extended essay business management grade boundaries

IB Extended Essay: Assessment Criteria

• Research Questions
• Past Essays
• Notes & Outlines
• Works Cited Page
• In-Text Citations
• Assessment Criteria
• Reflections
• Supervisor Info
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Score Descriptors for each Criterion:

• A - Focus and Method
• B - Knowledge and Understanding
• C - Critical Thinking
• D - Presentation
• E - Engagement

Printable: Full Rubric  for all subjects

To view details for your SUBJECT, open the correct page below.

• Choose "Interpreting the EE Assessment Criteria" on the sidebar to see how to score well in YOUR subject area

Language & literature (language A)

Language acquisition (language B)

Mathematics

Visual Arts

World Studies

Business Management

Grade Boundaries

What's Expected?

• A: Focus/Method
• B: Knowledge
• C: Critical Thinking
• D: Presentation
• E: Engagement
• A: Focus and Method (6 marks)
• B: Knowledge and Understanding (6 marks)
• C: Critical Thinking (12 marks)
• D: Presentation (4 marks)
• E: Engagement (6 marks)
• Total marks possible: 34 (see grade boundaries below)
• Printable:  Full Rubric
• Printable: A3 size with details
• Printable:  Details for each criterion , via the Oxford guide

Criterion A:  Focus and Method (6 points)

What It Means:   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.

Questions to ask:  

• Does this essay meet the requirements for the subject for which you are registering it?
• Is your research question stated as a question?
• Have you explained how your research question relates to the subject that you selected for the extended essay?
• Have you given an insight into why your area of study is important?
• Is your research question feasible within the scope of the task? Could your research question be “answered” or it is too vague?
• Did you refer to your research question throughout the essay (not only in the introduction and conclusion)?
• Did you explain why you selected your methodology?
• Are there other possible methods that could be used or applied to answer your research question? How might this change the direction of your research?
• If you stated a particular methodology in the introduction of your essay, or specific sources, have you used them?
• Are there any references listed in the bibliography that were not directly cited in the text?

(Source: Susan Trower, via West Sound Academy)

Criterion B:  Knowledge and Understanding (6 points)

What It Means:   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 this knowledge and understanding is demonstrated through the use of appropriate terminology and concepts.

• Have you explained how your research question relates to a specific subject you selected for the extended essay?
• Have you used relevant terminology and concepts throughout your essay as they relate to your particular area of research?
• Is it clear that the sources you are using are relevant and appropriate to your research question?
• Do you have a range of sources, or have you only relied on one particular type, for example internet sources?
• Is there a reason why you might not have a range? Is this justified?

(Source: Oxford EE manual, p. 110)

Criterion C:  Critical Thinking (12 points)

What It Means:   This criterion assesses the extent to which critical thinking skills have been used to analyze and evaluate the research undertaken.

• Have you made links between your results and data collected and your research question?
• If you included data or information that is not directly related to your research question have you explained its importance?
• Are your conclusions supported by your data?
• If you found unexpected information or data have you discussed its importance?
• Have you provided a critical evaluation of the methods you selected?
• Have you considered the reliability of your sources (peer-reviewed journals, internet, and so on)?
• Have you mentioned and evaluated the significance of possible errors that may have occurred in your research?
• Are all your suggestions of errors or improvements relevant?
• Have you evaluated your research question?
• Have you compared your results or findings with any other sources?
• Is there an argument that is clear and easy to follow and directly linked to answering your research question, and which is supported by evidence? Are there other possible methods that could be used or applied to answer your research question? How might this change the direction of your research?

(Source: Oxford EE Manual p. 111)

Handy Links:

• Presentation One Pager  via Catalina Bordoy
• Presentation Checklist
• Sample Title page   (see below - top half of the page)

Criterion D:  Presentation ( 4 points)

What It Means:   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.

• Have you read and understood the presentation requirements of the extended essay?
• Have you chosen a font that will be easy for examiners to read on-screen?
• Is your essay double-spaced and size 12 font?
• Are the title and research question mentioned on the cover page?
• Are all pages numbered?
• Have you prepared a correct table of contents?
• Do the page numbers in the table of contents match the page numbers in the text?
• Is your essay subdivided into correct sub-sections, if this is applicable to the subject?
• Are all figures and tables properly numbered and labelled?
• Does your bibliography contain only the sources cited in the text?
• Did you use the same reference system throughout the essay?
• Does the essay have less than 4,000 words?
• Is all the material presented in the appendices relevant and necessary?
• Have you proofread the text for spelling or grammar errors?

Criterion E: Engagement

• Three reflections (best after meeting with your supervisor)
• 500 words TOTAL (100 + 150 + 250?)
• Reflections are done in Managebac on your Reflection space
• See the "Reflections" tab above for prompts to write about

(Source: Oxford EE Manual p.135)

(Source: Oxford EE Manual p.133)

• Sample Reflections
• Full chapter on Reflections from the Oxford Guide

Criterion E:  Engagement (6 points)

What It Means:   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, after considering the student’s RPPF (Reflections on planning and progress form).

• Have you demonstrated your engagement with your research topic and the research process?
• Have you highlighted challenges you faced and how you overcame them?
• Will the examiner get a sense of your intellectual and skills development?
• Will the examiner get a sense of your creativity and intellectual initiative?
• For prompts to deepen your reflections, go  here  and then to the bottom of the page
• Presentation Quick Guide
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• Last Updated: Apr 9, 2024 9:39 AM
• URL: https://sis-cn.libguides.com/ExtendedEssay

• Support Sites

Extended Essay Support Site

Grade boundaries.

After marks are awarded for all five assessment criteria , they are converted into letter grades using 'grade boundaries'. Grade boundaries are not subject specific. In theory these boundaries can change from year to year. In practice they usually stay the same. The following boundaries can be applied to sample Extended Essays. They can also be used as a tool to determine a candidate's 'predicted grade'. Please note, however, that the 'official' boundaries are not published by the IB until after each exam session.

Choose Your Test

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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IB Business Management Extended Essay: The Complete Guide

by  Antony W

April 12, 2024

The extended essay in business management requires you to demonstrate your ability to analyze commercial activities at different economy levels.

A business management extended essay requires you to choose a topic, develop a research question, conduct in-depth research, and write a critically analyzed argument with credible data and evidence.

In this guide, we look at the research question, structure, assessment criteria, grade descriptors, and tips you can use to write a high quality EE report in business management.

Research Question

An extended essay research question is important because the entire business management report hinges on it.

A good RQ for this report should align with the scope, concepts and techniques, research materials, usefulness and application, and engagement in the subject.

1. Focus on the Scope of the Topic

Scope refers to the breadth of the topic you choose.

Don’t select a topic that lacks sufficient materials to cover the 4,000 words limit. Instead, select a highly specific business management EE topic , one for which you can find sufficient information to write a more comprehensive report.

Then come up with a research question that aligns with it.

2. Apply Business Concepts and Techniques

Develop a research question for which you can apply business analysis methods, terminologies, and techniques you’ve learned in the classroom.

Ensure the question has a tight link to the syllabus while allowing you to draw direct link to theoretical concepts taught in the business management course.

Your task here isn’t to show off your knowledge. Your teacher expects you to prove you understand and can apply what you’ve learned. 

3. Ensure Availability of Research Materials

Ignore a research question that lacks depth of materials and knowledge base to warrant a 4,000-word treatment.

If you can’t access highly relevant records or useful research data for the question, look for a different one.

4. Make Your RQ Useful and Applicable

Ensure your RQ, or issue, is relevant and applicable to the current business environment.

You must draw your inspiration only from journals and newspapers that give you current ideas.

5. Make Your Research Question Engaging

Don’t develop a research issue based only on the merit of ease and personal interest.

Focus on something you’ve actually investigated or have always wanted to research. By doing so, you’ll have an easy time fulfilling the engagement part of the grading criteria.

IB Business Management Extended Essay Structure

The structure of a business management extended essay features a title page, table of contents, introduction, methodology, body, conclusion, and bibliography.

The title page doesn’t contribute to the overall world count of the EE. However, the title page is an import part of the structure because it includes the following significant information:

• Title: It should not be a question but a clear, summarized statement of the research question.
• Research Question: Write the RQ in this part.
• Subject: The subject should be “Business Management”.
• Word Count: Indicate the number of words in your essay.

Don’t write your name, candidate name, date, or school name on the title page, as they’re no longer part of the new structure.

Table of Content

Table of contents is also not part of the word count, but it’s an essential part of the assignment. Include all the parts of your business management EE in this section with their respective page numbers.

Introduction (About 250 Words)

Your introduction should provide a clear context for your research question.

• Describe why your research is interesting, as well as why it’s important to your audience.
• Ensure your audience understands what you’ll be exploring, how you intend to explore your research question, and how valuable your research is to them.

Methodology (About 350 Words)

Divide the methodology in two parts, one for the source and one the other one for the tools. Also, ensure you mention the limitations and drawbacks of these sources and tools.

• Sources: State and explain the primary and secondary sources of your research. The sources can include news articles, company annual reports, magazine articles, and encyclopedia. Include the benefits and drawback of each source, keeping in mind that a majority of your research should come from secondary sources.
• Tools: State the tools you’ll use for analysis, discussion, and evaluation. Explain why you’re going to use these tools and how relevant they’re to your business management assignment. Mention any changes to your toolset should there be any, along with an explanation on why such changes were necessary.

Main Body (About 2800 Words)

The main body of the business management extended essay is at most 2,800 words long. It’s in this section that you share your research, analysis, discussion, and evaluation.

Divide the main body into two sections, one for the tools and the other for your research:

• Tools: Show your teacher you know how to do what you’ve learned in a business management class.
• Research: Make an impression with your research, even if it goes beyond what you’ve learned in the classroom.

Each paragraph should relate to the research question. Therefore, the analysis, discussion, and evaluation have to include relevant tools and research.

The conclusion ties everything together to show what you’ve done to answer your research question. Mention the limitation of your research and explain any other unresolved question.

However, the conclusion of your EE shouldn’t introduce new ideas (ideas you haven’t addressed in the body parts of the essay. 

Bibliography

Aim for 3 or 4 pages of sources for the bibliography. However, keep in mind that the bibliography isn’t part of your word count.

Business Management EE Rubric

IB evaluates business management extended essays based on the following 5 criteria:

• Focus and method 
• Knowledge and understanding
• Critical thinking
• Presentation

The grades range from A to E, with the top grade having a maximum of 34 points and anything worse than a C being a fail.

While the professional judgment of selected instructors can affect your grades, these descriptors used to determine the actual grade that you get in the end.

Criterion A: Focus and Method 

Criterion A examines how unique, focused, intelligent, and analytical you’re when using techniques learned in the course and outside the classroom.

Evaluators expect you to demonstrate your scholastic ability to apply theories in practical situations, come up with answers to you research issue, and offer a possible solution to the problem at hand.

To score a 6 for focus and method:

• Develop a clear, focused research question.
• Use secondary sources for topic research.
• Support your arguments with relevant, recent, and credible evidence or data.
• Develop a well-organized, logical methodology leading up to your conclusions. 

Criteria B: Knowledge and Understanding

Knowledge and understanding focuses on not only how much you’ve learned in the course but also how well you can apply the concepts taught in class to the real world.

To show a business-oriented thinking, use business terminologies.

You can use abstract concepts in the paper, but you should also add thorough explanation your process using a simple language that readers can understand.

Diagrams and charts can help explain concepts that would be hard to explain in words, but it’s important to explain each so that your ideas are clear.

As you explain business trends linked to your research topic, ensure your ideas follow an analytical process while remaining grounded in the case you’re exploring.

Criteria C: Critical Thinking

To score high on this criterion, show a unique application of business concepts, technique, theories, and methods to analyze the problem under investigation.

• Back your argument with in-depth, credible research.
• Be self-critical, making sure you evaluate the accuracy and reliability of your sources.
• Comment on the gaps or weaknesses your arguments don’t solve and suggest what you think researchers can do to solve these issues.
• Use the analytical techniques learned in the course to follow up every point you make in your business management extended essay.

Criterion D: Presentation

The presentation criterion looks at how well you organize and communicate your ideas. The common academic standards evaluated include:

• A clear and easy to understand language
• Clearly labeled charts, graphs, figures, and images
• A well-structured essay with headings and subheadings

Criterion E: Engagement

Criterion E evaluates how you engage with the research topic based on the subject’s intersection in your life.

Avoid using a third-person perspective because doing so will earn you few points.

Quite instances of personal interactions instead, and show that the research question you choose is relevant to you and others.

Extended Essay Grade Descriptors

The following are the grade descriptors used for IB Business Management Extended Essay:

Descriptor A

To get an A, you must have a clear research question, conduct relevant research, and demonstrate expert knowledge and understanding of the materials taught in the classroom.

Also, show a comprehensive engagement to and explanation of the problem.

Your extended essay in business management should feature a logical, structural layout, include key reflections, and have relevant, accurate conclusions.

Descriptor B

To score a B, you need to demonstrate good knowledge of research, appropriate research skill, and a reasonable application of the business concepts and techniques learned in the classroom.

Also, offer a synthesis of an effective research question, a satisfactory presentation, and conclusion supported by evidence presented in the IB business management extended essay.

Descriptor C

Students who score a C for their extended essay in business management are those who display some knowledge and understanding of the key concepts involved, including reasonable application of the topic.

However, the essay fails to synthesize the research question, it offers descriptive instead of an evaluative discussion, there are errors in the arguments use, and structure used is poor.

Descriptor D

Business management extended essays that score a D reflect poor research that lead to a general focus.

Although the essay shows some relevant knowledge of the topic, the content is full of discrepancies and inaccuracies.

In addition to the lack of a logical structure and coherent readability, the essay lacks a critical evaluation of the topic and the conclusions are inconsistent.

Descriptor E

An E is the grade awarded to an unclear essay with an unsystematic approach. The essay lacks a clear focus because it portrays limited knowledge of key concept, not to mention it has an inconsistent analysis and an inaccurate conclusion.

Tips to Write a Compelling IB Business Management Extended Essay

1.  Choose Your Research Question

The research question for your IB Business Management Extended essay should not be practical or actionable.

This is applicable only in the Internal Assessment.

Also, make your research question focused, not too broad and not to narrow. While you should be asking relatively simple questions, make sure they aren’t too obvious.

2.  Formatting Your Work

Your IB teacher will also look into how you format your work. So it’s important to make sure you get this right from the start.

Use the Times New Roman font type and 12-point font size. Double space your work and make sure every page has a number.

3.  Citing Sources

You need to cite all the sources you use in writing your IB Business Management Extended Essay. You can use any citation format, but it’s preferable to MLA.

And don’t worry if you find citing sources somewhat confusing. Our  guide on sources and citation   should be enough to point you in the right direction.

4. Sticking to the Word Count

Your piece of research should not exceed  4,000 words.

Even if you feel like you have a lot to write to  make your ideas clear ,  you should trim down during revision if your work is more than 4,000 words already.

5. Write a Great Reflection

The   reflection   for your IB Business Management Extended essay is not only important as the other parts of the assignment.

It’s also about 18% of the total grade. So you should give it your best shot.

6. Edit Your Work Thoroughly

Reading a 4,000-word IB Business Management Extended Essay after spending so many hours writing it can be rather boring and much less time consuming.

But doing so is the only way to make sure your essay is good enough for submission and ready for marking.

• Look out for grammar and spelling mistakes and fix them. Use a tool such as Grammarly to make your work easier
• Rewrite longer sentences, making them short and concise.
• Don’t hesitate to trim down word count in a sentence if you can say the same thing but in fewer words
• Do parts of your essay sound redundant? Delete them, regardless of where they appear in the essay
• Have you used a source you haven’t cited? Go back and fix the error

Editing your work thoroughly isn’t the fun part of working on an IB Business Management Extended Essay. However, it goes a long way to make your essay read better.

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Extended essay

The extended essay is an independent, self-directed piece of research, finishing with a 4,000-word paper.

One component of the International Baccalaureate® (IB) Diploma Programme (DP) core, the extended essay is mandatory for all students.

Read about the extended essay  in greater detail.

You can also read about how the IB sets deadlines for the extended essay , find examples of extended essay titles from previous DP students and learn about the world studies extended essay .

Learn more about the extended essay in a DP workshop for teachers . 

DP subject briefs

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Our DP subject briefs—for both standard and higher level—contain information about core requirements, aims and assessment.

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IB Extended Essay Grade Boundaries

At IB Elite Academy, we provide trusted sources for comprehensive information and guidance on the International Baccalaureate (IB) program. In this article, we will delve into the topic of IB Extended Essay grade boundaries, shedding light on their significance and how they influence your overall score. With our expert insights and resources, we aim to empower IB students like you to achieve excellence in your IB Extended Essay and maximize your academic potential.

Table of Contents

Understanding IB Extended Essay Grade Boundaries:

The IB Extended Essay is a vital component of the IB DP (International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme,) offering IB DP students the opportunity to delve into a topic of their interest and demonstrate independent research skills. To ensure fair and consistent assessment, the IB sets grade boundaries each year.

IB Extended Essay grade boundaries establish the minimum scores required to achieve a specific grade. These boundaries are determined by analyzing statistical data from previous years, guaranteeing equity and uniformity in the grading process. It is important to note that grade boundaries may vary slightly across different subject areas due to unique assessment criteria.

Factors that Influence IB Extended Essay Grade Boundaries:

• Cohort Performance: The overall performance of students globally can influence grade boundaries. If a particular year’s cohort demonstrates exceptional or challenging performance, grade boundaries may be adjusted accordingly.
• Subject Popularity: The number of students selecting a specific subject for their Extended Essay can impact grade boundaries. Subjects with larger cohorts may have stricter boundaries due to increased competition.
• Examiner Expertise: The expertise and experience of IB examiners play a crucial role in establishing grade boundaries. Their subject knowledge and understanding contribute to accurate and fair evaluations.

Maximizing Your Extended Essay Score:

To achieve your desired grade in the Extended Essay, focus on the following aspects:

• Choosing a Research Question : Select a well-defined research question that aligns with your subject area. A clear and focused question enables you to explore your topic effectively.
• Thorough Research and Analysis: Conduct extensive research using diverse and credible sources. Demonstrate a deep understanding of your topic by critically analyzing the information and presenting well-supported arguments.
• Structure and Organization: Develop a logical structure for your essay with a clear introduction, coherent body paragraphs, and a concise conclusion. Utilize headings and subheadings to enhance clarity and readability.
• Effective Use of Evidence: Support your arguments with relevant evidence and examples from your research. Showcase your ability to synthesize information and present a well-rounded perspective.
• Reflective Thinking: Engage in reflective thinking throughout your Extended Essay. Demonstrate self-awareness, evaluate your research process, and highlight any limitations or alternative viewpoints.

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Everything you need to know about IB Business Management Extended Essay

• January 27, 2023
• IB Extended Essay (EE)

Table of Contents

• 1 Business Management Extended Essay
• 2 Formulating an Extended Essay Title and Research Question
• 3.1 1) Choose a topic which interested and engages you 
• 3.2 2) Understand the EE requirements 
• 3.3 3) Create a research question and write an outline 
• 3.4 4) “Choosing” a supervisor 
• 3.5 5) The EE is not an Internal Assessment 
• 3.6 6) Achieving the A grade
• 3.7 7) Analyse and Evaluate 
• 3.8 8) Meet deadlines 
• 3.9 9) Presentation and Referencing 
• 3.10 10) Reflect, Reflect, Reflect 
• 4.1 The following are not included in the word limit: 
• 4.2 The following style of presentation: 
• 4.3 Cover Page should contain the following information: 
• 4.4 Grade Boundaries:
• 4.5 Assessment Criteria:
• 4.6 Criterion A – Focus and Method 
• 4.7 Criterion B – Knowledge and Understanding 
• 4.8 Criterion C – Critical Thinking 
• 4.9 Criterion D – Formal Presentation 
• 4.10 Criterion E – Engagement
• 5 Tools, Techniques and Theories for the Extended Essay 
• 6 Tools, Techniques and Theories beyond the IB BM Syllabus 
• 7 Research Question Examples – 

Business Management Extended Essay

The Extended Essay is a core element of the IB Diploma Programme . It provides students with an opportunity to carry out in-depth research in an area of personal interest. It required around 40 hours of work by the student. The formal requirements of the Extended Essay, such as the formulation of an appropriate research question, writing the essay within the 4,000 word limit, and including proper citation and referencing throughout the essay. 500 words for the RPPF (Reflections on Planning and Progress Form). There are three compulsory reflection sessions, ending with a viva voce. The business management extended essay must be firmly based on accepted Business Management theory. It required application of theory, tools and techniques to produce a coherent and structured essay. It involves broad and detailed research using a range of secondary sources. 

Formulating an Extended Essay Title and Research Question

All extended essays require both a title and a research question. The title should be a clear and focused summative statement that provides the reader with an indication of the research topic. The research question must be phrased as a probing question, i.e. one that demands inquiry and is worthy of investigation. The research question should allow students to show and use a variety of analytical tools, theories and techniques. This is often supported by statistical data to assist discussion and evaluation. 

When selecting your topic and research question, keep the following in mind: 

• Choose a subject and topic that interests you 
• Construct a research question that is worth of study and has academic rigour 
• Ensure there are sufficient secondary resources and materials to address the research question. 
• Ensure the topic is neither too narrow nor too broad 

Tips for writing Business Management Extended Essay 

1) choose a topic which interested and engages you  .

Read the BM syllabus and identify those areas which interest you most. For example, consider how your interests or hobbies in real life can be linked to business management. Read about the topic area and try to find relevant information to support your work. 

2) Understand the EE requirements  

There are four important documents you need to read before starting your extended essay – The general assessment criteria, subject specific assessment criteria, examiner report, and an example of an excellent A graded business management extended essay. As this will show clearly what needs to be done to score high. 

3) Create a research question and write an outline  

The research question can be forward looking. Your outline, of around 400 words in length, should include the possible research question. Explain why you are interested in this topic and why it is important to study as a BM student. 

4) “Choosing” a supervisor 

The supervisor will be someone who teaches you. By preparing a concise outline and having a reasonable understanding of the EE will encourage the supervisor that your EE journey will be successful. The supervisor can help focus the research question more clearly if need be. All students need to impress supervisors that they will work diligently to undertake background reading on relevant theories and will be fully committed to the EE process.

5) The EE is not an Internal Assessment 

The Higher Level Business Management IA is based on primary research. An A grade for the Extended Essay in Business Management can be awarded without doing any primary research. Both IA and EE should include tools with appropriate explanation of the content or their significance. 

As the EE is an academic piece of work, the examiner will positively mark those who go beyond what is on the syllabus, such as Porter’s Five Forces or Blue Ocean Strategy. Another approach by astute students is to relate their essay through all the CUEGIS concepts. The EE research question for most students should require analysis and evaluation of a strategic issue for an organisation which can be linked  to these key concepts. 

6) Achieving the A grade

The EE requires a lot of background reading as its success depends on secondary research.  Schools will provide students with a sufficient time frame to conduct the necessary reading of academic journals and sources. Start reading as soon as your supervisor has agreed to the research question. Identify possible secondary sources which provide balance.

The role of the school librarian is especially important as they show students how to use online databases, how to cite and reference appropriately. Do not rely on the Internet for all your sources. 

7) Analyse and Evaluate  

Assessment Criterion C is titled “Critical Thinking” and is marked out of 12. Many students tend to describe rather than analyse and evaluate. To show evidence of critical thinking, students should use phrases like “In the short (or long) term…” and “the most significant factor is… because…”. This enables you to prioritise issues which you think are most important in addressing the research question. For all essays, the arguments should be balanced (for and against) and allow the research question to be answered at the end in a considered way.

8) Meet deadlines  

Schools create deadlines for students’ own good! Although the EE takes about 6 to 8 months to complete, by the time students identify a question and do the final reflection (viva voce), this process could be closer to one year. Students should set aside time between deadlines so they can clearly think through what needs to be completed and then progress with the writing process.

Use the summer holidays wisely. Students may get up to 2 months break. Dedicate time spread over several weeks to re-read your EE and to make edits. This will help you to make steady progress and meet the EE deadlines in the following academic year.

9) Presentation and Referencing 

Too often, the issue is not the quality of the content of the essay, but marks are lost because of poor presentation and referencing. Assessment Criteria D (Presentation) is worth 4 marks. 

The six required elements of the EE: 

Title Page 

• Title of the essay 
• Research Question 
• Subject (i.e. Business Management) 
• Word Count 
• Candidate Code 
• Contents Page 
• Introduction 

Body of the essay 

• Conclusion 

References and Bibliography

Format for the EE includes: 

• Size 12 font, Arial or Times New Roman recommended 
• Double Spacing 
• Page numbering 
• File size no larger than 10MB

The Word Count includes: 

• Quotations 

Clearly reference using a recognized system, such as APA or MLA.  As the EE is based on secondary research, ensure you cite and referencing throughout the essay.If you use diagrams, ensure these are labelled clearly and make sure you explain them in the context of your research question. 

10) Reflect, Reflect, Reflect 

Reflections are worth 6 marks. There are three formal reflection sessions held between the EE supervisor and students:

• The first reflection happens during the beginning stages of the EE, where the student describes how they will approach the essay (methodology) and possible concerns.
• The interim reflection is analytical and happens around the middle of the EE process. Students comment on what they are doing well, where they are struggling and how they will address problems.
• The final reflection, called the viva voce, is evaluative and takes place after the EE is completed. Students comment on the success of the essay and their learning journey.

In the reflection, give specific examples about the EE, rather than writing generally. Write about the focus of the research question in the first reflection, not your interest in BM or desire to use the EE as a pathway to studying BM at university. The total length of the three reflections is 500 words; the examiner will not read beyond this point.  Each of the three reflections should be around 160 words, perhaps a little more for the final reflection.

Note the following Key Points while writing the Extended Essay – 

The following are not included in the word limit: .

• Acknowledgements 
• Charts, Diagrams, Annotated Illustrations 
• Tables (of data, but not text or analysis) 
• Calculations, Equations or Formulae 
• References, Citations, Bibliography 
• Footnotes or Endnotes 
• Appendices 

The following style of presentation: 

• Font Style – Times New Roman or Arial 
• Font Size – 12 
• Line Spacing – Double
• Numbered Pages 

Cover Page should contain the following information: 

• Subject – Business Management Extended Essay
• Session – May 2023

Grade Boundaries:

Assessment criteria:, criterion a – focus and method .

The research question is clearly stated and focused.

• The research question is clear and addresses an issue of research that is appropriately connected to the discussion in the essay.

The methodology of the research is complete.

• An appropriate range of relevant source(s) and/or method(s) has been selected in relation to the topic and research question.
• There is evidence of effective and informed selection of sources and/or methods.

Criterion B – Knowledge and Understanding 

Knowledge and understanding are excellent.

• The application of source materials is clearly relevant and appropriate to the research question.
• Knowledge of the topic/discipline(s)/issue is clear and coherent and sources are used effectively and with understanding.

Use of terminology and concepts is good.

• The use of subject-specific terminology and concepts is accurate and consistent, demonstrating effective knowledge and understanding.

Criterion C – Critical Thinking 

The research is excellent.

• The research is appropriate to the research question and its application to support the argument is consistently relevant.

Analysis is excellent.

• The research is analysed effectively and clearly focused on the research question; the inclusion of less relevant research does not significantly detract from the quality of the overall analysis.
• Conclusions to individual points of analysis are effectively supported by the evidence.

Discussion / evaluation is excellent.

• An effective and focused reasoned argument is developed from the research with a conclusion reflective of the evidence presented.
• This reasoned argument is well structured and coherent; any minor inconsistencies do not hinder the strength of the overall argument or the final or summative conclusion.
• The research has been critically evaluated.

Criterion D – Formal Presentation 

Presentation is good.

• The structure of the essay clearly is appropriate in terms of the expected conventions for the topic, the argument and subject in which the essay is registered.
• Layout considerations are present and applied correctly.
• The structure and layout support the reading, understanding and evaluation of the extended essay.

Criterion E – Engagement

Engagement is excellent.

• Reflections on decision-making and planning are evaluative and include reference to the student’s capacity to consider actions and ideas in response to challenges experienced in the research process.
• These reflections communicate a high degree of intellectual and personal engagement with the research focus and process of research, demonstrating authenticity, intellectual initiative and / or creative approach in the student voice.

The Extended Essay incorporates all five ATL skills, which are essential at various stages of completing the EE. 

• Students should work closely with their supervisor, thus developing their own communication skills when discussing their ideas and reflections.
• This also provides students with opportunities to develop valuable social skills.
• The student’s self-management skills are needed to conduct the research and to complete the essay in an academic and independent way.
• To succeed in the EE, students must demonstrate their ability to think critically about the research, methodology, findings, and conclusions.
• The EE require students to carry out extensive secondary research, including the use of primary research where appropriate

Students have opportunities to demonstrate their level of engagement with the EE process. These ATL skills are life-long skills that students will use and develop well beyond the IB Diploma Programme.

Tools, Techniques and Theories for the Extended Essay 

• 1.3 – Ansoff Matrix 
• 1.3 – SWOT Analysis 
• 1.4 – Stakeholders analysis
• 1.5 – STEEPLE analysis
• 1.7 – Decision Tree 
• 1.7 – Fishbone Diagram 
• 1.7 – Force Field Analysis 
• 1.7 – Gantt Chart 
• 2.4 – Motivation  
• 2.5 – Organisational culture
• 3.3 – Break-even Analysis 
• 3.4 – Final Accounts 
• 3.5 – Profitability and Liquidity Ratio Analysis 
• 3.6 – Efficiency Ratio Analysis
•  3.7 – Cash Flow Forecasts 
• 3.8 – Investment Appraisal 
• 3.9 – Budgets
• 4.2 – Position Maps 
• 4.3 – Sales Forecasting 
• 4.5 – BCG Matrix 
• 5.1 – The Triple Bottom Line 
• 5.5 – Cost to Make vs. Cost to Buy 
• 5.6 – Research and Development 

Tools, Techniques and Theories beyond the IB BM Syllabus 

• Blue Ocean Strategy 
• Porter’s Five Forces Analysis 
• Strategic Drift Theory 
• Porter’s Generic Strategies 
• Thomas-Kilmann’s Conflict Instrument 
• Kotter and Schlesinger’s Change Management model 
• Greiner’s Growth Model 
• Bowman’s Strategic Clock 
• Charles Handy 

Research Question Examples – 

• Which promotional strategy has proved most effective in enabling Tata Coffee to gain market share in Mumbai in the past three years?
• To what extent has the product extension strategy of Apple for its Apple TV service helped the company to remain competitive in Hong Kong?
• How effective has McDonald’s franchise growth strategy been in improving its market share in Malaga, southern Spain?
• To what extent has Starbucks’ use of social media marketing (SMM) increased its brand awareness in Singapore?
• To what extent has Amazon’s acquisition of Souq.com contributed to its growth in Saudi Arabia?
• To what extent has McDonald’s Ronald McDonald House Charities philanthropy programme motivated the company’s workforce in Chicago, Illinois?
• To what extent has Nike’s above the line marketing strategies contributed to the company’s overall profitability?
• To what extent is Ryanair’s corporate success in the European low-cost airline industry attributed to its “no-frills” pricing strategy?

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Extended essay Sailing to Success: How to Meet the IB EE Grading Criteria?

Luke MacQuoid

Are you tired of writing essays that no one reads, let alone cares about? Fear not, dear reader, for I bring you tidings of great joy – the IB extended essay, and in this same article, we will focus on IB EE rubric and assessment criteria! 

Yes, it’s longer, more complex , and arguably more torturous than any other essay you’ve ever written, but fear not, for it’s also the one that will earn you that precious IB diploma.

The IB extended essay is a mandatory research paper that all IB diploma candidates must complete in order to graduate. It’s a chance for you to dive deep into a topic that you’re passionate about, and to demonstrate your ability to conduct independent research and analysis.

Importance of understanding the grading criteria

But here’s the catch – the extended essay isn’t just any old research paper. It’s graded according to a strict set of criteria provided by IBO, and these criteria can make or break your chances of getting a good grade. 

In other words, you can’t just phone it in and hope for the best. If you want to succeed, you need to select appropriate IB EE subject and understand the grading criteria like the back of your hand. But fear not; I’m here to guide you through this treacherous journey.

IB Extended Essay Rubric: Decoding the Mysteries of Grading

In this part, I’ll share an overview of the grading system, also known as the IB extended essay rubric. Let’s begin.

Ah, the dreaded rubric – the document that strikes fear into the hearts of even the bravest IB students. But fear not, for understanding the rubric is the key to success in the extended essay. 

It’s like having a treasure map, except the treasure is a good grade and the map is… well, it’s still a map, but you get the idea.

How is the Extended Essay Scored?

The IB extended essay is scored on a scale of 0-34 points, with a maximum of 12 points awarded for fulfilling the general requirements of the extended essay, and up to 22 points awarded for meeting the assessment criteria.

Here’s a table that outlines the grading scale for the IB extended essay:

This table provides a quick overview of the score range for each grade, from “excellent” to “elementary.”

If you want to improve the quality of your assignment, you can always ask for professional extended essay writing assistance.

It’s important to note that the grades are determined by the total score earned in the extended essay, which is based on the general requirements and the assessment criteria.

By understanding the grading scale, students can work towards achieving their desired grade and meeting the expectations of the IB organization, starting from the very beginning.

Meanwhile, we asume that you already know what is the word count for IB extended essay? Don’t you?

IB Extended Essay Word Count: How to Succeed and Exceed Expectations?

What is the maximum grade for IB extended essay?

The IB extended essay grading criteria consists of five criteria, each worth various points to achieve the maximum of 34 points. They are:

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

To achieve success, it’s crucial to understand and meet each criterion.

The total score can range from 0-36 points, with 34 points being the maximum possible score, as two points are deducted for not meeting the general requirements. Essays that earn 0 points are automatically failed , while essays that earn 28 points or more are considered “excellent” and earn an A grade.

Who Grades the Extended Essay?

So, who grades it? Well, it’s a two-step process:

The school’s supervisor

This person is typically a teacher within the school who guides the student through the process of the EE. They help formulate the research question, provide resources, and offer feedback on drafts of the essay. The supervisor grades the essay based on the guidelines set forth by the IB.

The IB examiner

After the school’s supervisor grades the essay, it is sent to the International Baccalaureate Organization. Here, an external examiner, who is an expert in the subject of the essay, also grades it. They are unaware of the supervisor’s grade in order to maintain impartiality.

The final grade for the Extended Essay is the combination of the supervisor’s and the external examiner’s grades. The grading process is quite rigorous, ensuring that the student’s work is evaluated thoroughly and fairly.

Overall, the extended essay is scored based on the student’s ability to meet the assessment criteria, as well as their overall approach to the research and writing process. By understanding the grading system and meeting the requirements of each criterion, students can maximize their chances of achieving a top grade.

Charting the Course to a Top Grade

In this section, we’ll dive deeper into each criterion and provide you with tips and tricks to help you achieve a top grade. We’ll show you how to avoid common pitfalls and how to make your essay stand out from the crowd. 

So, grab your compass and your map, and let’s chart a course to success!

Let me begin with a shorter and more understandable version of the main IB extended essay assessment criteria that you will find in the table below.

Now, I will focus on each point of the extended essay rubric in detail.

Criteria A: Focus and Method ✅

This criterion is all about your research question and your approach to answering it. It’s like setting sail on a ship – if you don’t know where you’re going, you’ll never get there. 

So, choose your research question wisely and plan your approach carefully, or you’ll be lost at sea.

Criteria B: Knowledge and Understanding ✅

This criterion is all about your ability to gather and use relevant information. It’s like navigating the high seas of research – if you don’t have the right map, you’ll end up lost in a sea of irrelevant information. 

Hence, choose your sources carefully and use them wisely, or you’ll be drowning in a sea of confusion.

Criteria C: Critical Thinking ✅

This criterion is all about your ability to analyze and evaluate your sources. It’s like navigating through treacherous waters – if you don’t know how to read the signs, you’ll crash your ship on the rocks. 

Be critical of your sources and evaluate them carefully, or you’ll be shipwrecked.

Criteria D: Presentation ✅

This criterion is all about the presentation of your essay. It’s like arriving at your destination – if you don’t look presentable, people won’t take you seriously. 

Criterion E: Engagement ✅

This criterion is all about your level of engagement with the topic and your essay. It’s like riding the waves of enthusiasm – if you’re not passionate about your topic, your essay will lack depth and conviction. So, choose a topic that excites you, and let your enthusiasm shine through in your writing.

You will need to polish your essay until it shines, or you’ll be like a sailor with a torn shirt and a dirty face. Nobody likes such sailors, believe me 😉

Tips for Meeting the IB EE Grading Boundaries

I know that many of you have been waiting for this part. Here, I’m sharing the best advice to follow if you want to meet the IB extended essay rubric and write wonderful IB EE that will lead to achieving the highest grades.

Importance of a clear research question 👍

Your research question is the foundation of your essay, so it’s essential to choose one that is clear, concise and focused. A good research question will guide your research and help you stay on track. 

It’s like finding true north – once you know where you’re going, you can chart a course to get there.

Use of relevant sources and evidence 👍

It’s important to use sources and evidence that are relevant and reliable. Use academic sources such as peer-reviewed journals, books, and reputable websites. 

Make sure to evaluate your sources critically and use them to support your argument. It’s like navigating with a reliable map – you’ll get where you need to go much faster and with fewer wrong turns.

Critical analysis and evaluation of sources 👍

Refrain from regurgitating information from your sources. It’s essential to analyze and evaluate them critically, you can start right from your extended essay proposal use them to support your argument. 

Ask yourself questions like: Who wrote this? What are their credentials? Is this information biased or objective? It’s like charting a course around obstacles – you’ll need to navigate carefully to avoid pitfalls and dead ends.

Importance of good organization and structure 👍

A well-organized essay with a clear structure is easier to read and understand. Use headings and subheadings to guide the reader through your essay, and make sure each paragraph flows logically and smoothly into the next. 

It’s like steering a steady course – you’ll avoid choppy waters and keep your readers engaged.

Clear and effective communication of ideas 👍

Finally, make sure to communicate your ideas clearly and effectively. Use concise and precise language, and avoid jargon and unnecessary complexity. 

Remember, your essay should be accessible to a general audience, not just experts in your field.

It’s like docking at your destination with style – you want to make a good impression and satisfy your readers, aka tutors.

Setting Sail for Success

In conclusion, understanding the grading criteria is essential to success in the IB extended essay. By following the rubric and focusing on the four criteria, you can chart a course to a top grade.

Remember, the extended essay is an opportunity to explore a topic that you’re passionate about and to demonstrate your research and analysis skills. Embrace the challenge, and let the wind in your sails carry you to success.

If you’re out of the wind for your sails, feeling overwhelmed and need assistance writing your IB extended essay , resources are available to help you succeed. 

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 stringent IB criteria but also reflects your passion for any specified EE subject .

Contact your teacher, librarian, or other academic professionals such as Extended Essay Writers for guidance and support. 

Wishing you success in navigating the challenges of the extended essay.

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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Dr. Bogard's Extended Essay Guide For IB Business Management

Read Everything In Here And You'll Not Only Know How To Get An Excellent Score But It Will Be much Easier For You To Do It

Course curriculum

Thinking about doing an extended essay for business management.

Be Your Best Self Every Day

Video: What You Should Be Aware Of Before Starting Your BM EE

Start Here With The IB Extended Essay Complete Guide - Read The Business Management Pages 146-154

Your Sources Must Not Be Older Than 4 Years (= Find A Recent Hot Topic From Within The Past 4 Years)

Quick Start Guide

IB's Main Objective = ATL (Approaches To Learning) Talk About These 5 Skills In Your Reflections- They Are Scored By Examiners!

THE RHS EE Guide (Sept. 2022)

How To Design Your Best RQ

Read These BM EE Titles To See What Yours Should Look Like

The IB Business Management EE Guide- Read This Several Times Throughout Your EE Journey

Not Sure Which Company To Choose For Your BM EE? (Junior Year's February Task)

Option 1: Find A Company With A Recent Crisis (Watch This Boeing Example)

Option 2: Find A Company Being Successful (Zipline Example)

Extra Help Getting Started With Your EE Research Question (RQ)

Focus Your RQ On The BM Key Term Not The Company

Past, Present Or Future? IA vs EE

The BM EE Poster - Most Important Rules To Know (Read Each Column Top To Bottom)

Video: How To Do Research Using Scholarly Business Journals (Ask The Media Specialist In The Library Which Databases Are Available)

List Of Business Websites For Finding For Your BM Tools (February Task)

Which IB BM Key Term Fits For A Human Resource Topic At A Non-Profit

MUST READ: Final Tour Of Your EE Thinking & Writing Process

Tesla Article Used As Example In Article Above.

IB's Guide On How You Cite & Build Your References Page At The End Of Your EE (Published 2022)

EE Meetings, Monthly Reflections & Assignments

Dr. Bogard's EE Time Line From Beginning to End

Meetings Packet - Bring this to every EE meeting

EE Planning Worksheet Assignment (complete & discuss in March or April)

Tips To Help You Complete Your Planning Worksheet

Visual Outline Assignment: Upload Your Completed Picture In ManageBac. Print A Copy & Complete It. Schedule A Meeting With Dr. Bogard To Discuss It. You May Turn This In To The IB Office Before Senior Year Starts In August!

What Happens If You Miss Your Scheduled Meeting?

Requirement: Write Your First Reflection In MB At The End Of The First Advisor Meeting

IB Examiner Advice

Examiners' Overall Scoring Comments About Submitted BM EEs

Examiner Comments About Student Reflections

Here Is What IB Wants You To Do When Writing Your Reflections

Here Are Sample EEs That Earned An 'A' & Here Is Your Template (Remember To Use Different Words)

Our Tesla EE That Scored An A (You May Not Choose The Same Company Or The Same Research Question)

Our IKEA EE That Scored An A (You May Not Choose The Same Company Or The Same Research Question)

Another Of Our EEs That Scored an A (Your EE May Not Use The Same Company Or the Same RQ)

Take A Look Through Dr. Bogard's BM EE Template (please do not share or circulate-it is not an official IB resource)

Download Your Template Here...

This Is How Your EE Is Scored

The EE Scoring Rubric (34 Marks)

IB EE Grade Descriptors- Read Each & Note The Things You Must Do To Earn a Final Score Of " A"

Learn What The Expectations Are For Each Criteria

EE Scores and Boundaries

EE Scoring Criteria- The Most Detailed Information To Guide Your Writing

Your EE Affects Your IB Diploma

A Great EE Can Earn You Bonus Points On Your IB Diploma

Know The IB Rules For Earning Your IB Diploma

Tools, Techniques, Theories

How The Tools Fit Into The Structure of the EE

List Of Most Popular Analysis Tools

Complete List of Tools, Techniques and Theories from the IB BM Syllabus

How To Read Your Company's Financial Reports

Video: How To Read An Annual Report In 60 Minutes (The 2017 Sample Used In These Videos Can Be Downloaded Here)

Video: What Is An Income Statement (Also Called A Profit & Loss Account)? It's Inside The Annual Report

Video: An Example Of How To Read And Understand An Income Statement For A Specific Company

Video: How To Read A Cash Flow Statement (It's Also Inside The Company's Annual Report)

Video: An Example Of Reading A Cash Flow Statement Using Tesla (It's In Their Annual Report, Of Course)

Video: How To Read A Balance Sheet (It's Inside The Annual Report As Well)

Annual Report: When Investigating An Acquisition...

How To Start Writing

Article 1 - How To Start Your BM EE (Late February / Early March Work Of Junior Year)

Article 2 - Three Easy Steps To Master Your BM EE (Summer Work Before Senior Year)

Article 3 - How To Write An Analysis That Supports Your Findings (Summer Work)

Article 4 - How To Make Your Good EE Great (Late Summer Work)

Article 5 - Dr. Bogard Explains What It Means To Analyze

Article 6 - What Is An Evaluative Statement? (You Must Include These In Your EE)

Write Like a Professional - Use APA Style

Understand What Plagiarism Is So You Don't Do It By Accident

Humor: Check & Verify What You See & Hear From Your Sources

You Must Use A Quote That Ends With An APA Citation In Every Paragraph (Every Source On Your "References Page" Must Be Quoted At Least Once!)

Handout: 4-Page APA Booklet With Examples

Handout: APA Quick Guide

Your Complete Guide To Using APA Style With Complete Examples

Use These 3 Writing Methods To Avoid Plagiarizing

Must Read: The IB Citation Rule Book

How To Cite AI Tools (AI Sources Are Not Reliable & May Not Be Appropriate For Any Part Of Your EE)

Your Finished EE

Time To Make Some Vocabulary Adjustments

How To Shorten Your Final EE Draft

The Final EE A-Z Checklist (You Must Write Each Letter On Your Hard Copy)

After Getting Your Draft Back- Follow These Steps To A Final Paper

How To Replace Your Descriptive Sentences With Analytical Sentences (Look At The Second Page)

Video: What Is The Purpose of the Viva Voce?

Viva Voce Due Dates

How To Confirm Your Viva Voce

Viva Voce Presentation Handout

IB Requires You To Submit This Completed RPPF Form Into IBIS (You Can't Earn The Diploma Without This)

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What's Next?

IB Grade Boundaries M2023: Detailed Comparison with M2019 and M2022

April 2024 update: m2024 grade boundaries click here.

The International Baccalaureate (IB) is a highly respected educational program for high school students that emphasizes critical thinking, creativity, and global-mindedness. The IB exams are taken by students all over the world, and their results are used by universities to evaluate students’ academic abilities. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the IB exams were disrupted, leading to changes in the grading system and the setting of the IB grade boundaries. In this article, we will explore the IB grade boundaries for M2023 and how they are affected by the pandemic. We have provided IB grade boundary summaries of popular IB subjects in the article below, and we have also  attached a pdf  of grade boundaries for all IB subjects for M2019 and M2022. 

Understanding IB Grade Boundaries

Before we dive into the changes in the IB grade boundaries for 2023, let’s first understand what they are. IB grade boundaries are the minimum marks required to achieve a certain grade on an IB exam. These boundaries are set by a group of examiners who carefully evaluate the exam papers and determine the difficulty level of the exam. The grade boundaries are adjusted every year based on the performance of the students and the difficulty level of the exam. 

Changes in the IB Grading System due to COVID-19

The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted the education system worldwide, and the IB program was no exception. The pandemic led to the closure of schools, cancellation of exams, and a shift to online learning. In response to these challenges, the IB program made some changes to the grading system to ensure that students were not unfairly disadvantaged. These changes included:

• Cancelation of exams: In 2020, the IB program canceled its exams due to the pandemic. Instead, students were awarded grades based on their IAs, predicted grades, and teacher recommendations.
• Adjustments to the grading system: To ensure that students were not disadvantaged by the cancellation of exams, the IB program adjusted its grading system. This adjustment included a shift in the grade boundaries to reflect the predicted performance of students. 
• Introduction of an alternative assessment: In 2021, the IB program introduced an alternative assessment for students who were unable to take the exams due to the pandemic. This assessment was based on the IA students did and other evidence of student performance.
• Prior to May 2020, grade boundaries were published by the IB by component, in other words the IB published grade boundaries for each individual examination paper. During covid, exams were canceled and the IB only published grade boundaries for the overall score of each subject.

IB Grade Boundaries for 2023

With the disruption caused by the pandemic, many students and educators are wondering how the IB grade boundaries will be set for May 2023. Although it is still early to say for sure, May 2023 will be the first examination session since the full recovery of the covid-19 pandemic, and the  IB has hinted  that the grade boundaries will be similar to that of May 2019. Assuming that the May 2023 grade boundaries will be similar to that of May 2019, we will compare the May 2019 grade boundaries to the May 2022 grade boundaries in the following section, and examine what students should expect for the May 2023 IB exams.

IB Grade Boundaries Overview of Popular Subjects

In this section, the term “May 2023 Grade Boundaries” or its synonyms should be drawn in parallel to May 2019 grade boundaries. It is important to note that as of now, there is no certainty regarding the specific grade boundaries that will be used for the May 2023 exams. However, based on the information provided by the IB, it is reasonable to assume that the May 2023 grade boundaries will be similar to those used in May 2019.

IB Math Analysis and Approaches

The May 2019 IB Maths syllabus is different to that of the current IB math syllabus. The math course closest to Math AA HL will be the old Maths HL with Calculus option, so a comparison between these 2 courses will be made. The math course closest to Maths analysis and approaches SL will be the old Maths SL, the comparison will be between these 2 math courses as well. 

IB Math Analysis and Approaches HL

• May 2022 only requires students to get an overall of 65% for a 7 while May 2023 will need 75%. In general, the grade boundaries for May 2023 will be more difficult than that of May 2022. 
• Paper 3 requires only a 68% to get a 7, meaning it will be the most difficult paper out of the 3. 
• There is a 10% increase in grade requirements to achieve a 7 for May 2023. However, the grades for IB are scaled, meaning exams could be easier to ensure that a percentage of students can achieve a 7. 

IB Math Analysis and Approaches SL

• Similar to the HL, M2023 boundaries will be 10% higher in general. 

IB Math Applications and Interpretations

The May 2019 IB Maths syllabus is different to that of the current IB math syllabus. The math course closest to Math AI HL will be the old Maths HL with Statistic option, so a comparison between these 2 courses will be made. The math course closest to Maths applications and interpretations SL will be the old Maths studies, so the comparison will be between these 2 math courses as well. 

IB Math Applications and Interpretations HL

IB Math Applications and Interpretations SL

IB Chemistry

• IB Biology SL is one of only 2 subjects in this list of popular IB subjects where the May 2023 exams are expected to have a more lenient boundary compared to the May 2022 exams.

IB English A Language and Literature

IB English A Literature

IB Business Management

IB Theory of Knowledge (TOK)

In general, the May 2023 IB exams are expected to have a more difficult boundary compared to the May 2022 exams. However it is important to remember that a more difficult boundary does not mean that the difficulty of the exams will higher as IB scales their marking. The IB has to ensure that a certain percentage of students achieve a specific grade, so a harder boundary could in fact suggest that the exams are easier, hence more students are getting higher raw scores. 

Detailed IB Grade Boundaries By Subject PDF

How the ib grade boundaries affect students.

The IB grade boundaries have a significant impact on students’ academic futures. The grades they receive determine their eligibility for admission to universities and colleges, scholarships, and other opportunities. 

With the COVID-19 pandemic causing disruption to the education system, students may be facing additional challenges in achieving the grades they need. The changes in the grading system and the grade boundaries could potentially help to mitigate some of these challenges and ensure that students are not unfairly disadvantaged.

However, it’s important to note that the grade boundaries are not the only factor that determines a student’s academic success. Students should also focus on developing their critical thinking, creativity, and other skills that the IB program emphasizes. This will not only help them achieve better grades but also prepare them for success in their future academic and professional endeavors.

The IB grade boundaries for 2023 are still uncertain as the exams have not been done yet. However, the IB program has hinted that the grade boundaries for the upcoming exam will be similar to that of pre Covid times of May 2019. In general, the boundaries for May 2023 for a majority of subjects should be more strict than that of May 2022, and it is important to note that the boundaries are an indicator of the amount of students that achieve a specific grade, meaning the exams of 2023 could be slightly easier. The IB program remains a highly respected educational program that prepares students for success in their future academic and professional endeavors.

What are IB grade boundaries?

IB grade boundaries are the minimum marks required to achieve a certain grade on an IB exam.

How are IB grade boundaries set?

IB grade boundaries are set by a group of examiners who carefully evaluate the exam papers and determine the difficulty level of the exam.

How has the COVID-19 pandemic affected the IB grading system?

The COVID-19 pandemic has led to the cancellation of exams and adjustments to the grading system to ensure that students are not unfairly disadvantaged.

Will there be any changes in the IB grade boundaries for 2023?

It’s uncertain at this point, but IB grade boundaries for May 2023 exams is likely to be similar to that of May 2019 exams.

How do IB grade boundaries affect students?

IB grade boundaries have a significant impact on students’ academic futures as they determine their eligibility for admission to universities and colleges, scholarships, and other opportunities.

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How to Choose an IB Extended Essay Topic

What’s covered:, what is the ib extended essay, what makes a good extended essay topic, narrowing down your focus, how is the extended essay scored.

• How Does The Extended Essay Affect My Admissions Chances?

The International Baccalaureate Program (IB) curriculum requires students to go above and beyond typical academic standards for most high school students. One of the required tasks is writing the extended essay. To further understand the extended essay, we need to understand what IB’s core is, which is related to the 45 points one can achieve in IB . Out of 45 points, three of these points come from the core, which is made up of the extended essay (EE), theory of knowledge, and CAS. Performing well in the EE is critical to doing well in IB, because passing the core is a necessary component of earning the diploma. 

The EE is one of the mandatory components of the IB curriculum, and it’s a practical way of preparing students to write undergraduate-level research papers in the form of a 4000 word essay. You would choose which subject to write your EE on in relation to the subject sets you take when in IB, so you have six choices. If you were to ideally timeline the extended essay and plan all the work out early, you’d start planning a topic the first semester of your junior year (or IB year 1).

Starting early to pick a topic is an advantage many students miss, because the phase of the EE in which most students get stuck on is just finalizing a solid topic to write about. While picking a topic shouldn’t be too stressful, it is important to pick one you could enjoy writing about, as lack of interest is apparent in an essay and will come across to your examiner. 

Searching for ideas to create a topic can come from different sources, but for most people it usually begins with the subjects you’re already taking. For example, let’s say you chose to write an EE in Physics HL or SL, then it does not matter too much. You’d use the topics discussed in class content, ranging from textbooks to lectures as source material for inspiration to create a topic for yourself. 

Perhaps you found yourself particularly interested in planetary physics – you could then read more into that unit of the course and hopefully find bits of information to help create a topic. 

After finding a source of inspiration for your topic, structuring your ideas in a specific format to create a topic is important. 

On the idea of physics, a great topic would be:

Physics EE on Aerodynamics: What is the relationship between frequency and surface area against lift of the propeller of a toy helicopter?

The reason this topic is great is because we can instantly tell how specified and narrowed down the central focus of the paper is just off a glance. Narrowing down your focus in your topic allows you, as the writer, to stay on track throughout the entirety of the paper. Derailing from your topic and going out of its bounds can lead to irrelevant information, making the content of your paper essentially useless. Keep your topic narrow and make sure to follow the topic throughout the entire paper, so you end up with a concise paper that actually can conclude with a solution to whatever your paper seeks to solve. 

Additionally, using keywords in your topic that give the examiner an idea of what they’re going to read is important. In this case, the writer used “frequency” and “surface area,” telling us they’re writing a paper related to mechanics as well. 

Understanding that the topic is the skeleton of your essay, make sure to refer back to it every time you make a finding or reveal data directly relevant to answering the topic’s question. Using data and evidence that isn’t relevant to your narrowed down topic will also cause you to lose points, simply because of the lack of use for it. 

The EE is scored out of 34 total points, with grade boundaries being assigned to associated letter grades with it. The following table lists the grade boundaries with their respective letter grades:

As mentioned earlier, the EE is part of a larger component of the IB curriculum, the core of IB. The core has its own grading scheme that also determines whether or not you pass and earn the diploma. It goes by the following table:

How Does the Extended Essay Affect My Admissions Chances?

While the EE has no direct impact on your college admissions, it does impact your total IB grade. However, even though your IB grade has little impact on your college admissions, being part of IB demonstrates proof of taking rigorous classes, which will positively impact your college admissions. 

That being said, writing the EE will also make you a much better essay writer, and this could later help you in writing essays for college admissions! For more information on how your chances of college admissions look, use CollegeVine’s admissions calculator ! This tool takes into account GPA, test scores, classes, and more to calculate your admissions chances at your dream schools!

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International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme

Predicted score calculator, welcome to ib predict, last updated april 9, 2024.

Getting into the university of your dreams won't be easy, but IB Predict is here to help you along the way. IB exams are hard for a reason. They separate the skilled from the unskilled, the prepared from the unprepared, and the knowers from the throwers. In many cases, teachers are more than willing to inflate their students' predicted grades, deluding them into a dangerous state of overconfidence. The IB Predict calculator absolutely does not lie. It uses grade boundary data from past IB examinations to ensure precision. With IB Predict, you'll know exactly what is needed in order to score a 4, 5, 6, or 7. No more, no less.

I have updated the site with November 2023 grade boundaries. Compared to M23 and N22, N23 boundaries have somewhat increased.

• There have been significant point increases in the following major subjects: SL/HL English LAL, SL/HL English Lit, SL/HL Math AA, HL Math AI, SL Physics, ESS, SL/HL SEHS, SL Visual Arts, SL BM, SL Economics, SL Geography, SL/HL Global Politics.
• There have been significant point decreases in the following subjects: SL/HL Dance.
• Extended essay boundaries were raised by 1 point to pre-covid levels.

Take this information with a grain of salt. The N23 cohort only had about 20k candidates, as opposed to the approximate 180k candidates during M23. Due to the small sample size, it may be the case that N23 exihibited relatively higher signs of intelligence. N23 boundaries therefore should not be taken as a strong indicator of M24 boundaries - use M23 instead.

Please report all errors and concerns to [email protected] . Thank you and good luck to all M24 candidates!

Individual Grade Calculators

Upcoming May 2024 Syllabus Changes (old syllabuses archived as of April 9)

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Group 1: Studies In Language And Literature

Please provide more details, group 2: language acquisition, group 3: individuals and societies, group 4: sciences, group 5: mathematics, group 6: the arts, theory of knowledge.

Theory Of Knowledge Essay

Weight: 67%

Theory Of Knowledge Exhibition

Weight: 33%

Extended Essay

Weight: 100%