The Ultimate Extended Essay Guide for 2027
Everything you need to know about the redesigned Extended Essay framework launching in 2027. Compare the new format with the previous version, understand the advantages, and discover which subject might be right for you.
Get planning templates, structure suggestions, and topic examples
Understanding the Extended Essay 2027
The International Baccalaureate Organization has redesigned the Extended Essay framework, with the new requirements launching in February 2025 and first assessments taking place in May 2027. This comprehensive guide explains what's new, how it compares to the previous format, and the advantages of the updated framework.
The Extended Essay remains a 4,000-word independent research project that allows students to investigate a topic of personal interest within an IB subject area. However, the 2027 framework introduces significant changes in assessment, format, and research methodology that better align with modern academic practices and university expectations.
What's New in Extended Essay 2027?
The redesigned framework introduces several key innovations that enhance the Extended Essay experience.
Digital Research Skills
Enhanced focus on digital research methodologies, source evaluation, and digital tools integration throughout the research process.
Multimodal Presentation
Ability to incorporate interactive elements, embedded media, digital annotations, and creative presentation formats beyond traditional text.
Enhanced Reflection
Dedicated reflection criterion worth 4 marks, emphasizing documentation of the research journey and metacognitive awareness.
Interdisciplinary Pathway
Formalized interdisciplinary research pathway, allowing students to combine multiple subject areas in their research.
Refined Assessment
30-mark system with clearer criteria weighting, providing more detailed feedback on specific components of the research process.
Digital Bibliography
Interactive bibliographies with digital annotations, allowing for more dynamic citation and source analysis.
Extended Essay: Old vs New Format
Compare the previous Extended Essay framework with the redesigned 2027 version.
Assessment Criteria
Format
Research Methods
Reflection Component
Research Pathways
Presentation
What Subject Should I Choose for My Extended Essay?
Answer a few questions to discover which Extended Essay subjects might be best suited to your interests, skills, and goals.
What type of topics interest you most?
Advantages of the 2027 Framework
The redesigned Extended Essay offers several benefits for students.
Better University Preparation
The emphasis on digital research skills and multimodal presentation aligns with modern university expectations, giving students a head start in higher education.
More Creative Expression
Digital formats allow students to incorporate multimedia elements, making their research more engaging and demonstrating skills beyond traditional writing.
Clearer Assessment Criteria
The 30-mark system with specific weightings provides clearer guidance on what examiners are looking for, helping students focus their efforts effectively.
Enhanced Reflection
The dedicated reflection criterion encourages students to document their learning journey and develop metacognitive awareness, valuable skills for lifelong learning.
Assessment Criteria & Requirements
Understanding how the Extended Essay 2027 is assessed and what's required.
Assessment Criteria (2027)
According to the IB Extended Essay Guide 2027
Research question, methods, structure
Subject-specific knowledge application
Analysis and coherent argumentation
Discussion of findings and evaluation
Research journey documentation
Extended Essay Requirements
Key requirements for the Extended Essay 2027
Word Count
4,000 words maximum
Timeframe
18 months (typically completed in Grade 12)
Research Pathways
Subject-Focused or Interdisciplinary
Diploma Points
Contributes up to 3 bonus points (combined with TOK)
Supervision
Required school supervisor + optional external support
Expert Extended Essay Support
Our experienced IB educators provide comprehensive Extended Essay guidance, from initial topic selection through final submission. We support students across all IB subject areas, helping them achieve their academic goals.
Whether you're in the United States, Canada, UAE, Hong Kong, Singapore, or anywhere else in the world, our online platform makes expert Extended Essay support accessible to all IB students.
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about the Extended Essay 2027 framework
When does the new Extended Essay 2027 framework take effect?
What are the main differences between the old and new Extended Essay format?
How is the Extended Essay 2027 assessed?
What is the digital format for Extended Essay 2027?
Can I still write a traditional written Extended Essay?
What are the two research pathways in Extended Essay 2027?
How long should my Extended Essay be?
What subjects can I write my Extended Essay in?
How important is the reflection component in Extended Essay 2027?
Do I need a supervisor for my Extended Essay?
How can Bespoke Learning help with my Extended Essay?
What's the difference between Extended Essay and Internal Assessment?
Expert Extended Essay Support Worldwide
Our online platform makes expert Extended Essay guidance accessible to IB students across the globe, with specialized support for key international education hubs.
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Online tutoring available 24/7 - Our flexible scheduling accommodates all time zones, making expert Extended Essay support accessible whether you're in New York, Toronto, Dubai, Hong Kong, or Singapore.
Get Your Free Extended Essay Starter Kit
Download our comprehensive starter kit with planning templates, structure suggestions, curated topic examples, and step-by-step guidance for the Extended Essay 2027. Perfect for IB students in the United States, Canada, UAE, Hong Kong, Singapore, and worldwide.
Planning Templates
Structured templates for research planning and timeline management
Topic Examples
Curated examples across all IB subject areas
Structure Guide
Step-by-step guidance for the 2027 framework
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