Students investigate a topic of special interest to them related to one of the six subjects studied or in World Studies. This provides practical preparation for university academic writing.

The Extended Essay is:

• compulsory for all Diploma Programme students,

• externally assessed and, in combination with the grade for TOK, contributes up to three points to the total score for the IB diploma,

• an independent research/investigation on a topic chosen by the student in cooperation with a supervisor in the school,

• presented as a formal piece of academic writing containing no more than 4,000 words,

• the result of approximately 40 hours of work by the student,

• concluded with a short interview, or Viva Voce, with the supervising teacher (recommended).

In the Diploma Programme, the extended essay is the prime example of a piece of work where the student has the opportunity to show knowledge, understanding and enthusiasm about a topic of his or her choice.