Can you fail IB Extended Essay?

The Extended Essay is a mandatory part of the IB, and many students wonder whether it's possible to fail and what the consequences would be. In this post, we'll address these questions and clear up any doubts.

Can you fail IB Extended Essay?

In short, yes, it is possible to fail the Extended Essay. Receiving a grade E, which ranges from 0 to 7 out of 34 marks, results in a failure. 

Failing the Extended Essay results in an automatic failure of the IB Diploma Programme. It is therefore absolutely crucial you do well in the EE and therefore we have compiled a list of tips that will ensure you not only pass but excel in your EE:

• Choose a topic that interests you – you will be spending a considerable amount of time on the EE and hence it is best that you choose a topic that you genuinely enjoy. 
   
• Do not rush – Think through all your arguments to create a well-structured paper.
   
• Formulate a clear research question – A well-defined research question will give your essay direction and make it easier to structure your arguments effectively.
   
• Follow the EE criteria carefully – The IB has strict guidelines for structure, word count, and citations. Be sure to follow them carefully to avoid losing marks unnecessarily. 
   
• Write multiple drafts and revise – A well-structured and polished EE takes time; edit for clarity, coherence, and argument strength.
   
• Use reliable and varied sources – A strong EE is backed by credible academic sources, so ensure you use books, journal articles, and reputable websites. 
   
• Look at exemplars – Reviewing high-scoring Extended Essays will give you a clear understanding of what is required by the IB. For that, check out our plethora of EE sample essays.
   
• Seek feedback – If you want to take your EE to the next level and ensure you score high, consider using our review service that provides detailed, constructive feedback and specific tips for improvement.