Exam Board AQA

The Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) is an A-level standard standalone qualification designed to extend and develop students' abilities and prepare for university or a future career. It's worth half an A-level (28 UCAS points) and understood by universities and employers. Many universities make lower A-level offers to students undertaking an EPQ.

Students get to plan and carry out research on a topic that they've chosen and isn't covered by their other qualifications. They can take inspiration from something touched on in class or something personal and unrelated to their studies. They then use this research to produce a 5000 word written project or an artefact accompanied by a 1000 word evaluation.. Students become more critical, reflective and independent learners and develop and apply decision-making and problem-solving skills.

Undertaking an EPQ can also deliver other benefits, such as improved A Level performance for students taking EPQ and application of their new skills to other areas of study.