The Extended Project Qualification (EPQ)

The EPQ is an AQA qualification which is studied alongside student’s three chosen subjects if they wish to participate in it. It involves completing a piece of independent, in-depth research on a topic of students’ choice. 

The EPQ is worth half an A-Level and is graded A*-E. It is undertaken from Christmas of Year 12 to Christmas of Year 13 and comes in a variety of forms: 

• A 5,000 word essay (the most popular choice of students) 
• A production / performance 
• An exhibit/event 
• A poem or story 
• A model or prototype   

All students undertaking the EPQ keep a studios log of their research, present their research to a panel and work towards tight deadlines every step of the way. An excellent opportunity to develop key skills in preparation for their careers post-18. 

Universities highly credit the EPQ and it helps applications accordingly. Students can gain extra UCAS tariff points or even reduced entry grades from their EPQ project, they can gain an advantage at interview with evidencing such an independent piece of work and it furthers students’ understanding of a topic that they are keenly interested in.  

Overall, a fabulous project to be part of!