The purpose of the extended essay, according to International Baccalaureate regulations, is to provide students with the opportunity to engage in independent research and develop writing skills through a systematic process. Research has shown that research and writing skills are a critical component of students’ success at university.

The extended essay is compulsory for all students studying in the Diploma Programme:

• A grade of D or above is required for a student to receive the Diploma.
• The Extended Essay is part of the external assessment and, when combined with the TOK grade, adds up to three points to the overall grade for the IB Diploma.
• The extended essay helps prepare students for success at university and beyond the Diploma Programme.
• When choosing the topic for the extended essay, students should check the list of available Diploma Programme subjects.
• The extended essay is an independent research project on a topic chosen by the student in consultation with the essay leader.
• No more than 4,000 words are followed by a form of reflection of no more than 500 words. It is the result of approximately 40 hours of student work.
• Students are supported by supervisory meetings, totalling 3-5 hours, which include three compulsory reflections.
• The third and last compulsory reflection session is the viva voce, which is the final interview with the supervising teacher.