The EE guide for first exams in 2027 introduces several important changes, summarised in the table and handout below. See the official guide and explore this Support Site further for more information on the EE requirements.   

Handout: Differences between the old guide and the new guide

Handout: The NEW guide

Changes Last exams 2026 First exams 2027
Research pathways Mostly subject‑specific; one interdisciplinary option (World Studies EE). Two explicit pathways: Subject‑Focused or Interdisciplinary. No more World Studies.
Criteria A Focus and Method (6) • B Knowledge and Understanding (6) • C Critical Thinking (12) • D Presentation (4) • E Engagement (6) — Total 34 marks. A Framework for the Essay (6) • B Knowledge and Understanding (6) • C Analysis and Line of Argument (6) • D Discussion and Evaluation (8) • E Reflection (4) — Total 30 marks.
Formatting/presentation. Presentation was assessed separately in Criterion D. Structural and presentational aspects now form part of Criterion A (Framework for the Essay).
Reflection RPPF with three separate reflection boxes (initial, interim, and viva voce) for a total of about 500 words. One consolidated reflective statement on the Reflection and Progress Form (RPF) of up to 500 words, written after the completion of the essay.
Emphasis of assessment Greater weight on critical thinking and argumentation (12 marks). More balanced weighting: stronger focus on evaluation and reflection; overall marks reduced to 30
Supervision Guidance through three reflection sessions and verification of authenticity. Similar role but streamlined reflection process; emphasis on formative feedback and ethical research practices. No more supervisor’s reflection at the end.

Recommendations
  • It's recommended that students actually take the subject(s) in which they write their EE.
  • It's recommended that students take notes on the three reflection meetings in preparation for writing one 500-word Reflections on Progress Form (RPF).
  • The interdisciplinary pathway can be a viable option, depending on the student's topic.
Important notice

Environmental systems and societies (ESS) and Literature and Performance are now considered considered 'cross-disciplinary' subjects. They may not be combined with other IBDP subjects for an interdisciplinary EE.

Related pages
Last modified: Saturday, 14 February 2026, 10:53 AM