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Marks from the EE are turned into grades, using the grade boundaries . The EE grade is combined with the TOK grade to determine the number of bonus points awarded, using the following 'matrix'. If you do not submit your extended essay on time (NS = Not Submitted) , or you do not submit your TOK essay on time you will not be awarded your IB Diploma. Failure to submit either will result in a failure to receive the Diploma.

Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) is of course the third required component of the IB Diploma Programme 'core'. Besides earning grades for the EE and TOK, candidates must fulfil the requirements for CAS in order to receive their diploma.

So how many students are awarded bonus points on the average? These numbers vary from year to year, but generally speaking these are world averages. See the latest IB Statistical Bulletin for the most recent numbers.

3 bonus points = 8% 2 bonus points = 36% 1 bonus point = 26% 0 bonus points = 30%

Why are they called 'bonus' points (or previously 'additional' points)? The 24-point requirement for receiving the Diploma cannot be attained through bonus points but from the candidate's six subjects.

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Sat / act prep online guides and tips, the complete ib extended essay guide: examples, topics, and ideas.

International Baccalaureate (IB)

IB students around the globe fear writing the Extended Essay, but it doesn't have to be a source of stress! In this article, I'll get you excited about writing your Extended Essay and provide you with the resources you need to get an A on it.

If you're reading this article, I'm going to assume you're an IB student getting ready to write your Extended Essay. If you're looking at this as a potential future IB student, I recommend reading our introductory IB articles first, including our guide to what the IB program is and our full coverage of the IB curriculum .

IB Extended Essay: Why Should You Trust My Advice?

I myself am a recipient of an IB Diploma, and I happened to receive an A on my IB Extended Essay. Don't believe me? The proof is in the IBO pudding:

If you're confused by what this report means, EE is short for Extended Essay , and English A1 is the subject that my Extended Essay topic coordinated with. In layman's terms, my IB Diploma was graded in May 2010, I wrote my Extended Essay in the English A1 category, and I received an A grade on it.

What Is the Extended Essay in the IB Diploma Programme?

The IB Extended Essay, or EE , is a mini-thesis you write under the supervision of an IB advisor (an IB teacher at your school), which counts toward your IB Diploma (learn more about the major IB Diploma requirements in our guide) . I will explain exactly how the EE affects your Diploma later in this article.

For the Extended Essay, you will choose a research question as a topic, conduct the research independently, then write an essay on your findings . The essay itself is a long one—although there's a cap of 4,000 words, most successful essays get very close to this limit.

Keep in mind that the IB requires this essay to be a "formal piece of academic writing," meaning you'll have to do outside research and cite additional sources.

The IB Extended Essay must include the following:

• A title page
• Contents page
• Introduction
• Body of the essay
• References and bibliography

Additionally, your research topic must fall into one of the six approved DP categories , or IB subject groups, which are as follows:

• Group 1: Studies in Language and Literature
• Group 2: Language Acquisition
• Group 3: Individuals and Societies
• Group 4: Sciences
• Group 5: Mathematics
• Group 6: The Arts

Once you figure out your category and have identified a potential research topic, it's time to pick your advisor, who is normally an IB teacher at your school (though you can also find one online ). This person will help direct your research, and they'll conduct the reflection sessions you'll have to do as part of your Extended Essay.

As of 2018, the IB requires a "reflection process" as part of your EE supervision process. To fulfill this requirement, you have to meet at least three times with your supervisor in what the IB calls "reflection sessions." These meetings are not only mandatory but are also part of the formal assessment of the EE and your research methods.

According to the IB, the purpose of these meetings is to "provide an opportunity for students to reflect on their engagement with the research process." Basically, these meetings give your supervisor the opportunity to offer feedback, push you to think differently, and encourage you to evaluate your research process.

The final reflection session is called the viva voce, and it's a short 10- to 15-minute interview between you and your advisor. This happens at the very end of the EE process, and it's designed to help your advisor write their report, which factors into your EE grade.

Here are the topics covered in your viva voce :

• A check on plagiarism and malpractice
• Your reflection on your project's successes and difficulties
• Your reflection on what you've learned during the EE process

Your completed Extended Essay, along with your supervisor's report, will then be sent to the IB to be graded. We'll cover the assessment criteria in just a moment.

We'll help you learn how to have those "lightbulb" moments...even on test day!  

What Should You Write About in Your IB Extended Essay?

You can technically write about anything, so long as it falls within one of the approved categories listed above.

It's best to choose a topic that matches one of the IB courses , (such as Theatre, Film, Spanish, French, Math, Biology, etc.), which shouldn't be difficult because there are so many class subjects.

Here is a range of sample topics with the attached extended essay:

• Biology: The Effect of Age and Gender on the Photoreceptor Cells in the Human Retina
• Chemistry: How Does Reflux Time Affect the Yield and Purity of Ethyl Aminobenzoate (Benzocaine), and How Effective is Recrystallisation as a Purification Technique for This Compound?
• English: An Exploration of Jane Austen's Use of the Outdoors in Emma
• Geography: The Effect of Location on the Educational Attainment of Indigenous Secondary Students in Queensland, Australia
• Math: Alhazen's Billiard Problem
• Visual Arts: Can Luc Tuymans Be Classified as a Political Painter?

You can see from how varied the topics are that you have a lot of freedom when it comes to picking a topic . So how do you pick when the options are limitless?

How to Write a Stellar IB Extended Essay: 6 Essential Tips

Below are six key tips to keep in mind as you work on your Extended Essay for the IB DP. Follow these and you're sure to get an A!

#1: Write About Something You Enjoy

You can't expect to write a compelling essay if you're not a fan of the topic on which you're writing. For example, I just love British theatre and ended up writing my Extended Essay on a revolution in post-WWII British theatre. (Yes, I'm definitely a #TheatreNerd.)

I really encourage anyone who pursues an IB Diploma to take the Extended Essay seriously. I was fortunate enough to receive a full-tuition merit scholarship to USC's School of Dramatic Arts program. In my interview for the scholarship, I spoke passionately about my Extended Essay; thus, I genuinely think my Extended Essay helped me get my scholarship.

But how do you find a topic you're passionate about? Start by thinking about which classes you enjoy the most and why . Do you like math classes because you like to solve problems? Or do you enjoy English because you like to analyze literary texts?

Keep in mind that there's no right or wrong answer when it comes to choosing your Extended Essay topic. You're not more likely to get high marks because you're writing about science, just like you're not doomed to failure because you've chosen to tackle the social sciences. The quality of what you produce—not the field you choose to research within—will determine your grade.

Once you've figured out your category, you should brainstorm more specific topics by putting pen to paper . What was your favorite chapter you learned in that class? Was it astrophysics or mechanics? What did you like about that specific chapter? Is there something you want to learn more about? I recommend spending a few hours on this type of brainstorming.

One last note: if you're truly stumped on what to research, pick a topic that will help you in your future major or career . That way you can use your Extended Essay as a talking point in your college essays (and it will prepare you for your studies to come too!).

#2: Select a Topic That Is Neither Too Broad nor Too Narrow

There's a fine line between broad and narrow. You need to write about something specific, but not so specific that you can't write 4,000 words on it.

You can't write about WWII because that would be a book's worth of material. You also don't want to write about what type of soup prisoners of war received behind enemy lines, because you probably won’t be able to come up with 4,000 words of material about it. However, you could possibly write about how the conditions in German POW camps—and the rations provided—were directly affected by the Nazis' successes and failures on the front, including the use of captured factories and prison labor in Eastern Europe to increase production. WWII military history might be a little overdone, but you get my point.

If you're really stuck trying to pinpoint a not-too-broad-or-too-narrow topic, I suggest trying to brainstorm a topic that uses a comparison. Once you begin looking through the list of sample essays below, you'll notice that many use comparisons to formulate their main arguments.

I also used a comparison in my EE, contrasting Harold Pinter's Party Time with John Osborne's Look Back in Anger in order to show a transition in British theatre. Topics with comparisons of two to three plays, books, and so on tend to be the sweet spot. You can analyze each item and then compare them with one another after doing some in-depth analysis of each individually. The ways these items compare and contrast will end up forming the thesis of your essay!

When choosing a comparative topic, the key is that the comparison should be significant. I compared two plays to illustrate the transition in British theatre, but you could compare the ways different regional dialects affect people's job prospects or how different temperatures may or may not affect the mating patterns of lightning bugs. The point here is that comparisons not only help you limit your topic, but they also help you build your argument.

Comparisons are not the only way to get a grade-A EE, though. If after brainstorming, you pick a non-comparison-based topic and are still unsure whether your topic is too broad or narrow, spend about 30 minutes doing some basic research and see how much material is out there.

If there are more than 1,000 books, articles, or documentaries out there on that exact topic, it may be too broad. But if there are only two books that have any connection to your topic, it may be too narrow. If you're still unsure, ask your advisor—it's what they're there for! Speaking of advisors...

Don't get stuck with a narrow topic!

#3: Choose an Advisor Who Is Familiar With Your Topic

If you're not certain of who you would like to be your advisor, create a list of your top three choices. Next, write down the pros and cons of each possibility (I know this sounds tedious, but it really helps!).

For example, Mr. Green is my favorite teacher and we get along really well, but he teaches English. For my EE, I want to conduct an experiment that compares the efficiency of American electric cars with foreign electric cars.

I had Ms. White a year ago. She teaches physics and enjoyed having me in her class. Unlike Mr. Green, Ms. White could help me design my experiment.

Based on my topic and what I need from my advisor, Ms. White would be a better fit for me than would Mr. Green (even though I like him a lot).

The moral of my story is this: do not just ask your favorite teacher to be your advisor . They might be a hindrance to you if they teach another subject. For example, I would not recommend asking your biology teacher to guide you in writing an English literature-based EE.

There can, of course, be exceptions to this rule. If you have a teacher who's passionate and knowledgeable about your topic (as my English teacher was about my theatre topic), you could ask that instructor. Consider all your options before you do this. There was no theatre teacher at my high school, so I couldn't find a theatre-specific advisor, but I chose the next best thing.

Before you approach a teacher to serve as your advisor, check with your high school to see what requirements they have for this process. Some IB high schools require your IB Extended Essay advisor to sign an Agreement Form , for instance.

Make sure that you ask your IB coordinator whether there is any required paperwork to fill out. If your school needs a specific form signed, bring it with you when you ask your teacher to be your EE advisor.

#4: Pick an Advisor Who Will Push You to Be Your Best

Some teachers might just take on students because they have to and aren't very passionate about reading drafts, only giving you minimal feedback. Choose a teacher who will take the time to read several drafts of your essay and give you extensive notes. I would not have gotten my A without being pushed to make my Extended Essay draft better.

Ask a teacher that you have experience with through class or an extracurricular activity. Do not ask a teacher that you have absolutely no connection to. If a teacher already knows you, that means they already know your strengths and weaknesses, so they know what to look for, where you need to improve, and how to encourage your best work.

Also, don't forget that your supervisor's assessment is part of your overall EE score . If you're meeting with someone who pushes you to do better—and you actually take their advice—they'll have more impressive things to say about you than a supervisor who doesn't know you well and isn't heavily involved in your research process.

Be aware that the IB only allows advisors to make suggestions and give constructive criticism. Your teacher cannot actually help you write your EE. The IB recommends that the supervisor spends approximately two to three hours in total with the candidate discussing the EE.

#5: Make Sure Your Essay Has a Clear Structure and Flow

The IB likes structure. Your EE needs a clear introduction (which should be one to two double-spaced pages), research question/focus (i.e., what you're investigating), a body, and a conclusion (about one double-spaced page). An essay with unclear organization will be graded poorly.

The body of your EE should make up the bulk of the essay. It should be about eight to 18 pages long (again, depending on your topic). Your body can be split into multiple parts. For example, if you were doing a comparison, you might have one third of your body as Novel A Analysis, another third as Novel B Analysis, and the final third as your comparison of Novels A and B.

If you're conducting an experiment or analyzing data, such as in this EE , your EE body should have a clear structure that aligns with the scientific method ; you should state the research question, discuss your method, present the data, analyze the data, explain any uncertainties, and draw a conclusion and/or evaluate the success of the experiment.

#6: Start Writing Sooner Rather Than Later!

You will not be able to crank out a 4,000-word essay in just a week and get an A on it. You'll be reading many, many articles (and, depending on your topic, possibly books and plays as well!). As such, it's imperative that you start your research as soon as possible.

Each school has a slightly different deadline for the Extended Essay. Some schools want them as soon as November of your senior year; others will take them as late as February. Your school will tell you what your deadline is. If they haven't mentioned it by February of your junior year, ask your IB coordinator about it.

Some high schools will provide you with a timeline of when you need to come up with a topic, when you need to meet with your advisor, and when certain drafts are due. Not all schools do this. Ask your IB coordinator if you are unsure whether you are on a specific timeline.

Below is my recommended EE timeline. While it's earlier than most schools, it'll save you a ton of heartache (trust me, I remember how hard this process was!):

• January/February of Junior Year: Come up with your final research topic (or at least your top three options).
• February of Junior Year: Approach a teacher about being your EE advisor. If they decline, keep asking others until you find one. See my notes above on how to pick an EE advisor.
• April/May of Junior Year: Submit an outline of your EE and a bibliography of potential research sources (I recommend at least seven to 10) to your EE advisor. Meet with your EE advisor to discuss your outline.
• Summer Between Junior and Senior Year: Complete your first full draft over the summer between your junior and senior year. I know, I know—no one wants to work during the summer, but trust me—this will save you so much stress come fall when you are busy with college applications and other internal assessments for your IB classes. You will want to have this first full draft done because you will want to complete a couple of draft cycles as you likely won't be able to get everything you want to say into 4,000 articulate words on the first attempt. Try to get this first draft into the best possible shape so you don't have to work on too many revisions during the school year on top of your homework, college applications, and extracurriculars.
• August/September of Senior Year: Turn in your first draft of your EE to your advisor and receive feedback. Work on incorporating their feedback into your essay. If they have a lot of suggestions for improvement, ask if they will read one more draft before the final draft.
• September/October of Senior Year: Submit the second draft of your EE to your advisor (if necessary) and look at their feedback. Work on creating the best possible final draft.
• November-February of Senior Year: Schedule your viva voce. Submit two copies of your final draft to your school to be sent off to the IB. You likely will not get your grade until after you graduate.

Remember that in the middle of these milestones, you'll need to schedule two other reflection sessions with your advisor . (Your teachers will actually take notes on these sessions on a form like this one , which then gets submitted to the IB.)

I recommend doing them when you get feedback on your drafts, but these meetings will ultimately be up to your supervisor. Just don't forget to do them!

The early bird DOES get the worm!

How Is the IB Extended Essay Graded?

Extended Essays are graded by examiners appointed by the IB on a scale of 0 to 34 . You'll be graded on five criteria, each with its own set of points. You can learn more about how EE scoring works by reading the IB guide to extended essays .

• Criterion A: Focus and Method (6 points maximum)
• Criterion B: Knowledge and Understanding (6 points maximum)
• Criterion C: Critical Thinking (12 points maximum)
• Criterion D: Presentation (4 points maximum)
• Criterion E: Engagement (6 points maximum)

How well you do on each of these criteria will determine the final letter grade you get for your EE. You must earn at least a D to be eligible to receive your IB Diploma.

Although each criterion has a point value, the IB explicitly states that graders are not converting point totals into grades; instead, they're using qualitative grade descriptors to determine the final grade of your Extended Essay . Grade descriptors are on pages 102-103 of this document .

Here's a rough estimate of how these different point values translate to letter grades based on previous scoring methods for the EE. This is just an estimate —you should read and understand the grade descriptors so you know exactly what the scorers are looking for.

Here is the breakdown of EE scores (from the May 2021 bulletin):

How Does the Extended Essay Grade Affect Your IB Diploma?

The Extended Essay grade is combined with your TOK (Theory of Knowledge) grade to determine how many points you get toward your IB Diploma.

To learn about Theory of Knowledge or how many points you need to receive an IB Diploma, read our complete guide to the IB program and our guide to the IB Diploma requirements .

This diagram shows how the two scores are combined to determine how many points you receive for your IB diploma (3 being the most, 0 being the least). In order to get your IB Diploma, you have to earn 24 points across both categories (the TOK and EE). The highest score anyone can earn is 45 points.

Let's say you get an A on your EE and a B on TOK. You will get 3 points toward your Diploma. As of 2014, a student who scores an E on either the extended essay or TOK essay will not be eligible to receive an IB Diploma .

Prior to the class of 2010, a Diploma candidate could receive a failing grade in either the Extended Essay or Theory of Knowledge and still be awarded a Diploma, but this is no longer true.

Figuring out how you're assessed can be a little tricky. Luckily, the IB breaks everything down here in this document . (The assessment information begins on page 219.)

40+ Sample Extended Essays for the IB Diploma Programme

In case you want a little more guidance on how to get an A on your EE, here are over 40 excellent (grade A) sample extended essays for your reading pleasure. Essays are grouped by IB subject.

• Business Management 1
• Chemistry 1
• Chemistry 2
• Chemistry 3
• Chemistry 4
• Chemistry 5
• Chemistry 6
• Chemistry 7
• Computer Science 1
• Economics 1
• Design Technology 1
• Design Technology 2
• Environmental Systems and Societies 1
• Geography 1
• Geography 2
• Geography 3
• Geography 4
• Geography 5
• Geography 6
• Literature and Performance 1
• Mathematics 1
• Mathematics 2
• Mathematics 3
• Mathematics 4
• Mathematics 5
• Philosophy 1
• Philosophy 2
• Philosophy 3
• Philosophy 4
• Philosophy 5
• Psychology 1
• Psychology 2
• Psychology 3
• Psychology 4
• Psychology 5
• Social and Cultural Anthropology 1
• Social and Cultural Anthropology 2
• Social and Cultural Anthropology 3
• Sports, Exercise and Health Science 1
• Sports, Exercise and Health Science 2
• Visual Arts 1
• Visual Arts 2
• Visual Arts 3
• Visual Arts 4
• Visual Arts 5
• World Religion 1
• World Religion 2
• World Religion 3

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Grades and teacher recommendations are the primary ways schools evaluate students' academic readiness in the US boarding application process. However, SSAT provides another data point for students to increase academic confidence. When deciding whether to send your SSAT scores to a boarding school, there are a few things to consider.

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Quick Facts about IB Theory of Knowledge (TOK) and Extended Essay (EE)

Within the IBDP Curriculum, where do the Theory of Knowledge (TOK) and Extended Essay (EE) belong?

The IB Mission Statement states that the International Baccalaureate® aims to develop inquiring, knowledgeable and caring young people who help to create a better and more peaceful world through intercultural understanding and respect.

In order to achieve the above statement, the IB has 3 core elements:

• To create inquiring students, the IBDP has the TOK, or the Theory of knowledge, in which students reflect on the nature of knowledge and on how we know what we claim to know.
• To create knowledgeable students, the IBDP has the EE or extended essay, which is an independent, self-directed piece of research, finishing with a 4,000-word paper.
• To create caring students, the IBDP has CAS, or Creativity, activity, service, in which students complete a project related to those three concepts.

As the academic representation of the first mission statement, the TOK or EE have been at the heart of the IB.

How does the TOK reflect an inquiring mind?

Theory of knowledge (TOK) is a course taught at the IBDP level. Students, who have passed through IBMYP should have the basic framework to advance into Theory of Knowledge (TOK) at the IBDP level. For some needed context, the 5 years leading up to the IBDP, the middle years programme or IBMYP (grades 5-10 or years 6-11) focuses on “learning how to learn” through the development of approaches to learning (ATL) skills. Approaches to learning skills are all the interpersonal and intrapersonal skills that a student learns from interacting with other students, community members (through CAS) and by instruction from their teachers. The complete IB system runs from primary years, middle years, and finally to the last two years - the diploma programme.

Approaches to learning can be broken down into the following, but are not limited to:

communication, collaboration, organization, self-management, reflection, research, informational literacy, media literacy, creative and critical thinking, and transfer of learning.

Interactive teachers who focus on supporting all of the above ATLs in their respective classrooms have built the necessary foundations for students to understand the concepts in the TOK - which is intercultural understanding, global engagement, and personal awareness of knowledge from the perspective of the individual and their respective peers.

How would the ARCH bridge the GAP in understanding the TOK and EE as a product within the IB?

Specifically, ARCH Education helps students understand the overall aim of the TOK, which is understanding how to answer: “how do you know?” in a variety of contexts, and to see the value of that question in creating a life-long partnership with learning.

On a more meaningful level, ARCH Education sees the IBDP as a holistic programme that encompasses two of the core elements: TOK and EE. And at the heart of these elements is the student’s own Real-Life Situation from which both the TOK Knowledge question and the Extended Essay Question are derived.

In the TOK and the EE, personal “insight” is what separates a mediocre paper from a great paper. And through the ARCH pedagogy of teaching, we can framework the necessary skill sets for personal inquiry and academic exploration.

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Theory of Knowledge and Extended Essay

What is theory of knowledge (tok).

The interdisciplinary Theory of Knowledge course is designed to develop a coherent approach to learning that transcends and unifies the academic areas and encourages appreciation of other cultural perspectives.

The course is in part intended to encourage students to reflect on the huge cultural shifts worldwide around the digital revolution and the information economy. The extent and impact of the changes vary greatly in different parts of the world, but everywhere their implications for knowledge are profound. Theory of knowledge encourages critical thinking about knowledge itself and aims to help young people make sense of what they encounter. Its core content focuses on questions such as the following:

• What counts as knowledge?
• How does it grow?
• What are its limits?
• Who owns knowledge?
• What is the value of knowledge?
• What are the implications of having, or not having, knowledge?

What is Extended Essay (EE)?

The extended essay of approximately 4,000 words offers the opportunity for IB students to investigate a topic of special interest, usually one of the student’s six Diploma Programme subjects, and acquaints them with the independent research and writing skills expected at university. It is intended to promote high-level research and writing skills, intellectual discovery and creativity—resulting in approximately 40 hours of work. It provides students with an opportunity to engage in personal research on a topic of choice, under the guidance of a supervisor.

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Assessment criteria

This page provides detail on EE assessment criteria, TOK EE Matrix, grade boundaries, and unpacking criteria.

Total Points

The EE is graded out of 34 points; broken into five mains sections.

A: Focus and method [6 points]

B: Knowledge and understanding [6 points]

C: Critical thinking [12 points]

D: Presentation [4 points]

E: Engagement [6 points]

From IBO.org

All extended essays are externally assessed by examiners appointed by the IB. They are marked on a scale from 0 to 34.

The score a student receives relates to a band. The bands are:

A – work of an excellent standard.

B – work of a good standard.

C –work of a satisfactory standard.

D – work of a mediocre standard.

E – work of an elementary standard.

Grade Boundaries

For the Class of 2018, 2019 and 2020

A = 27 - 34

B = 21 - 26

C = 14 - 20

TOK AND EE TOGETHER

Remember that the Extended Essay in Combination with the Theory of Knowledge Grade makes up a total of 3 bonus points towards the IB Diploma.

The matrix on the right shows how the points can be combined from TOK and EE to earn the points.

*If you do not complete or fail either TOK or the EE you are not eligible to receive an IB Diploma.

Understanding EE criteria

A: Focus & Method

This criterion focuses on the topic, the research question and the methodology. It assesses the explanation of the focus of the research (this includes the topic and the research question), how the research will be undertaken, and how the focus is maintained throughout the essay.

B: Knowledge & Understanding

This criterion assesses the extent to which the research relates to the subject area/discipline used to explore the research question, or in the case of the world studies extended essay, the issue addressed and the two disciplinary perspectives applied, and additionally the way in which the knowledge and understanding is demonstrated through the use of the appropriate terminology and concepts.

C: Critical Thinking

This criterion assesses the extent to which critical-thinking skills have been used to analyse and evaluate the research undertaken.

D: Presentation

This criterion assesses the extent to which the presentation follows the standard format expected for academic writing and the extent to which this aids effective communication.

E: Engagement

This criterion assesses the student’s engagement with their research focus and the research process. It will be applied by the examiner at the end of the assessment of the essay , and is based solely on the candidate’s reflections as detailed in the RPPF, with supervisory comments and the extended essay itself as context

Unpacking the criteria

The IB EE Guide clearly states. ..

"The extended essay is externally assessed, and as such, supervisors are not expected to mark the essays or arrive at a number to translate into a grade. Predicted grades for all subjects should be based on the qualitative grade descriptors for the subject in question. These descriptors are what will be used by senior examiners to set the boundaries for the extended essay in May 2018, and so schools are advised to use them in the same way."

EE Full criteria rubrics

EE TOK MATRIX

Extended Essay in Combination with the Theory of Knowledge Grade makes up a total of 3 bonus points towards the IB Diploma. The matrix on the right shows how the points can be combined from TOK and EE to earn the points. If you do not complete or fail either TOK or the EE you are not eligible to receive an IB Diploma.

Understanding EE Criteria

Extended Essay Writers

EE and TOK Matrix: How It Affects the IB Program?

Luke MacQuoid

Welcome, IB graduates! Do you need help with the EE and TOK matrix? You’ve landed on the right spot. As a specialist in IB education, I’ve assisted numerous students in comprehending the intricacies of the International Baccalaureate program, specifically the Extended Essay (EE) and Theory of Knowledge (TOK) .

Learning the EE and TOK matrix is crucial for anyone eager to succeed in the IB Diploma. That’s why today, we’re going to break down this aspect in as much detail as possible so that you won’t have any questions in the future.

Maximizing IB Diploma Scores with the EE TOK Matrix

The EE TOK matrix is essential in the IB Diploma Program. It helps to increase a student’s score by combining their achievements in the Extended Essay and Theory of Knowledge. This way, students can earn more points towards their IB Diploma.

EE: The Path to Excellent Research

The Extended Essay is a significant research project that concludes with a 4,000-word paper. It allows IB students to conduct independent investigations, preparing them for college-level studies.

This aspect of the International Baccalaureate program will enable students to get into a subject they are passionate about in-depth, especially one of their six Diploma Programme subjects. The Extended Essay cultivates academic skills, personal development, and intellectual curiosity.

TOK: Cultivating Critical Thinking

TOK, on the other hand, aims to improve students’ critical thinking skills. It encourages students to think about how they know things and the different areas of knowledge. TOK also challenges students to examine the nature of knowledge in different cultures and contexts, broadening their perspectives. This class is essential for shaping students’ comprehension of information and its practical use.

The Synergy of EE and TOK in the Matrix

The EE TOK matrix combines two critical parts. The evaluation of a student’s performance in EE and TOK grants them extra points in their IB Diploma. The matrix recognizes academic abilities and supports a well-rounded approach to learning and gaining knowledge. 

Understanding and doing well in Extended Essays and Theory of Knowledge is essential for achieving one’s full potential in the IB Diploma Program and establishing a solid basis for future academic and personal success.

The EE and TOK matrix contributes to the IB Program in several ways:

• Critical Thinking and Analytical Skills . Both EE and TOK encourage students to develop critical thinking and analytical skills. These skills are crucial not just for academic success but also for personal and professional life.
• Interdisciplinary Learning . TOK, in particular, encourages students to make connections between different areas of knowledge, fostering a more holistic understanding of the world.
• Research Skills . The Extended Essay requires students to engage in independent research. This experience is invaluable for university-level studies and developing information-gathering, analysis, and presentation skills.
• Additional Points . The combination of grades achieved in EE and TOK can contribute up to 3 extra points towards the total IB Diploma score. This can be crucial for students aiming for higher IB scores.
• Personal Growth . Both components encourage students to explore and articulate their perspectives on knowledge and learning, fostering personal growth and self-awareness.

In short, the EE and TOK parts are crucial to the IB Program. They give scholars vital abilities and chances for self-improvement and intellectual expansion. Beyond being educational needs, they shape all-around analytical and reflective thinkers.

How Can You Calculate EE and TOK Matrix?

Calculating your score in the EE and TOK matrix is integral to strategizing for success in the IB Diploma Program. Here’s an extended guide to how it works:

• Your EE is graded on a scale from A (highest) to E (lowest). This grade reflects your ability to conduct in-depth research and present your findings coherently. Striving for a high grade in EE means showcasing your research, analysis, and writing skills.
• Similarly, TOK is graded from A to E. Your TOK grade indicates your understanding and application of critical thinking skills. It evaluates your ability to question, analyze, and reflect on the nature of knowledge.

The IB provides a matrix table that aligns these grades. The table is designed to encourage students to perform well in both areas. For example, if you get an “A” in TOK and a “B” in EE, find the intersecting cell in the matrix to determine your bonus points.

Remember that receiving an “E” in either EE or TOK could mean not obtaining the IB Diploma. It underlines the importance of dedicating sufficient time and resources to both components.

EE and TOK Matrix: College Admissions

In today’s world, the IB Diploma is essential for getting into college. It’s like a detailed report card that shows how good you are at studying. The extra points you get from doing well in your EE and TOK can help. Here’s why these additional points matter a lot:

• Getting into College . Some colleges ask for a certain number of points to let you in. If you get extra points from your EE and TOK, it can help you reach or even go past this number.
• Making the Cut . Sometimes, when colleges can’t decide if they should let you in, these extra points can make all the difference. They can help you get a spot in the college you want.
• Getting Scholarships . If you want a scholarship, you usually need to have perfect grades. The extra points from EE and TOK can be what you need to get a scholarship instead of taking a college loan.
• Going to Top Colleges . If you want to attend an outstanding college, you often need a lot of points. The extra points from EE and TOK can help you meet these high requirements.
• Special Programs . For some special college programs that are hard to get into, having extra points can make you look more appealing to the college.

So, if you’re aiming for a great college or an exceptional program, the extra points from your EE and TOK aren’t just good. They can help you get where you want to go.

Tips for Success in the EE and TOK Matrix to Earn Additional Points

Consider these strategies to stand out in the TOK EE matrix and earn extra points for your IB Diploma.

1. Gain a Deep Understanding of the EE TOK Matrix

Understanding the mechanics of the EE and TOK matrix is crucial. Familiarize yourself with how your grades in these two components translate into additional points for your IB Diploma. This knowledge will allow you to aim for grades that maximize your overall score strategically.

2. Thoughtful Selection of EE Topic

Choosing the right topic for your Extended Essay is vital. Select a subject that interests you and aligns with your strengths and academic interests. A well-chosen topic can inspire more profound research and engaging writing, making the process more enjoyable and rewarding regarding your final grade.

3. Strong EE Research Question

A solid research question should anchor your EE. This issue should be clear, focused, and complex enough for in-depth investigation and discussion. Spend time refining this question to ensure it guides your research effectively and aligns with the IB criteria.

Need help with your IB extended essay?

From research and analysis to structuring and editing, our skilled mentors will be by your side, helping you craft an exceptional extended essay that not only meets the wordcount and stringent IB criteria but also reflects your passion for selected IB group .

4. Effective Planning and Structuring of EE

Organize your EE with a clear structure and plan. A well-organized essay not only makes your arguments more coherent but also makes the writing process more manageable. Detailed planning can significantly enhance the quality of your final submission.

5. Deep Engagement with TOK Concepts

In TOK, depth of understanding is critical. Engage thoroughly with the course’s core concepts, such as the ways of knowing and areas of knowledge. Demonstrating a deep and thoughtful engagement with these ideas can significantly impact your TOK grade.

6. Developing Critical Thinking for TOK

TOK is all about evaluating knowledge claims and arguments. Practice critical thinking by analyzing different perspectives and arguments. This skill is essential for TOK and beneficial for your overall intellectual development.

7. Applying TOK to Real-World Scenarios

Use practical examples to illustrate and support your arguments in TOK. Applying theory to real-world scenarios shows your ability to connect abstract concepts with realistic situations, a skill highly valued in the IB TOK assessment.

8. Regular Feedback from Teachers and Mentors

Regularly seek feedback from your teachers and mentors on your EE and TOK work. Their insights can offer new perspectives and help identify areas for improvement. Constructive feedback is invaluable in refining your work and aligning it closely with IB expectations.

In conclusion, the EE TOK matrix is a critical component of the IB Diploma, offering students the chance to earn additional points crucial for university admissions and scholarships. While the EE and TOK paths can be challenging, Extended Essay Writers provides IB expert assistance. We offer services designed to reduce the stress of writing EE, allowing IB students to balance their academic and personal interests better. Our team of IB writers provides high-quality essays and assists with topic selection, ensuring that students can submit work that stands out. 🏆

Luke MacQuoid has extensive experience teaching English as a foreign language in Japan, having worked with students of all ages for over 12 years. Currently, he is teaching at the tertiary level. Luke holds a BA from the University of Sussex and an MA in TESOL from Lancaster University, both located in England. As well to his work as an IB Examiner and Master Tutor, Luke also enjoys sharing his experiences and insights with others through writing articles for various websites, including extendedessaywriters.com blog

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Guide to the TOK Presentation

What’s covered:, what is the theory of knowledge (tok) presentation, how is the tok presentation scored, how to pick a tok presentation topic, how to structure your tok presentation.

The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IB/IBDP) is a high school program offering courses in subjects, ranging from mathematics to Arabic. Students sign up for a holistic approach to learning including external examinations, internal assessments, research papers and community service hours. Students will have to do a bit of everything while completing IB’s core, including CAS, Theory of Knowledge (TOK), and the extended essay (EE). Understanding how to excel in TOK will usually help students in their other aspects of student life. It’ll be important to be familiar with the basics of TOK as a subject before progressing into one of its components, the presentation. 

Quite similar to the TOK essay , the TOK presentation is an attempt to assess your critical thinking skills while conveying your opinions in a clear cut manner. While a TOK essay is more conceptual in its nature in tackling the focal point, the TOK presentation answers a knowledge question by making use of actual real life scenarios to display your understanding of TOK concepts .

The TOK presentation can be done individually, in pairs, or in a group of three. It’s usually delivered in front of your TOK classroom, making this an internal assessment that other students are watching and taking peer review notes on. Each presentation gets a max of 10 minutes per presenter, meaning if you have three people, you get 30 minutes. The actual presentation is followed by a discussion section where the presenter actively engages in a Q&A with the audience and the teacher.

A lot of students really struggle with where to start the presentation, but if you break it down by following a few steps it gets a lot more manageable:

1. Knowledge Question (KQ)

The knowledge question is the focus of your presentation. Upon being given a list of topics for the TOK presentation, keep in mind that the list of selections changes every examination set. So, once you pick a topic, you could create a KQ that analyzes this topic to a greater degree. An example of a knowledge question could be: “What is the role of faith in making ethical decisions.” This is a good knowledge question because it incorporates ways of knowing (WOKs) which are important to analyze in any TOK presentation.

2. Real Life Situation (RLS)

A RLS is supposed to be an example or situation that you can directly use as an expression of your KQ. Relating your RLS to numerous WOKs and areas of knowledge (AOKs) strengthens the arguments you make (the claims and counterclaims for your presentation) and earns you a chunk of your grade for the presentation. 

3. Planning out your presentation 

Creating an outline that details each slide, and even writing down how many minutes you spend on each section of your presentation is important, allowing you to allocate time and manage your presentation efficiently. Creating this outline can also help you feel more confident when your presentation day comes around too!

These three tips can serve as the founding basis for your presentation and will definitely help get you started on the right track!

The grade you get in IB includes the core (CAS, extended essay and TOK). And, 33% of your total IB TOK grade is dependent on your TOK presentation, which is usually graded externally, but recorded internally. What this means is, your actual presentation will be recorded by your teacher, and the recording with your slides will be sent to the IB board, who then assigns an external grader to assess it. The presentation is scored out of ten points, as well as the essay, and the following formula explains the grading schema:

(presentation score) + (essay score * 2) = overall score out of 30

To correlate a letter grade to your score out of 30, IB uses grade boundaries. These boundaries can change any year so checking in with your school for the most updated ones is best. Here is a past example of grade boundaries:

Upon receiving a letter grade you can calculate your grade for the core of IB, which includes the extended essay, CAS, and TOK. Passing the core is essential to earning your diploma in IB and the table below outlines this further: 

Your topic should be presented in the form of a knowledge question that isn’t easily answered with two-dimensional answers like “yes” and “no.” It should in its nature make both the presenter and the audience think deeper into multilevel ways of understanding knowledge as a concept. More often than not, a KQ will usually end up with people having more questions than ending up with a satisfying answer, and that’s exactly what IB wants from a presentation, a debatable and questioning idea. This is usually achieved with a KQ and RLS that work hand in hand, and successful students make sure to consistently link back to their solid topics throughout the presentation. An example of a good TOK presentation topic might look like this: To what extent does faith play a part in online shopping experiences?

In this case a related RLS could be:

Purchases of overpriced and highly coveted products with little to no inherent practical value.

Your topic should have an RLS that the audience can at least relate to, making it easier for them to stay on board for the duration of your presentation, but as well as stay engaged with what you’re talking about. Once you pick a great topic for the presentation, the rest of the planning and work actually falls in place a lot more steadily. 

Breaking the presentation down slide-by-slide is the best way to plan it out, and the following structure may help streamline the process of creating it from start to finish.

• Slide 2 – RLS and Context In this slide you introduce your RLS and provide all the required context and information to explain what your RLS is to the audience. Make sure to start using jargon specific to TOK. Introducing your WOKs and AOKs is a good idea in this slide, and relating it to your RLS should be how you wrap it up.
• Slide 3 – KQ and RLS Declare the KQ that you’ve decided upon and analyze the KQ by breaking it down into segments that can be further developed on. If the KQ contains or mentions a WOK or AOK, further contextualize that specific AOK or WOK for the audience. Explain any assumptions you’ve made on the basis of your KQ and RLS as well, before you continue to develop on them.

The most important tip for IB students when it comes to TOK is the most generic one: start as early as possible! IB is an ultra-holistic approach to schooling, so there’s a lot more than just TOK going on; students usually need to make time to study for internal and external assessments, CAS service hours, and even writing their extended essays. Starting TOK work as early as possible not only sets you up with more time to produce work of higher quality, but also allows you to allocate time for other tasks as well. 

Otherwise, you might find yourself feeling burnt out and unmotivated before actually submitting the essay, and maybe even prevent yourself from achieving that high score in IB that you wanted. So start early, and give yourself that easy extra advantage!

While your IB scores aren’t as important to college admissions as one might assume, showing proof that you’re taking rigorous classes and demonstrating hard work throughout your time as an IB student is more impactful. For better insight into how your chances of college admissions look, check out CollegeVine’s admissions calculator ! 

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Can someone explain the IB TOK points system to me? I'm a bit confused with how I can earn points in theory of knowledge. How do these points factor into my overall diploma score and influence college admissions?

Of course! Let me break down the International Baccalaureate (IB) Theory of Knowledge (TOK) points system for you.

The Theory of Knowledge (TOK) is a part of the IB Diploma Programme's core requirements, alongside the Extended Essay (EE) and Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS). TOK is a course that centers on the philosophical investigation of knowledge, by evaluating ways of knowing and exploring areas of knowledge.

TOK is assessed through an essay (externally assessed) and a presentation (internally assessed). The TOK essay is worth 10 points, while the TOK presentation is worth 10 points as well, making a total of 20 points available for the course.

The essay requires you to respond to one of six prescribed titles provided by the IB, and it should be between 1,200 and 1,600 words. The presentation is an oral task based on a real-life situation of your choosing, which you will explore through TOK concepts.

Now, how do TOK points impact your overall IB Diploma score? The TOK and Extended Essay (EE) combine to form the "Diploma Points Matrix," where your scores in both components are combined to create up to 3 bonus points that contribute to your final 45-point diploma score. These bonus points can help you achieve a higher total diploma score, if you meet the requirements, but failing to achieve minimum points in either TOK or EE can lead to not receiving the diploma.

Regarding college admissions, TOK points are not typically considered as a standalone item by admissions officers. However, a strong TOK essay or presentation can reflect your critical thinking and communication skills. More importantly, the overall IB Diploma score, which is affected by TOK points, plays a role in admissions decisions.

Colleges often have a minimum required IB score for applicants as they evaluate the academic rigor and coursework. Regarding specific IB course grades, subject grades might also be relevant for admission if your intended major aligns with courses taken in high school.

In conclusion, TOK points impact your overall IB diploma score by adding up to 3 bonus points when combined with your Extended Essay score. The overall diploma score is a better indicator for college admissions than the sole TOK points, but doing well in TOK shows your ability to think critically and communicate effectively.

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Why the IB Diploma Core (TOK, EE and CAS) are worth so much more than a mere 3 points

Is your child entering the IB Diploma feeling a bit intimidated by the Theory of Knowledge course, or daunted by the prospect of writing the Extended Essay? Have they come home saying, “TOK + EE are only worth three points out of the 45 so they’re not something worth worrying about”.  

Well, the DP Coordinators we spoke to across Switzerland would want those students who think the DP Core only weighs 3 points to know that they are gravely mistaken . Likewise, they have encouraging words for those a little concerned by it. By following the criteria and expectations of the Core carefully, it can be quite straightforward to achieve success – and those three valuable points. But by really engaging fully with the IB Diploma Core, you can add enormous value to your other subjects and in-so-doing, even add something like six more! How is this possible?

If your child is studying or intends to study the IB Diploma, you’re probably already aware that it is a programme that places special emphasis on holistic and inter-disciplinary learning, exceptional critical thinking skills and an application of learning that is of benefit to society. The type of thinking and demonstration of learning that the IB evaluates depends on students being able to think from different perspectives, transfer knowledge and apply what they learn in useful and ethical ways. These skills are exactly what the Theory of Knowledge (TOK) Course, the Extended Essay (EE) and the Creativity, Action, Service (CAS) programme seek to achieve.  

So, let’s hear some more what DP coordinators have to say about engaging with and getting the most of out the IB Diploma core.

How engaging with Theory of Knowledge can increase your points.

Joseph Amato, IB DP Coordinator at Zurich International School (ZIS), understands why students can feel a little intimidated by having to study a subject that they haven’t really thought about up until now. But he would reassure students that nobody needs preparation to study TOK and it’s a course that from the first day you can walk in and experience and enjoy. While many students are initially preoccupied by the essay and presentation (which they’re graded on), he emphasises that what makes a very interesting, useful TOK course is the opportunity to bring in many outside speakers, as well as take advantage of the talents of the teachers at school who have backgrounds and expertise in a variety of areas. All of this contributes to perspectives that go into eventually writing a better essay, and doing a better presentation.  

John Switzer, Upper School Principal of ZIS echoes that he thinks, “the best schools or the best TOK programmes are not discreet. Meaning it isn’t like you just go there for TOK and the moment you step out of that room, now I’m back to my Physics or Biology room. Actually, no, it’s more or less a way of epistemology. How do I know what I know? And what are the ways by which I come to realise things? Perception, logic. Again, that’s something that everybody can do.” According to many ZIS graduates, feedback on TOK is that it is something they really come to appreciate when they’re at university, that the skills they learned are very transferable. John elaborates that, “a professor at the University of British Columbia told me that when she begins an undergraduate class, she asks a few questions and she can immediately tell who did the IB Diploma, because of the TOK way they answer that question.”  

Keith Sykes, IB Coordinator at Collège Champittet, also finds that many students have a tendency to shove TOK to the side to concentrate on their 6 subjects, especially because if they intend to study in Switzerland, The Core is not accepted by universities here. So he takes the following approach to get students to understand how truly valuable TOK can be, even in this scenario. “I always start asking them, ‘What is TOK worth?’ And they’ll say, ‘A point, one and a half points, three points max.’ And I will always say to them, “Well, what if I tell you that TOK is potentially seven and a half points? Because what you learn in there, if you’ve got the right mind to apply to everything, can add a point on to every single subject. It can turn 32’s, 33’s into 36’s, 37’s.”

The hidden value of the Extended Essay.

It can also befuddle many students how such an extended piece of work as the Extended Essay can be apparently worth so little. However, the value of the EE is many-fold: in the opportunity it gives for students to explore an area of their choice and passion; in practising demonstrating knowledge in a way that facilitates earning points in their final exams, and in preparing students for all the extended pieces of researched and referenced work that they will have to prepare at university.  

Kate Bradley, Head of Secondary at La Côte International School emphasises that this is a major strength of the Diploma Programme, that other programmes simply don’t prepare students for currently. “I think some parents say, ‘Oh, well, it’s only worth some bonus points. We’re not going to give our time to that.’ But it’s actually worth two years’ time into university when you’ve got a thesis to write, and you’ve got no idea how to do it. This, combined with TOK which explores ways of knowing and ways of thinking, which are completely different to anything in any other curriculum, the strength of the DP Core.”  

Both John and Joseph at ISZ agree that it’s a first attempt at a university level research paper and even if students have a hard time, or even if it’s an utter disaster, they’ve learned what they need to do to make it better next time, without it impacting their overall score too much.  

But as for the immediate benefits, it’s a joy for many teachers to see how many students just come alive throughout the Extended Essay, simply because of the freedom it gives them to explore a passion or interest that is theirs and even theirs alone. It is sometimes the aspect that brings about a joy of learning and confirms the direction that a student wishes to take in the future.  

Keith Sykes (Champittet) has fresh in his mind just one such student: “The opportunity the EE gave him to explore cultural identity in post-Soviet Central Asia – where he’s from – has been the thing that has changed his approach to his studies. He originally had a very fixed view, and I’d play Devil’s advocate and ask, ‘How do you know that?’ ‘But what would this group say about that?’ And from that he’s got a passion for it as well as a well-argued essay now. The best piece of work he’s ever done. It sparked such an interest, that on the back of this, he’s now organising a debate club in school as part of CAS and will be our guy to go to the Model United Nations.”  

CAS keeps you happy, healthy and motivated throughout your studies.

The example above, is typical of how Creativity, Action, Service is intended to be interwoven into a student’s learning experience. It shouldn’t be thought about as something extra that you HAVE to do, but rather an opportunity to integrate activities and passions you already have into the Diploma, or apply what you’re learning in a creative way or an activity that benefits the community.  

Kate Bradley (LCIS) says that’s where the magic of the Diploma Programme is. “If you break it down, it isn’t about the fact you could do Chemistry at High Level and Physics at High Level, because you could do that in any curriculum. It’s about the fact that you have to think about who you are in the world, and do you add value or do you take it away? And if we all thought that, the world would be a much better place”. She emphasises the Service aspect of CAS in particular helps many students to experience life outside their bubble which prepares them for living in a place that could be very different to all they’ve ever known, and see how societies function in ways they had never thought of.  

Not only does CAS serve to keep students balanced and physically and mentally healthy, but in a very practical sense, it helps them enhance their university applications. Andrew McLoughlin, Deputy Head of Curriculum at LCIS, sees this advantage of the IB DP as compared to A-Levels, for example: “In the A level, pupils really have to think about what they’re doing as extracurricular activities to enhance their personal statements, and letters of recommendation, references, what have you. However, the CAS is very much embedded in that holistic approach to ensure that they’ve got the Creativity, Action and Service covered.”

So, don’t let your child be fooled into thinking the Diploma Core isn’t worth a lot.

It is the heart and soul of the IB Diploma programme and its value goes far beyond the mere three points that it appears to weigh at first glance. If you have more questions about Theory of Knowledge, the Extended Essay, or the Creativity, Action, Service programme, get in touch with your school’s IB Diploma Coordinator and we’re certain they’ll be thrilled to tell you more about it and give you advice how to keep it at the centre of your child’s IB experience.

About the Author

Sandra Steiger – Academic Support Manager at TutorsPlus  

Sandra Steiger has over 10 years’ experience teaching English at various schools in Switzerland. She now works as Academic Support Manager at TutorsPlus. During her 6 years at the International School of Geneva, she was also the Service Learning programme Coordinator, International Award Supervisor, a Homeroom Mentor and Head of Year 8.  

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DP passing criteria

To achieve an IB Diploma, candidates must meet the Diploma Programme (DP) passing criteria.

Structure of the Diploma Programme

The DP curriculum is made up of six subject groups and the DP core, comprising theory of knowledge, creativity, activity, service, and the extended essay.

A candidate must take and complete the assessment components for six subjects, together with these core elements:

• theory of knowledge (TOK)
• the extended essay (EE)
• creativity, activity, service (CAS).

Candidates must take at least one course from each of the following subject groups:

• studies in language and literature
• language acquisition
• individuals and societies
• mathematics.

Students may take two courses in the studies in language and literature group (in different languages), in place of a language acquisition course.

A limited number of interdisciplinary courses count across subject groups. For example, environmental systems and societies simultaneously satisfy the individuals and societies group and the sciences group. The interdisciplinary courses allow students to flexibly choose which six subjects to take.

There are rules to prevent students from taking subjects whose content overlaps. The school’s DP coordinator can find this in the handbook of procedures for the DP.

How is the diploma outcome calculated?

The diploma points are calculated by adding together the grades achieved from each of the six subjects and the core. Candidates receive a grade of 1-7 for each subject and up to three points for the core elements (EE and TOK). Standard level (SL) and higher level (HL) subjects are equally valued in determining the candidate’s final points. To achieve a diploma, students must earn at least 24 points and have met the conditions listed below.

The highest score that a candidate can achieve is 45 points. The maximum points of 45 is obtained from 6 (subjects) times 7 (top grade) plus 3 points from the core.

Core points matrix

For TOK and the EE, candidates receive a grade from A to E. The third element of the core, CAS, does not receive a grade. Completion is assessed by the school.

Candidates can earn between zero and three points towards the overall diploma points. The number of points is calculated using the table below.

Example: According to the chart, a candidate who receives a B in theory of knowledge and a C in the extended essay, will be awarded 2 points from the core elements. 

Conditions for achieving the diploma

A candidate can only receive an IB Diploma if the following conditions are met.

• CAS requirements are met.
• The candidate has achieved at least 24 total points.
• A grade has been awarded in all subjects, TOK and the EE.
• A grade of at least a 2 has been awarded in all subjects.
• The candidate does not have a grade 2 awarded 3 or more times. 
• The candidate does not have a grade 3 awarded 4 or more times.
• The candidate has at least 12 points on HL subjects. (For candidates who register for four HL subjects, the three highest grades count).
• Candidates have at least 9 points on SL subjects. (Candidates who register for two SL subjects must be awarded at least 5 points at SL).

Bilingual diplomas

In addition to the usual diploma, a "bilingual diploma" can be awarded to a candidate who:

• completes two languages selected from group 1 with a grade 3 or higher in both.
• completes one of the subjects from group 3 or group 4 in a language that is not the same as the candidate's group 1 language. The candidate must get a grade 3 or higher in both the group 1 language and the subject from group 3 or 4.

Pilot subjects and interdisciplinary subjects can contribute to the award of a bilingual diploma provided the above conditions are met.

The following cannot contribute to the award of a bilingual diploma:

• an extended essay
• a school-based syllabus
• a subject taken by a candidate in addition to the six subjects for the diploma ("additional subjects").

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