IJMB Grading System Explained: How Points Are Calculated
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    IJMB Grading System Explained: How Points Are Calculated

    Academic Affairs April 1, 2026 6 min read

    How IJMB Results Are Graded

    The IJMB programme uses a points-based grading system, similar to the British A-Level system. Your performance in each of your three subjects is graded from A to F, and each grade carries a specific number of points. Your total points out of 15 determine your eligibility for Direct Entry admission.

    IJMB Grade Points Table

    Grade Points Performance
    A5 pointsDistinction / Excellent
    B4 pointsVery Good
    C3 pointsGood / Credit
    D2 pointsSatisfactory / Pass
    E1 pointMarginal Pass
    F0 pointsFail

    Maximum Possible Score

    Since you sit 3 subjects and the highest grade in each is A (5 points), the maximum total is 15 points (A+A+A = 5+5+5). This is also referred to as achieving "triple A" and is extremely competitive.

    How to Calculate Your IJMB Points

    Simply add the points for your three subject grades:

    • A in Biology + B in Chemistry + C in Physics = 5 + 4 + 3 = 12 points
    • B in Mathematics + B in Physics + A in Chemistry = 4 + 4 + 5 = 13 points
    • C in Government + D in Economics + B in Literature = 3 + 2 + 4 = 9 points

    Minimum Points Required by Course & University

    Course Category Typical Minimum Recommended Score
    Medicine, Law, Pharmacy12–13 points14–15 points
    Engineering, Architecture10–12 points12–13 points
    Sciences (Biochem, Micro)9–10 points11–12 points
    Social Sciences, Arts8–9 points10–11 points
    Education, Agriculture6–8 points9–10 points

    Note: These are general guidelines. Each university sets its own cut-off. Always check your target university's requirements.

    What Happens if You Score Below the Minimum?

    If your total points are below the minimum required for your chosen course, you have two options:

    1. Re-sit the IJMB examination in the next session to improve your score
    2. Apply for a less competitive course that your current score qualifies you for

    Your IJMB result is permanent — it never expires. You can use a past result for Direct Entry at any time in the future.

    Tips for Maximising Your IJMB Points

    • Attend all lectures — the IJMB syllabus directly maps to the exam
    • Study past questions thoroughly; ABU tends to repeat question patterns
    • Focus on your strongest subject first to secure maximum points there
    • Aim for at least B in every subject to hit 12 points minimum
    • Never attempt to guess in MCQ sections — negative marking may apply

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