IB ACIO Marking Scheme: What You Need to Know to Score Better

If you’re gearing up for the IB ACIO exam, the first thing to sort out is the marking scheme. Knowing how points are awarded helps you focus on the right parts of the paper and avoid wasting time on low‑weight questions.

The exam is split into two main sections: the written test and the interview. The written test carries 100 marks and includes General Knowledge, Reasoning, General English, and Theory of Management. Each section is weighted differently, so a strong performance in high‑value parts can lift your total score quickly.

Breakdown of the Written Test

Here's a quick look at the mark distribution:

• General Knowledge (GK): 30 marks – covers current affairs, Indian polity, geography, and basic science.
• Reasoning (Logical): 20 marks – tests analytical ability with puzzles, series, and data interpretation.
• General English (GE): 20 marks – includes grammar, comprehension, and précis writing.
• Theory of Management (TM): 30 marks – focuses on organizational behavior, leadership, and public administration concepts.

Every question has a clear right or wrong answer, and there’s no negative marking, so guess if you’re stuck. However, the key is to answer the higher‑weight questions first. For example, GK and TM together make up 60% of the written total, so mastering those topics gives you a big advantage.

Interview Scoring and How to Prepare

The interview round accounts for another 25 marks. It evaluates your personality, communication skills, and suitability for the ACIO role. Marks are split across three areas:

• Presentation and Body Language – 10 marks
• Knowledge of Current Events and General Awareness – 10 marks
• Analytical Thinking and Decision‑Making – 5 marks

To score well, practice mock interviews with a friend or mentor. Focus on speaking clearly, staying calm, and backing up your answers with facts. Remember, interviewers reward confidence, not just knowledge.

Now that you know where the marks are, here are three practical tips to boost your total:

1. Prioritize high‑weight topics: Spend extra time on GK and TM. Use daily news apps, government reports, and standard textbooks to stay updated.
2. Do timed practice tests: Simulate the real exam environment. This trains you to allocate time wisely and spot easy marks early.
3. Polish interview skills: Record yourself answering typical ACIO interview questions. Review body language and eliminate filler words.

Finally, keep an eye on the official notification for any updates to the marking pattern. The IB ACIO exam occasionally tweaks question formats, and staying current can save you from surprise penalties.

With a clear grasp of the scoring system and a focused study plan, you’re set to turn your preparation into a solid score. Good luck, and remember: smart work beats hard work every time.