Extended Essay viva voce guide
The viva voce is the final reflection conversation between the student and supervisor. It is an opportunity to discuss the completed research, explain important decisions, reflect on challenges and demonstrate ownership of the work.
Step 1
Look back at early topic ideas, research-question drafts, source decisions, method changes, interim reflection notes and major revisions. The conversation is richer when you can explain how the project developed.
Step 2
Choose a few moments you can discuss in detail: narrowing the scope, dealing with conflicting evidence, changing a method, revising an argument or responding to supervisor feedback while keeping ownership of the work.
Step 3
Supervisors may ask about sources, methods, findings, limitations or parts of the argument. The aim is not to catch students out but to have an authentic academic conversation about the completed research.
Step 4
Consider what you now do differently as a learner or researcher. Specific examples of changed behaviour, judgement or confidence are more useful than broad statements about skills.
Step 5
After the viva voce, use your own notes and research log to identify the strongest evidence for your final reflective statement. Do not treat the conversation as a script to copy.
It is a final reflection conversation rather than a separate subject examination. Schools should follow current IB guidance for the formal reflection process.
No. Preparing examples is useful, but the discussion should remain an authentic conversation about your own research journey.
The supervisor should follow the school’s academic-integrity procedures and current IB guidance. The conversation itself should not be used to manufacture or coach evidence.
Extended Essay Dashboard gives students a structured research journey while supervisors and coordinators get clear school-scoped oversight.
This guidance supports school practice and does not replace current official IB documentation or your school's approved Extended Essay policies.