TOK and the Extended Essay are graded A-E and combined through the IB core points matrix. Together they can add 0, 1, 2 or 3 points to the Diploma score, while CAS must be completed but does not add points.
Your six IB subjects can add up to 42 points. TOK and the Extended Essay can add up to 3 more, which is how the maximum Diploma score reaches 45.
The matrix rewards strong TOK and EE combinations: A/A, A/B and B/A sit at the top with 3 core points; a B in TOK and C in EE gives 2 points; weaker C/D or D/C combinations give 0. An E in TOK or EE is a failing condition, so core planning is not optional.
Theory of Knowledge is assessed through two pieces: the TOK exhibition and a 1,600-word TOK essay. Good TOK work is not about memorising definitions; it is about explaining how knowledge claims are built, challenged and justified.
The best students use precise objects or examples, clear claims, thoughtful counterclaims and a clean link back to the prescribed title or exhibition prompt.
The Extended Essay is an independent, self-directed research project that finishes as a 4,000-word paper. It needs a focused research question, a subject that fits the question, relevant evidence, analysis and academic referencing.
A strong EE does not just collect sources. It argues, evaluates methods, uses subject-specific thinking and shows reflection through the school supervision process.
If you are short of the Diploma or a university condition, separate two questions: did subject grades cause the problem, or did core points cause the problem? Retaking an exam subject will not automatically fix a weak TOK/EE combination.
IBretake helps with exam-hosting searches. It does not arrange new TOK, new EE supervision, CAS completion, coursework, IA, tutoring or oral preparation. If core grades are the issue, speak to your DP coordinator before building a retake plan.
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