Diploma Programme curriculum—core requirements
Extended essay
The extended essay is an independent, self-directed piece of research, culminating in a 4,000-word paper. As a required component, it provides:
- practical preparation for the kinds of undergraduate research required at tertiary level
- an opportunity for students to engage in an in-depth study of a topic of interest within a chosen subject.
Emphasis is placed on the research process:
- formulating an appropriate research question
- engaging in a personal exploration of the topic
- communicating ideas
- developing an argument.
Participation in this process develops the capacity to:
- analyse
- synthesize, and
- evaluate knowledge.
Students are supported throughout the process with advice and guidance from a supervisor (usually a teacher at the school).
Find out more
Order the IB publication: Extended essay guide.
"IB prepares you to become competitive in this challenging world."
Umidjon, student at University of Alberta
