The simple answer is: No, you cannot pass the full IB Diploma without completing the Extended Essay (EE). The EE is one of the three core components of the IB Diploma Programme, along with Theory of Knowledge (TOK) and Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS). Failing to submit the EE, or earning a failing grade on it, means you will not be awarded the IB Diploma, no matter how strong your subject scores are.
Why the EE Is Mandatory
- The Extended Essay is a compulsory independent research project of up to 4,000 words. Every full diploma candidate must submit it to be eligible for the IB Diploma.
- It is designed to develop essential skills like critical thinking, independent research, and academic writing—skills that universities highly value.
What Happens If You Don’t Complete the EE?
- If you don’t submit the EE, you will not receive the IB Diploma.
- If you submit an EE but receive an E grade, and/or an E in TOK, you automatically fail the diploma. You must earn at least a D grade or higher in both TOK and EE to pass the core requirement.
- While you won’t receive the full IB Diploma, you can still earn IB Course Certificates for the individual subjects you have passed.
Important IB Diploma Requirements Involving the EE
- A D grade or better in both TOK and EE is required.
- Failing to submit or earning an E in either component means automatic disqualification from receiving the diploma.
- The EE contributes to up to 3 bonus points for the diploma, depending on how it is combined with your TOK grade.
Summary
- The EE is mandatory for earning the IB Diploma.
- No EE = no diploma, regardless of subject scores.
- Completing the EE successfully is key to passing the core and earning bonus points.
- Students who fail the EE may still earn IB Course Certificates, but this is not the same as the full diploma.
FAQ: IB Extended Essay and Diploma Pass Requirements
Can I submit a blank EE just to meet the requirement?
No. Submitting incomplete or blank work will likely earn an E, which disqualifies you from the diploma. The EE must meet basic criteria to be graded satisfactorily.
What if I fail the EE but pass all my subjects?
You will not earn the full diploma but will receive Course Certificates for your passed subjects.
Can I redo the EE if I fail it?
Typically, yes. Your school may allow you to resubmit in the next exam session to try to earn the diploma.
How much does the EE contribute to my diploma?
The EE combines with TOK to offer up to 3 bonus points, which can help boost your final IB score.
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