How Is The IB Extended Essay Graded?

If you're an IB (International Baccalaureate) student wondering how the IB Extended Essay is graded, here’s some clear guidance to help you. 

The EE grading system is actually quite straightforward once you understand the basics. Let's break down everything you need to know about how your Extended Essay gets its final grade.

Overview of IB Extended Essay Grading

The Extended Essay is one part of the IB Diploma Programme. It works alongside the Theory of Knowledge (TOK) and Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS).

Your IB Extended Essay is marked out of 34 points (opens in a new tab) and receives a grade from A to E:

• Grade bands: A (excellent) to E (elementary)

• Bonus points: Your EE grade combines with your TOK grade to earn up to 3 additional points towards your overall IB Diploma score

Key Takeaways

• The Extended Essay is assessed using five clear criteria (A through E) worth different amounts of marks

• Critical thinking (Criterion C) carries the most weight at 12 marks, so focus your energy here

• Your grade boundaries range from A down to E

• It's worth up to 3 points towards your final IB score when combined with Theory of Knowledge (TOK)

IB Extended Essay Assessment Criteria (A–E)

Let's see what your examiners are looking for in each criterion. Understanding these is like having the marking scheme right in front of you.

Criterion A – Focus and Method (6 marks)

What examiners look for: 

• A clear, focused research question that isn't too broad or too narrow

• Appropriate research methods for your chosen subject

• A well-defined scope that's manageable within 4,000 words

Expert tip: Your research question is crucial. Instead of asking "How does music affect people?", try something specific like "How does listening to classical music during study sessions affect memory retention in 16-18 year olds?" See the difference? The second question is focused, measurable, and perfectly sized for an Extended Essay.

Criterion B – Knowledge and Understanding (6 marks)

What examiners look for:

• Strong subject-specific knowledge that goes beyond basic classroom learning

• Correct use of terminology and concepts from your chosen subject

• Understanding of the broader context and relevant background information

Expert tip: Use academic sources and link your work back to what you've learned. This shows examiners that you’ve researched and understood what you’ve written.

Criterion C – Critical Thinking (12 marks)

Why this matters most: This criterion carries the heaviest weighting because it's where you show your analytical skills. Examiners want to see you thinking like an academic. 

What examiners look for:

• Analysis and interpretation rather than just description

• Strong arguments supported by evidence

• Evaluation of sources and different perspectives

• Drawing meaningful conclusions from your research

Expert tip: Avoid the description trap! Instead of writing "The survey showed that 60% of students preferred method A", write "The significant preference for method A (60% of respondents) suggests that students value practical applications over theoretical approaches, which aligns with educational research on adolescent learning preferences."

Criterion D – Presentation (4 marks)

What examiners look for:

• Proper formatting according to IB guidelines

• Clear structure with logical flow

• Consistent and accurate referencing

• Adherence to the 4,000-word limit

Expert tip: This could be the easiest way to secure marks. Follow the IB formatting guide, use a consistent referencing style throughout, and double-check your word count. 

Criterion E – Engagement (6 marks)

How it's assessed: This criterion is unique because it's marked using your Reflections on Planning and Progress Form (RPPF), not your actual essay.

What examiners look for:

• Evidence of your intellectual journey throughout the process

• Honest reflection on challenges and how you overcame them

• Self-awareness about your learning and development

• Genuine engagement with your topic

Expert tip: Don't treat your RPPF like a boring summary of what you did. Instead, write about your "lightbulb moments", any problems that made you think differently, and how your understanding evolved. Examiners love to see reflective learning!

IB Extended Essay Grade Boundaries

Grade boundaries change each year, so it’s important you use these 2025 grade boundaries as guidance only:

What this means for you:

• Aim for at least 21 marks to secure a B grade

• 27+ marks puts you in the excellent category

• Remember, even a C grade contributes positively when combined with TOK

How the Extended Essay and TOK Work Together

Remember that your EE and TOK grades combine to award bonus points using this matrix:

Even if you get a C in both EE and TOK, you still earn 1 bonus point. But aim higher – those 2-3 bonus points could make all the difference in your diploma grade!

Tips to Maximise Your EE Grade

• Choose a topic you genuinely care about 

  • You'll spend months working on this, so pick something that actually interests you

  • Passionate engagement shows through in your writing and makes the whole process more enjoyable

• Refine your research question early

  • Spend serious time crafting your research question

  • A focused question leads to focused research, which leads to better marks across multiple criteria

• Use academic sources and cite references properly

  • Use journal articles, books, and reputable online sources (not Wikipedia)

  • Learn your referencing style inside and out – these are easy marks to secure

• Practise critical analysis instead of description 

  • Always ask "why?" after presenting information

  • Consider what you’re trying to prove and how your points connect to your argument

  • This analytical thinking is what separates great EEs from good ones

• Keep detailed records for your RPPF

  • Don't leave reflection until the end

  • Keep notes as you go

  • Think about your challenges, breakthroughs, and learning moments

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is a Passing Grade for the IB Extended Essay?

Technically, you need to submit an Extended Essay to receive your IB Diploma, but there's no specific "passing" grade for the EE alone. However, getting an E grade in both EE and TOK will prevent you from receiving your diploma. Aim for at least a D grade to be safe, but really push for C or above to contribute positively to your overall score.

What's the Most Important Criterion for Scoring Well?

Criterion C (Critical Thinking) is worth 12 marks out of 34. Focus on developing strong analytical skills and building compelling arguments. Don’t disregard the others, though. Criterion D (Presentation) offers relatively easy marks if you follow formatting guidelines carefully.

Do Word Count Penalties Affect EE Grading?

Yes, if your essay exceeds 4,000 words, examiners will only read and assess the first 4,000 words. This means your conclusion and final arguments might be ignored, which will seriously impact your grade. Always stay within the limit – it's better to have a tight, focused essay than one that gets cut off mid-argument.

Remember, the Extended Essay is your chance to dive deep into something you're passionate about while developing university-level research skills. Have a look at our Save My Exams IB revision notes for more help.