How hard is it to get a 7 in your IB Physics Course?

If you’re an IB student, you know that you must study at least one of the Science subjects to obtain your diploma. One of the major subjects under the Science umbrella is IB Physics. However, many are reluctant to take IB Physics Course because of its notorious level of difficulty. In fact, it is third in popularity among the Sciences, behind Biology and Chemistry.

As a team of experienced tutors, we often help students who struggle with the subject, particularly those who didn’t love Physics in the first place. Therefore, we can confirm – it won’t be a walk in the park (but we, TutorsPlus, can give you a shoulder to lean on).

So, by all accounts Physics is hard… but HOW hard is it? And is it really a challenge to get a 7 in IB Physics?

We have talked to our top IB Physics tutors and IB examiners and here is what they have to say about the subject. Also, they will provide their tips to succeed in the course.

Is IB Physics Really That Hard?

When we are asked how difficult this or that subject is, we say that it all depends on the perspective.

One way to answer this question is to consider the number of students who received the highest grade in their exams. According to the IBO statistical bulletin, 19,6% of HL Physics students obtained a 7 on their exam in the May 2024 session. The figure was even more impressive in the previous session – 27,6%. No other Science subject can boast such statistics!

The mean grade in Physics is also relatively high – 4.9 – it is the highest among all Sciences and exactly the same as the IBDP average.

So, does it mean that getting a 7 in IB Physics is a breeze? Unfortunately, no.

The truth is, these high scores are due to the fact that many schools do a good job of advising students not to take the subject. In particular, they select candidates they feel can last the whole course and not sink during the first year of the IB. For those students who have no strong interest in Physics or struggled with it in middle school, they recommend taking a different route.

The bottom line, it is indeed possible to get a good grade, and even the top one, in IB Physics. However, you will have to put your nose to the grindstone to do so.

Overview of the IB Physics Syllabus

The course of IB Physics spans 110 teaching hours at SL and 180 at SL. Additionally, 40 and 60 hours at SL and HL respectively are given to the experimental programme, i.e. lab work, collaborative sciences projects, and scientific investigation.

As always, the course has a greater breadth and depth of knowledge at the more advanced level. This means that besides a deeper dive into physical concepts, HL students will also get to know many topics exclusive to their level.

Overall, the IB Physics syllabus covers the following content:

• A. Space, time, and motion

• • • A.1 Kinematics
    • A.2 Forces and momentum
    • A.3 Work, energy and power
    • A.4 Rigid body mechanics *
    • A.5 Galilean and special relativity *

• B. The particulate nature of matter

• • • B.1 Thermal energy transfers
    • B.2 Greenhouse effect
    • B.3 Gas laws
    • B.4 Thermodynamics *
    • B.5 Current and circuits

• C. Wave behaviour

• • • C.1 Simple harmonic motion
    • C.2 Wave model
    • C.3 Wave phenomena
    • C.4 Standing waves and resonance
    • C.5 Doppler effect

• D. Fields

• • • D.1 Gravitational fields
    • D.2 Electric and magnetic fields
    • D.3 Motion in electromagnetic fields
    • D.4 Induction *

• E. Nuclear and quantum physics

• • E.1 Structure of the atom
  • E.2 Quantum physics*
  • E.3 Radioactive decay
  • E.4 Fission •
  • E.5 Fusion and stars

(* only available at the HL).

At the end of the second year in the IBDP, students sit their exam consisting of two papers. Besides, they need to submit a scientific investigation report otherwise known as the Internal Assessment.

Challenges in Achieving a 7 in IB Physics

So, IB Physics is, in fact, hard. But what specific challenges stand between you and your desired grade?

First of all, IB Physics requires advanced problem-solving skills. Before you can even begin to understand physical concepts, you must develop a solid understanding of how Maths works and how to solve problems. Problem-solving isn’t just an additional skill—it’s the very foundation of success in this course.

One more reason why IB Physics is so hard is its content. There is a lot to learn: the course is formula-rich and some (luckily, not all of them) concepts might feel overwhelming. Still, when we ask students which topics they find the most terrifying, they often name Mechanics. Indeed, it is perhaps the most mathematically intense part of the syllabus, and it’s the first chapter of the course!

This isn’t just coincidental—Mechanics is intentionally placed early to test students’ analytical capabilities. It’s also among the most heavily weighted topics in the final examination. It sets the tone for the entire course, and your understanding of its concepts can really make or break your final score.

Unlike other subjects, where memorising definitions and formulae can secure a decent grade, IB Physics demands more than this. In particular, you need to develop deep conceptual understanding, critical analytical thinking, the ability to connect complex ideas across different areas, and the above-mentioned mathematical application. In other words, success in IB Physics isn’t about what you know—it’s about how you think and how you approach problems.

Last but not least, we couldn’t help but mention past papers. They are an excellent way to put your conceptual understanding to the test. The irony, however, is that when you finally accumulate enough knowledge to understand these papers, you’ll have limited time to practice them extensively.

Tips to Score a 7 in IB Physics

Does it mean that past papers are useless when you get ready for your exam? Not at all. They are still your best chance to get to know the exam format and question types. Throughout your second year in the IBDP, you need to practice with them regularly.

However, you should be selective as there will be questions concerning material covered at the later stages of the course. You can skip those for the time being and concentrate instead on the things you’ve already learned.

And here are some other tips that can help you score a 7 in IB Physics.

Tip 1 – Listen to Your School Counsellor

First and foremost, you need to consider if it is worth adding Physics to your IBDP subject list at all. Take it only if you feel confident you will do well.

Your counsellor and teachers know the demands of the course. Based on your achievements in MYP or IGCSE, they can predict your ability to learn at the speed needed to get top points. So, it is a good idea to take their advice on board.

You need to choose the level carefully as well – it should challenge you intellectually but shouldn’t be too overwhelming. If you decided to go with HL but the first weeks in the Physics class turned out to be a struggle, you can talk to your counsellor about transferring to SL. And vice versa, it is possible to upgrade from SL to HL, but you have a very limited time window to make such a decision. Otherwise, it will be a tall order to catch up.

Tip 2 – Take Your IB Physics Course Seriously From Day One

To have a chance at getting maximum points in a tough subject like Physics, you will need to engage and work your hardest from the very start.

This means taking responsibility for your own learning. If you can’t wrap your head around something right away, don’t shy away from seeking help. You can’t just ignore difficult-to-understand concepts. Instead, you should ask your teacher, a friend, an IB Physics tutor, or try to figure it out on your own. Many topics in Physics are interconnected, so if you fail to grasp something now, you are likely to struggle even more later.

Getting on top of all the course content as you go is also important for your study schedule. The IB2 year largely focuses on revision and exam practice. If you are still trying to understand the content from year 1 in your final year, the chances of getting top points dramatically decrease.

Make sure you always have the syllabus at hand. As you move through topics, check your understanding of the current and previous material. This should give you the confidence that an unclear topic is not going to come up in the exam.

Tip 3 – Review Your Work Step by Step Throughout the Course

Each week, allocate some time to review your IB Physics course material to solidify your understanding. But don’t just passively read through your notes. The best strategy is to actively engage with the content. This can take the form of solving problems, creating summary sheets, as well as identifying areas that require more clarification.

When you complete the entire topic, it is a good idea to conduct a comprehensive review. It is your chance to go over the key concepts, mathematical relationships, and practical applications once again. Such repeated exposure does more than just help you memorise. It can show the connections between different areas of Physics.

If you stick to this plan, you will have a chance to review all content several times by the end of the whole course and, possibly, bridge all the gaps in your knowledge.

Tip 4 – Look for Extra Help When You Get Stuck

Is there anything unclear? Just ask for help – your teacher is there for you. Many students shy away from asking questions because they don’t want to seem bothersome. This can lead to issues building up. In reality, however, teachers appreciate engaged students who truly want to learn and grow.

If you still feel you need some extra help, find a study buddy to learn with you. Alternatively, you can ask a Physics tutor for help here –  many of our tutors are experienced IB examiners. Online forums are also a good way to work with other students on the tougher parts of the course.

The most important is that you address roadblocks once you hit them. If you do otherwise, it will come back to bite you in year two. And then, you will simply have no time left to get it right.

Tip 5 – Get the Best Mark Possible for Your IB Physics IA

With Internal Assessment responsible for 20% of your final grade, it is essential to try and get the best possible mark. Basically, it will involve starting early, keeping up with the deadlines set by your teacher, and making the most of their feedback.

Since Physics AI is not only about showcasing your practical skills but also creativity, a good IB Physics topic can significantly impact the quality of your research. Perhaps it is one where you already have good preliminary data or can conduct your own experiment. Make sure you have the equipment and resources available before committing to your investigation. Finally, don’t forget to check this with your Physics teacher to confirm the feasibility and appropriateness of your chosen topic.

Want to know more tips on how to get the top mark in your IA? Here our IB Physics tutors and teachers share the best strategies and insights to help you excel.

Better Results with TutorsPlus

While the IB Physics course is undoubtedly challenging, it may also be incredibly rewarding for your future educational and career perspectives.

IB Physics demands dedication, critical thinking, and strong mathematical skills. However, with consistent effort and effective study strategies, you can achieve your goal of a 7.

If you need additional support, our team of experienced IB Physics tutors is here for you. They can carefully guide you through challenging concepts, assist with problem-solving, and accompany you in preparation for your exam. Our first-class tutors, who are also IB Physics teachers and examiners, are at your service at 022 731 8148 and info@tutorsplus.com.

FAQ Section

Can I Get a 7 if I Struggle with Maths?

It’s possible to grasp some fundamental physics concepts without a strong math background. However, if you want to truly master the subject, a solid understanding of calculus and trigonometry is a must. Therefore, Maths is essential for solving complex physics problems and understanding advanced concepts. So, if your Maths is weak, we don’t recommend considering taking Physics.

If you still wish to learn Physics without very strong Maths skills, SL would be a better choice, and it is possible to still do well at the course.

How Important is the IA for Achieving a 7?

The Physics Internal Assessment contributes 20% to your overall IB Physics score. While this percentage might seem relatively small, it can often be the decisive factor between grade boundaries, especially when you’re aiming for a top mark of 7. Therefore, it is important that you submit an IA that meets the high standards of the IBDP.

What Percentage of Students Usually Get a 7 in IB Physics?

In 2024 (May session), 19.6% of HL and 10.5% of SL students received a 7 in Physics. The previous session was even more impressive, with 27.6% and 11.1% of candidates ending up with the highest grade.

But don’t let these numbers fool you. It is not at all easy to get a 7 in the subject. These high percentages of top-scorers are the result of their hard work and dedication rather than an easy exam.

How Can I Improve My Grades if I’m Currently Scoring Below a 7?

We have an excellent post explaining the best strategies to get a 7 in IB Physics. In short, you can do the following to boost your performance:

• Identify your areas of weakness (such as conceptual misunderstandings or mathematical challenges) and try to minimise them;
• Develop a study plan and stick to it throughout your high-school journey;
• Combine passive (reading) and active study techniques (solving problems, visual representations, applications in the real world, etc.);
• Use a variety of resources (textbooks, online tutorials, video explanations, practice exams, etc.);
• Improve your Maths skills since both disciplines are interconnected;
• Seek help from your teacher, peers, online forums, or a Physics tutor.

By Sara Lloyd

Sara has been an education consultant for TutorsPlus for 15 years, and is an expert on international IB education.  She is also a parent of two lively children.

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