Interview with Top Scorers: How I Got a 45 in IB and Straight As at A-Level – Real Tips from Real Students
“It wasn’t about being the smartest in the room. It was about being the most consistent, curious, and focused.” – Leila, IB 45 scorer
🎯 Introduction: The Dream Score That Changed Everything
You’ve probably Googled it a hundred times: “How to get 45 in IB” or “How to get straight As in A-Level”. And let’s be real — it’s not just about bragging rights. That perfect score opens doors. Scholarships, Oxbridge or Ivy League acceptances, internships, and ultimately, the kind of confidence that propels you forward in life.
But what does it really take to reach the top?
We sat down with top-scoring students from IB and A-Level programs in the UK, UAE, and Singapore — students who not only aced their exams but managed to keep their sanity, social lives, and sense of humor. Here’s the human side of high achievement.
🧠 The Mindset Shift: Why Most Students Miss the Mark
Before we dive into tips and hacks, let’s talk mindset. Every top scorer we spoke to echoed one truth:
“Your mindset matters more than your memory.”
What Separates a 40 from a 45 in IB?
Proactivity over Perfection: IB 45 scorers don’t wait to be told what to revise — they plan months ahead.
Growth mindset: They treat mistakes as data, not failure.
Emotional regulation: Meditation, therapy, or even journaling helps them stay mentally balanced.
What A-Level Top Scorers Say About Pressure
Pacing beats cramming: They study like marathoners, not sprinters.
Know your curriculum: Familiarity with the exam board’s expectations (AQA, Edexcel, etc.) is non-negotiable.
No ego, just strategy: Straight-A students often collaborate, even with rivals.
📚 Study Habits That Actually Work (Backed by Students Who’ve Done It)
Daily Routine of an IB 45 Scorer
Leila, IB Top Scorer from Dubai American Academy:
“Here’s what my day looked like during DP2:
6:00 AM – Wake, 10-min meditation
6:30–7:30 AM – Review flashcards (Anki)
8:00–3:30 PM – School
4:00–6:00 PM – Subject-specific revision blocks
6:30–7:30 PM – Workout or walk
8:00–9:00 PM – TOK essay / IA drafting
9:30 PM – Lights out”
Tools and Techniques That Mattered
Past papers + Mark schemes: Gold standard for exam prep.
Active recall apps: Anki, Quizlet.
The Pomodoro Technique: 25-minute focus blocks.
Studygram inspiration: Follow creators like @IBLikeABoss, @StudyQuill.
The One Thing They’d Do Differently
“I waited too long to revise Paper 3 in Biology. Never again.” – Aisha, 44 IB scorer
“I underestimated how hard it would be to juggle coursework with revision. Start earlier than you think!” – James, A-Level A* student in Physics, Math, Chem
✍️ Internal Assessments, EE & Coursework – The Quiet GPA Killers
The exams get all the spotlight, but coursework makes or breaks your top score.
Tips for Nailing IAs and the Extended Essay
Choose topics you’re genuinely interested in — it shows in your writing
Keep a research log — IB examiners love transparency
Draft early, feedback often — don’t wait for perfection before showing your supervisor
For A-Levels: NEA and Practical Assessments
Follow the rubric religiously
Highlight analysis over description
Seek teacher feedback early — and use it
🧘♀️ Mental Health & Burnout: The Invisible Battle
It’s not glamorous, but it’s real.
“I broke down two weeks before finals. My biggest regret? Not asking for help sooner.”
Mental Wellness Tips From Top Scorers
Therapy is not a weakness – Many students saw school counselors weekly
Apps that help: Headspace, Calm, Reflectly
Sleep like it’s your job: 7–8 hours isn’t optional if you want to function
✨ Secrets They Don’t Tell You (But Should)
IB-Specific Hacks
Use the Subject Reports: These IB-published documents tell you what students did wrong in past years
Don’t underestimate CAS – Use it to unwind, not just check boxes
Group study: But only with focused friends
A-Level Insights
Past paper timing practice is everything
Teach to learn: Explain concepts to your pet, sibling, or mirror
Use mark schemes like a rubric for life
🔗 Recommended Resources
Khan Academy, The Student Room, Save My Exams
🏁 Conclusion: Can You Do It Too?
Absolutely. You don’t need to be a genius. You need grit, guidance, and a game plan.
The students who score 45 in IB or sweep A* grades in A-Level aren’t mythical beings. They’re just like you — but with systems, support, and serious self-awareness.
“Don’t chase perfection. Chase progress — every day.”
So here’s your CTA: Bookmark this. Share it with a friend. Create a calendar. And start with one small win today — because those tiny wins build your 45.
❓ People Also Ask (FAQs):
Q1. How hard is it to get 45 in IB?
A: Only about 1% of students worldwide score a 45. It’s challenging, but doable with the right plan and mindset.
Q2. What’s the best way to study for A-Level exams?
A: Focus on past papers, active recall, and knowing the syllabus inside-out. Balance study with mental wellness.
Q3. When should I start revising for IB or A-Levels?
A: Ideally, 6–8 months before exams. But even a smart 3-month plan with consistency can lead to top scores.
Q4. Do I need a private tutor to get top grades?
A: Not necessarily. Many top scorers relied on self-study, school resources, and online platforms like HeLovesMath.com.
Stay curious. Stay kind. And believe in your score. 🧠💪
