What makes the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) different from most school assignments? You choose the question, find your own sources, decide which evidence is reliable and manage the project over several months.
That changes the way you work. There is less step-by-step instruction and more responsibility for the decisions behind the final outcome.
In this guide, we explain what an EPQ is, why students choose to do one, how it prepares you for university and what a strong project can show universities about the way you think and work.
What is an EPQ?
The Extended Project Qualification, or EPQ, is a Level 3 qualification designed to give you the opportunity to complete an extended project with a significant degree of independence.
AQA describes the EPQ as being worth half an A level, with an A* currently carrying 28 UCAS Tariff points.
Depending on your project and awarding organisation, you might produce a research-based written report or a practical outcome, such as an artefact, supported by written evidence. You will also need to keep track of how the project develops: what you planned, what changed, which sources you used and why you made certain decisions.
The process behind it is just as important as the outcome.
You are assessed on areas such as how you manage your project, how effectively you use resources, how you develop your ideas and how well you evaluate both your findings and the project itself. Exact requirements differ between awarding organisations, so always follow the guidance given by your school and examination board.
Why Do an EPQ?
One of the main benefits of doing an EPQ is that it gives you experience of working more like a university student.
For example, instead of receiving a reading list, you may need to find ten sources yourself and decide which three are credible. Instead of completing a two-week assignment, you might have to manage a project for several months, and you need to reach and defend your own conclusion.
Through the EPQ, you can develop skills including:
- finding and comparing academic sources;
- spotting weak evidence or biased arguments;
- organising a long-term research project;
- writing at greater length;
- managing deadlines;
- referencing your sources correctly; and
- reaching a conclusion based on evidence rather than assumption.
You also find out what independent study really feels like when doing EPQ. That can be useful before you commit to studying a subject for three or four years at university.
Does an EPQ Help with University Applications?
An EPQ can strengthen a university application, but it does not automatically give you an admissions advantage.
A strong project can show that you have taken a subject beyond the classroom. You have chosen a question, found and assessed your own sources, worked through different arguments and reached a conclusion you can explain.
If your EPQ relates to the course you want to study, it can also give you something specific to discuss in an application or interview. You might explain why you chose the topic, which source changed your view, where you disagreed with an argument or what you would research next.
That is more convincing than simply saying you are interested in a subject.
The EPQ also carries UCAS Tariff points, and some universities may take it into account when making offers. In some cases, it may form part of an alternative offer. Policies vary by university and course, so check the entry requirements carefully.
The key point is simple: the EPQ works best when the project is strong and you can talk clearly about what you did, what you found and how your thinking developed.
Is an EPQ Right for You?
An EPQ may suit you if there is a subject or question you genuinely want to explore beyond your normal lessons.
It is worth considering if you:
- have a topic you would be happy researching for several months;
- can plan your own work and keep track of deadlines;
- want to test your interest in a subject you may study at university; and
- have enough time to complete the project alongside your other qualifications.
Be realistic about the workload. A good topic helps, but so does having the time to research it properly, keep your project records up to date and produce a strong final outcome.
If that sounds manageable, the EPQ can give you an early taste of the research, writing, and decision-making you will experience at university.
Considering an EPQ as part of your university preparation?
Contact BE Education to discover how our expert consultants can help you.
EPQ FAQs
What does EPQ stand for?
EPQ stands for Extended Project Qualification. It is a Level 3 qualification based on an independent project.
How many UCAS points is an EPQ worth?
An A* in the EPQ is worth up to 28 UCAS Tariff points. Lower grades receive fewer points.
Is an EPQ equivalent to an A level?
Not exactly. The EPQ is an A-level standard qualification, but AQA describes it as being worth half an A level in size.
Do universities value the EPQ?
Many universities recognise the EPQ, but they use it differently. Some may consider it when making offers or assessing academic interest.
Does an EPQ have to relate to your university subject?
No. However, a related topic can give you useful examples to discuss in applications or interviews.
Can an EPQ lower a university offer?
Sometimes. At some universities, a strong EPQ can form part of an alternative offer with lower A-level grade requirements, although policies vary by course and institution.
What is the difference between a dissertation and an artefact EPQ?
Under AQA, a research-based EPQ can take the form of an extended written report, while an artefact EPQ produces something practical alongside a research-based written report. Artefacts can include work such as artwork, engineering projects, performances, computer programs or websites.
