The IB Extended Essay (EE) is a significant independent research project required for all Diploma Programme (DP) students. As the final submission deadline approaches, it is crucial to ensure that your EE meets all IB requirements and is formatted correctly. This is the ultimate checklist to ensure that your EE is ready for submission.

1. Formatting Requirements

Ensuring your EE adheres to the correct formatting guidelines is vital. According to the latest IB updates, your EE should include the following:

  • Word count: Maximum of 4,000 words (excluding abstract, references, and appendices)
  • Font: Recommended 12-point Times New Roman or Arial
  • Line spacing: Double-spaced for the main text
  • Margins: At least 1 inch (2.54 cm) on all sides
  • Page numbers: Top-right corner, numbered consecutively
  • Referencing style: Consistent citation style (APA, MLA, Chicago, or as required by your subject area)

Your cover page should have: 

  • Title of the essay
  • Research question
  • Subject area
  • Word count
  • Candidate session number

We have condensed the information in a clearer manner, but head to the International Baccalaureate website for more information: https://www.ibo.org/university-admission/latest-curriculum-updates/dp-extended-essay-updates/ 

2. EE Citation Guidelines

Use a consistent citation style throughout your essay and include a properly formatted bibliography. Some commonly used citation styles include:

  • APA: Common in sciences and social sciences
  • MLA: Preferred for literature and humanities
  • Chicago: Often used for history and business research
  • Harvard: Popular in various academic fields

Use citation management tools like EndNote to help you with that. Most of these tools have a free trial, so make use of that. 

3. IB Extended Essay Submission Checklist

According to the IB Organisation, here is a final checklist to ensure you do not miss anything out before your submissions. 

1. Research Question & Planning

✔ Clearly state your research question in the introduction
✔ Ensure the question is focused, specific, and analytical (not too broad or descriptive)
✔ Use credible sources (books, academic papers, reliable websites)
✔ Keep a research journal to track sources and ideas

2. Essay Structure & Content

✔ Introduction: Defines research question, scope, and importance
✔ Body Sections: Organized argument with supporting evidence
✔ Analysis & Discussion: Critical evaluation of findings (not just descriptive writing)
✔ Conclusion: Answers the research question and explains findings

3. Formatting & Word Count

✔ Max word count: 4,000 words (excluding bibliography, appendices)
✔ Font: Times New Roman / Arial, 12 pt size
✔ Spacing: Double-spaced with 1-inch margins
✔ Page numbers: Included on all pages
✔ Citation style: Consistent use of APA / MLA / Chicago

4. Academic Integrity & Citations

✔ All sources properly cited (in-text and in bibliography)
✔ No plagiarism—run through Turnitin or similar software
✔ Direct quotes used sparingly and properly referenced

5. Reflection & Viva Voce

✔ Completed 3 reflection sessions with supervisor
✔ Written thoughtful RPPF (Reflections on Planning and Progress Form)
✔ Prepared for the viva voce interview (final discussion with supervisor)

6. Final Submission Checks

✔ Grammar & spelling proofread (use Grammarly / Hemingway Editor)
✔ Ensure all figures, tables, and charts are labeled correctly
✔ Saved as a PDF file for submission
✔ Submitted before the deadline

4. Important Notes Before Submission

  • Reflection Sessions: Ensure you have completed all three reflection sessions with your supervisor, including the final Viva Voce interview.
  • Self-Assessment: Use the IB EE assessment criteria to evaluate your essay before submission.
  • Plagiarism Check: Run your EE through plagiarism detection software like Turnitin to ensure originality.
  • Final Proofreading: Have a teacher or peer review your EE for clarity and coherence. 

The IB Extended Essay is a challenging yet rewarding academic project. By following this checklist, ensuring proper formatting, and carefully reviewing your work, you can submit a well-structured and polished EE. Good luck!