Is the IB Extended Essay considered a legitimate research paper for submission?

Colleges and Universities A-Z Amherst College
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<p>Hi, I’m a rising senior and a prospective applicant. A lot of the more prestigious schools seem to value research papers and lab reports written during internships, etc and I was wondering if anyone knew/had opinions on an EE (that’s an Extended Essay) being valid material to send in? As most IBers would know, a lot of supervisors and teachers consider the EE as a piece of pretty legit research writing (…for high schoolers), it’s 4000 words of concentrated analysis. Would it be considered appropriate?</p>

<p>If it helps, I’m writing mine in English Literature. I’m not going to apply as a lit major though, most likely something related to sustainability and environmentalism (something like EnvEng or environmental studies and economics). The EE is something IBers pore over the holidays and what not, so it would be great news for me if I could show something I’m genuinely proud of to someone other than the examination board. Any opinions would be immensely helpful – especially so if anyone knows about sending in the EE elsewhere e.g. other Ivies, top LACs.</p>

<p>Thanks in advance!</p>

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<p>The Research Supplement says</p>

<p>“Have you engaged in significant research in the natural sciences, mathematics, computer science, social sciences or humanities that was undertaken independently of your high school curriculum?”</p>

<p>Note the words “independently of your high school curriculum”. Since the EE is part of the IB program (and is mandatory for IB students) the EE does not work as a research supplement.</p>

<p>I do, however, wish you best of luck on your essay :)</p>