The extended essay (EE) is a 4,000-word research project required of all IB Diploma Candidates. Students choose a research question during the fall semester of their junior year and complete an in-depth investigation on that topic over the course of a year. Guidance is provided through an extended essay mentor, and the extended essay is submitted late in the fall semester of the senior year. Details on the extended essay and its requirements are outlined in The Complete Guide to Extended Essays issued to IB juniors.