
A-Level AAA often corresponds to an IB pattern like 36 with 6,6,6 at HL (or 35 with 6,6,5), depending on course competitiveness.
A-Level AAB might align with 34–35 IB with 6,6,5 at HL, but maths-heavy courses can be stricter on HL Maths specifically.
Highly selective courses (e.g., some medicine/engineering/compsci) may prefer 38–40 with 7,6 at HL (or HL Maths AA), even if the A-Level phrasing is “A*AA”.
Always verify the course page; two degrees at the same university can phrase IB offers differently.
UCAS Tariff, decoded briefly
What it is: A points framework to compare qualifications (A-Level, IB, BTEC, etc.).
What it isn’t: A guarantee that X tariff auto-translates into an offer. Many universities don’t use tariff and publish grade-specific requirements instead.
How to use safely: If a course states a tariff target (e.g., 112), use the UCAS calculator to estimate your IB profile’s tariff. If the course states grades (e.g., “36 with 6,6,6 HL”), focus on meeting those grades.
FAQs — Every keyword covered (question phrased exactly, with clear answers)
Each entry keeps the keyword intact and gives a natural, no-nonsense explanation. Where numbers vary by institution, we flag that clearly.
1) a level and ib
Answer: “A level and IB” are two different pre-university pathways. A-Level is deep study in usually 3–4 subjects; IB is broader with 6 subjects (HL/SL) + Core. Universities publish separate offer styles for each.
2) ib alevel
Answer: The phrase “ib alevel” usually means converting IB performance to an A-Level-style profile. The safest comparison is through HL grades (e.g., HL 6/7 roughly maps to top A-Level outcomes, context-dependent).
3) ib to a level
Answer: “ib to a level” conversion is not official anywhere. Use offer-style or tariff-style methods to produce an estimate, and always check the course’s admissions page.
4) international baccalaureate diploma equivalent
Answer: There isn’t one single “international baccalaureate diploma equivalent.” Equivalence depends on country and course. In the UK, many universities treat a strong IB Diploma (e.g., high 30s with strong HLs) as comparable to top A-Level outcomes.
5) a level baccalaureate
Answer: “a level baccalaureate” mixes two systems. A-Levels are UK subject qualifications. “Baccalaureate” usually refers to the International Baccalaureate diploma or to national baccalaureates in other countries.
6) a level ib equivalent
Answer: For “a level ib equivalent,” universities often publish patterns (e.g., A-Level AAA ≈ IB 36 with 6,6,6 at HL). Exact equivalence varies by subject/course.
7) ap level
Answer: “ap level” refers to Advanced Placement (US). AP is another rigorous pathway separate from A-Level/IB; universities set their own AP requirements and credit policies.
8) higher level ib
Answer: “higher level ib” (HL) is the deeper IB subject level. Universities weigh HL more heavily when comparing to A-Level because A-Level also reflects deep subject study.
9) ib diploma higher level
Answer: “ib diploma higher level” means HL subjects within the IB Diploma. Offers often specify HL grade minima (e.g., 6,6 in HL subjects).
10) ib diploma level
Answer: “ib diploma level” refers to the overall qualification (IBDP). It includes HL and SL subjects plus Core (TOK/EE/CAS), scored out of 45.
11) ib higher
Answer: “ib higher” is shorthand for IB Higher Level—the advanced track per subject (vs SL). Admissions conditions typically focus on HL.
12) ib level to percentage
Answer: “ib level to percentage” has no universal chart. Some schools publish internal percentage bands for 1–7, but universities admit by grades/points, not in-house percentages.
13) ib standard level
Answer: “ib standard level” (SL) is the standard depth for an IB subject. SL is valuable, but HL is the closest analogue to A-Level depth.
14) ib standard level math
Answer: “ib standard level math” is the SL track in IB Mathematics (AA or AI). For maths-intensive degrees, many universities prefer HL Maths.
15) ib to ucas points
Answer: “ib to ucas points” means converting IB achievements to the UCAS Tariff. Use the UCAS calculator or university-published tables; note that many courses publish grade-based IB offers instead.
16) ibdp level
Answer: “ibdp level” = International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme—the full diploma out of 45.
17) international baccalaureate a level equivalent
Answer: There is no single “international baccalaureate a level equivalent.” Rough guide: strong HL results (6/7) often align with A/A* at A-Level, but check course pages.
18) international baccalaureate hl
Answer: “international baccalaureate hl” is HL inside IB. HL grades are the key reference point when universities compare to A-Levels.
19) international baccalaureate standard level
Answer: “international baccalaureate standard level” (SL) is standard depth; still respected, but for equivalence with A-Level depth, HL is the focus.
20) international baccalaureate ucas points
Answer: “international baccalaureate ucas points” = tariff points attributed to IB components. Not all universities use tariff; many use grade-specific offers.
21) ib advanced certificate in teaching and learning research
Answer: This is an IB educator qualification, not a pre-university student award. It doesn’t convert to A-Level/UCAS in the same way as IBDP student grades.
22) 104 ucas points in ib
Answer: “104 ucas points in ib” depends on the UCAS tariff mix across your IB components. Use the official UCAS calculator; some courses don’t accept tariff and demand HL grade minima instead.
23) 112 ucas points in ib
Answer: As above—“112 ucas points in ib” is a tariff view, typically achievable through particular combinations of HL/SL grades. Confirm with UCAS tables and your target university’s preferences.
24) 128 ucas points in ib
Answer: “128 ucas points in ib” is a higher tariff target. Use UCAS to sum your components. Remember: if a course lists grade-based IB offers, that supersedes tariff.
25) 24 ib points a level equivalent
Answer: “24 ib points a level equivalent” signals a pass in the IB Diploma, not commonly equivalent to competitive A-Level offers for selective courses. Entry standards vary by university and subject.
26) 27 ib points a level equivalent
Answer: 27 is above the minimum pass. In A-Level terms, it’s generally below the typical AAA/AAB competitive range. Always check specific course requirements.
27) 28 ib points a level equivalent
Answer: 28 remains on the lower side for selective admissions; equivalence to A-Level depends on course and HS record. Check foundation or less competitive pathways if needed.
28) 30 ib points a level equivalent
Answer: 30 is sometimes competitive for non-selective degrees or foundation years. For courses listing A-Level BBB/AAB, many universities might expect mid-30s in IB.
29) 32 ib points a level equivalent
Answer: 32 can approach some courses asking A-Level BBB; many prefer 33–35+ in IB. Verify per course.
30) 32 ib points in a levels
Answer: “32 ib points in a levels” means translating 32 IB into an A-Level picture—often around BBB in spirit, but subject minima matter.
31) 32 ib points in ucas
Answer: “32 ib points in ucas” mixes IB total with UCAS tariff. Use the UCAS calculator to translate your subject grades into tariff.
32) 33 ib points a level equivalent
Answer: 33 starts to touch A-Level BBB/AAB territory at some institutions, but HL subject requirements drive real offers.
33) 34 ib points a level equivalent
Answer: 34 is often competitive for AAB-ish courses at some universities; selective programmes may ask for 35–38 with HL minima.
34) 36 ib points a level equivalent
Answer: 36 is frequently seen near A-Level AAA equivalence in style (e.g., 6,6,6 at HL), though courses vary.
35) 36 ib points to a level
Answer: “36 ib points to a level” translation: think AAA-style expectations at many universities, with HL emphasis and subject specificity.
36) 37 ib points a level equivalent
Answer: 37 can align with strong AAA/A*AA expectations in some contexts, particularly for competitive subjects.
37) 38 ib points a level equivalent
Answer: 38 is competitive for many selective courses; some may express this as 6,6,6 HL or 7,6 HL patterns.
38) 39 ib points to a level
Answer: 39 typically maps to A*AA-style competitiveness in spirit, often with specific HL subject requirements.
39) 40 ib points a level equivalent
Answer: 40 is strong across the board—often beyond A*AA in selectivity. Expect HL 7/6 subject minima for top courses.
40) 40 points ib equivalent to a level
Answer: In spirit, “40 points ib equivalent to a level” suggests a profile meeting or exceeding A*AA-type expectations, subject to course-specific HL needs.
41) 41 ib points a level equivalent
Answer: 41 is highly competitive, similar to top A-Level outcomes with demanding HL criteria.
42) 42 ib points a level equivalent
Answer: 42 is elite territory and competitive for top-tier programmes globally.
43) 44 ib points a level equivalent
Answer: 44 is near-perfect and exceeds most A-Level offer expectations; you’ll still need required HL subjects.
44) a level ap
Answer: “a level ap” compares A-Level with AP (US). Both are advanced; universities publish separate requirements for each.
45) a level to ib
Answer: “a level to ib” translation is the reverse direction. Use offer-style logic: A-Level AAA → IB 36 with 6,6,6 HL (indicative). Confirm per course.
46) ap a level
Answer: “ap a level” is another AP↔A-Level comparison—universities set independent requirements and credit policies.
47) ap a level equivalent
Answer: “ap a level equivalent” varies by university. Some consider AP 5s roughly comparable to high A-Level achievement for credit/advanced standing.
48) ap and a level
Answer: Students sometimes mix “ap and a level” across schooling systems; universities will read them within each system’s context.
49) ap and ib classes meaning
Answer: AP and IB are both rigorous. AP is exam-centric by subject; IB is a full diploma with HL/SL + Core. Universities respect both.
50) ap ib a level
Answer: “ap ib a level” bundles all three. For admissions, universities publish separate requirement lines for AP, IB, and A-Level.
51) ap ib accelerated cambridge honors elective 100 level 200 level
Answer: This mash-up references programme “rigor labels” (AP/IB), Cambridge (IGCSE/A-Level), and “100/200 level” (US college course levels). Admissions teams parse each credential under its own rule set.
52) beza ib dan a level
Answer: “beza ib dan a level” (Malay/Indonesian: “difference between IB and A-Level”)—IB = broad diploma (HL/SL + Core); A-Level = deep subject specialization.
53) colleges that accept ib sl credit
Answer: “colleges that accept ib sl credit” vary. Many award credit/placement mainly for HL; some also for high SL scores. Check each university’s credit policy.
54) convert ib to ucas points
Answer: Use the UCAS calculator to “convert ib to ucas points.” If a course lists grade-based IB offers, those trump any tariff total.
55) gcse ib equivalent
Answer: “gcse ib equivalent” usually compares GCSE to earlier IB years (MYP). They’re different frameworks; schools sometimes publish internal comparisons for placement, not admissions.
56) ib 28 points a level equivalent
Answer: 28 is typically below competitive A-Level equivalents for selective courses; consider foundation/alternative entry routes where available.
57) ib 32 points a level equivalent
Answer: 32 can be competitive for some programmes (roughly BBB spirit), but verify per course and HL subject requirements.
58) ib 35 points a level equivalent
Answer: 35 sits near AAB/AAA in spirit at some universities; HL subject demands may apply.
59) ib 36 points a level equivalent
Answer: 36 is often akin to AAA-style competitiveness, commonly phrased as 6,6,6 at HL in IB terms.
60) ib 42 points a level equivalent
Answer: 42 is outstanding and typically exceeds most A-Level expectations; HL subject specifics still matter.
61) ib 43 points a level equivalent
Answer: 43 is near-perfect; expect HL minima regardless of the high total.
62) ib 6 equivalent a level
Answer: “ib 6 equivalent a level” depends on level: HL 6 is often treated like a strong A; SL 6 is below HL in depth. University/course context matters.
63) ib after o levels
Answer: Many students do IB after O-Levels (IGCSE). Placement into HL often depends on strong IGCSE grades in those subjects.
64) ib and a level equivalent
Answer: “ib and a level equivalent” is always programme- and course-specific. Use HL results for comparison and check official offers.
65) ib ap a level
Answer: If a school asks about “ib ap a level,” they want to know which advanced path you took. Present your strongest path clearly and supply the official grades.
66) ib btec
Answer: “ib btec” compares IB (academic) with BTEC (vocational). Some universities accept mixed profiles; check course pages.
67) ib compared to a levels
Answer: IB is broader (6 subjects + Core); A-Levels are narrower but deeper. Universities appreciate both for different strengths.
68) ib diploma a level equivalent
Answer: There’s no single “ib diploma a level equivalent.” Use HL grades and IB total to mirror typical A-Level offers (e.g., 36 with 6,6,6 HL resembling AAA spirit).
69) ib diploma english level
Answer: “ib diploma english level” could mean English A vs B, HL vs SL. Some courses require English A (HL/SL) or set minimum grades.
70) ib diploma std level
Answer: “ib diploma std level” = Standard Level (SL) subjects within the diploma. Offers may still require HL grades in key subjects.
71) ib diploma ucas points
Answer: “ib diploma ucas points” are the tariff values you can compute via UCAS. Not every university uses tariff; many set IB grade conditions.
72) ib english level
Answer: “ib english level” relates to English A (Literature/Language & Literature) vs B and HL/SL. Degree pages specify what they accept for language proficiency or subject requirements.
73) ib exam level
Answer: “ib exam level” refers to HL vs SL for each subject—critical for equivalence to deep study like A-Level.
74) ib gcse
Answer: “ib gcse” mixes two frameworks. GCSE is a UK qualification typically compared with IB MYP rather than the DP.
75) ib language levels
Answer: “ib language levels” include Language A (native/near-native), Language B (second-language), and ab initio (beginners), each at HL/SL.
76) ib level 4
Answer: “ib level 4” likely means an IB grade 4 in a subject—usually considered a pass, but not competitive for demanding degree subjects.
77) ib level 5
Answer: “ib level 5” is stronger than 4 and may meet minimums in some courses; competitive programmes often want 6/7 at HL in required subjects.
78) ib level classes
Answer: “ib level classes” are your HL and SL courses. For equivalence to A-Levels, your HL trio matters most.
79) ib level courses
Answer: Same idea: IB courses at HL/SL across six groups. Universities read the HL trio like an A-Level set.
80) ib level meaning
Answer: “ib level meaning” = the IB grading (1–7) and course levels (HL vs SL). For A-Level equivalence, HL 6/7 are the strongest signals.
81) ib math levels
Answer: “ib math levels” refers to Analysis & Approaches (AA) and Applications & Interpretation (AI), both offered at HL and SL.
82) ib maths higher
Answer: “ib maths higher” = Math HL (either AA HL or AI HL). Many maths-heavy degrees expect AA HL.
83) ib maths levels
Answer: Same as #81—two tracks (AA/AI) at two depths (HL/SL). Check the degree’s maths track requirement.
84) ib points a level equivalent
Answer: “ib points a level equivalent” is contextual. Rough guides: mid-30s IB often aligns with AAA-ish expectations; low 30s with AAB/BBB—but subject minima matter.
85) ib points equivalent to a levels
Answer: See above—translate your HL grades and IB total into an A-Level-style pattern (e.g., “36 with 6,6,6 HL”).
86) ib points to a level
Answer: Same translation idea: “ib points to a level” means shaping your IB result into an A-Level-like profile. Use offer-style phrasing.
87) ib points to ucas points
Answer: Use the UCAS tariff calculator for “ib points to ucas points.” Remember, tariff ≠ automatic offer fulfillment.
88) ib points to ucas points converter
Answer: That’s the UCAS tool or university-published tariff charts. Use them to estimate only.
89) ib points to ucas tariff
Answer: Same concept—“ucas tariff” is the points system. Convert with UCAS, then check whether your target course actually uses tariff.
90) ib score a level equivalent
Answer: “ib score a level equivalent” is best read as a pattern, not a single number: e.g., IB 36 with 6,6,6 HL ≈ A-Level AAA in spirit (course-dependent).
91) ib score equivalent to a level
Answer: Same as above: universities publish IB offer patterns rather than a single “score equals grade” chart.
92) ib score for medicine
Answer: Medicine is highly competitive. Many programmes expect 38–40+ with HL Biology/Chemistry (and sometimes HL Maths), each with specific minima. Always check the exact medical school requirements.
93) ib score to ucas points
Answer: Use the UCAS calculator. If your course requires grades rather than tariff totals, focus on meeting those grades first.
94) ib standard maths
Answer: “ib standard maths” is SL Maths (AA or AI). Some degrees accept SL; others require HL Maths, especially for STEM.
95) ib to a level equivalent
Answer: The safest phrasing is an IB offer-style pattern mirroring the A-Level one (e.g., AAA ↔ “36 with 6,6,6 at HL,” indicative only).
96) ib to ucas points converter
Answer: That’s the UCAS tariff converter. Use it for estimates; confirm how your specific course sets offers.
97) ib ucas points calculator
Answer: The official UCAS calculator helps compute tariff from IB components; some universities also publish their own summaries.
98) ib ucas tariff points
Answer: These are the tariff points your IB profile earns. For admissions, grade conditions (e.g., HL 6s) can outweigh a tariff total.
99) ibo certificate in higher level
Answer: “ibo certificate in higher level” can refer to course certificates (single-subject IB results) or educator credentials; admissions focus on IBDP results for student entry.
100) international baccalaureate gcse
Answer: “international baccalaureate gcse” conflates frameworks. GCSE ≈ UK Y11; IB has PYP/MYP before DP. Universities assess DP for entry; GCSE/IGCSE may matter for prerequisites.