The IB Diploma is one of the most demanding school qualifications in the world, and one of the most respected by universities. Unlike exam-only systems, around a fifth to a third of each subject grade comes from coursework, and students must also complete an Extended Essay, Theory of Knowledge and CAS. Many strong students struggle not with the content but with managing it all at once.
GoStudy.ae is based in Masdar City, Abu Dhabi, and supports IB students across the emirate with live 1-to-1 online tutoring for the PYP, MYP and Diploma Programme. This guide explains how the IB Diploma is scored, where students lose points, and how the right tutor helps. Message us on WhatsApp to be matched with an IB specialist, usually within 24 to 48 hours.
How the IB Diploma is scored
- Six subjects, one from each subject group, usually three at Higher Level (HL) and three at Standard Level (SL). Each is graded 1 to 7, so up to 42 points.
- The core: Theory of Knowledge (TOK) and the Extended Essay (EE) are each graded A to E and combined into up to 3 bonus points.
- Maximum score: 45 points. The Diploma normally requires at least 24, plus other conditions.
- CAS (Creativity, Activity, Service) earns no points but must be completed.
- Failing conditions: an E in TOK or the EE, a grade 1 in any subject, or not completing CAS can block the Diploma, whatever the total.
Why IB students in Abu Dhabi look for a tutor
- Internal Assessments (IAs) pile up. Every subject has one, and deadlines cluster in DP year 1 and early DP year 2.
- HL Maths and sciences are a big step up from MYP or IGCSE, especially Maths Analysis and Approaches HL.
- The Extended Essay is a 4,000-word independent research paper. Choosing a focused research question is where most students go wrong.
- TOK asks for a style of thinking many students have never practised.
- Exam technique: IB markbands reward specific skills, such as evaluation and use of evidence, that students must learn to show on paper.
IB Diploma support we offer
- HL and SL subjects: Mathematics (Analysis and Approaches; Applications and Interpretation), Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Economics, Business Management and English
- IA guidance: research questions, structure, data analysis and the assessment criteria
- Extended Essay: topic selection, research planning and feedback on drafts
- TOK: essay and exhibition preparation
- Exams: past papers, markbands and timed practice before mocks and final exams
Your child writes their own IAs and Extended Essay. Our tutors guide, explain and give feedback in line with the IB's academic-integrity rules.
A DP timeline: when tutoring helps most
- Before DP year 1: bridge gaps in Maths and sciences from MYP or IGCSE.
- DP year 1, first term: set up good habits; start thinking about EE topics.
- DP year 1, second half: IA planning and the first EE drafts.
- DP year 2, first term: finish IAs and the EE; TOK essay.
- DP year 2, before mocks and finals: targeted revision, past papers and timing.
MYP and PYP tutoring
For younger IB students, tutors build the inquiry, writing and maths skills that the Diploma later depends on. MYP students get help with criterion-based assessments, the Personal Project and core subjects.
Why Abu Dhabi families choose GoStudy.ae
- Local company, UK-qualified tutors, screened with qualification checks, background checks and a teaching demonstration
- Every lesson recorded, so IA and exam explanations can be rewatched any time
- Parent dashboard with attendance, topics covered and progress after every session
- No driving across the city: lessons at home from Saadiyat Island, Al Reem, Khalifa City, Yas Island or Al Ain
- Interactive whiteboard for worked maths and science problems
IB tutoring prices
- Year 7 to 8 (MYP): 350 AED per hour
- Year 9 (MYP): 400 AED per hour
- Year 10 (MYP): 450 AED per hour
- Year 12 (DP year 1): 500 AED per hour
- Year 13 (DP year 2): 550 AED per hour
Block bookings save 5% per session on 5 lessons and 15% on 10 lessons. Full details are on our pricing page.
Frequently asked questions
How many points do you need to pass the IB Diploma?
The Diploma normally requires at least 24 points out of 45, and no failing conditions such as an E in TOK or the Extended Essay.
Do you have tutors for IB Maths AA and AI at HL?
Yes. We match tutors to the exact course and level, including HL Analysis and Approaches and HL Applications and Interpretation.
Can a tutor help with the Extended Essay and IAs?
Yes, with guidance and feedback. The work stays the student's own, as the IB requires.
Do you offer in-person IB tutoring in Abu Dhabi?
Our lessons are online, live and 1-to-1, so students anywhere in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain can learn with the right specialist without travel.
How quickly can lessons start?
Most families start within 24 to 48 hours of registering.
Book an IB tutor in Abu Dhabi
Share your child's IB subjects, levels and deadlines and we will match the right tutor.
Chat with us on WhatsApp · Register in 2 minutes · Call +971 58 534 1673
Related reading: IB tutoring in the UAE: everything parents need to know · IGCSE and GCSE tutor in Dubai · A-Level tutors in the UAE
Sources: IB Diploma scoring and passing conditions summarised from the IB's published criteria, as explained by RevisionDojo. Always check your school's IB coordinator for current rules. Written by the GoStudy.ae academic team.
