is epq worth it for dentistry

i’m looking to apply for dentistry and am currently doing epq but it’s a lot of work and i’d much rather focus on a levels, but i know that universities like it as an extra qualification. but also, some don’t accept it if you’re applying for dent/med. so is it worth doing?

Heya!

I think overall doing an EPQ is pretty worth it. As long as you can sort of cram right before deadlines you set for yourself then realistically it shouldn't take that much time at all. (But this depends on whether you're doing this as a lower sixth or an upper sixth) An EPQ is worth it, at least for me, because it gave me an avenue to talk about my interests in my personal statement, it was something that I could talk about during interview (which I actually did in 3 of my 4 interviews), and really it's something that helps you understand the world of academic research. Plus, if it's about dentistry then you'll get a bit of a headstart in dental school in terms of learning about how things are done.

If you're doing 3 A-levels then I think an EPQ workload is more than manageable (just me though), but 4 + EPQ seems a bit much. Sheffield is the only dental university that takes an EPQ into account, where you would get a lower offer of AAB as opposed to AAA provided you achieve an A in your EPQ. Personally I didn't apply there because it wasn't my top choice but that's really up to you. If you really are struggling I'd suggest talking to your EPQ supervisor or perhaps a teacher or someone about this, and working out how you can schedule your time in and maintain your work-life balance. Regardless, I wish you luck, and if you need any help with your EPQ I'd be more than happy to help (Mine was on dental tech and I got a 48/50) All the best!