What is the EPQ?
The Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) is a level 3 (A-level standard) qualification offered by AQA, Edexcel, OCR and WJEC.
It involves researching a chosen topic and then creating either a 5,000 word report or a 'product' with a 1,000 word report.
After that you deliver a 10-15 minute presentation to a group of non-specialists about your topic.
Why should I do it?
The EPQ allows you to develop your personal interest in a topic you care about. The skills you'll develop – project planning, decision making, record keeping, evaluation and presenting – are invaluable in most jobs and uni courses.
Plus, it helps your uni application as it demonstrates your commitment to a subject and allows you to develop the independent research skills needed for undergraduate study.
How is it graded?
A*-E. Candidates who don't achieve at least an E will be not be awarded with the qualification.
Is it worth Ucas points?
Yes, it's worth half an A-level. An A* in the EPQ is worth 70 Ucas points – an A 60, B 50, C 40, D 30 and an E 20.
Does the topic have to be related to my A-levels?
Nope, it can be on anything you want (within reason). But make sure your project choice is practical and ethical – avoid anything that has the potential to upset anyone.
What topic should I choose?
Choose something that intrigues you or a theme that is shared in more than one of your subjects – but don't duplicate what you've done at A-level.
Start thinking about your passions, environment and organisations you're involved in – maybe you have strong views about human rights or animal welfare?
You'll need to do in-depth research and gather contrasting views on the subject to show your analysis and evaluation skills.
What does an EPQ look like?
EPQs can vary from a formal academic dissertation to a recording of a song.
Here are some examples of work from previous students:
- a dissertation that analyses an academic debate or issue
- a report of your own primary research
- a short story or (very short) book
- a performance (dance or drama)
- a website or program
- a piece of art
- a short film or media clip
- a model or something you've made
There will also be a discussion of how you approached the project – this will include problems you experienced and how you overcame them as well as how you planned the project and managed your time.
And at the end you'll need to give a presentation about your project to a small audience.
The exam boards all differ on how EPQs should be presented, so check the specification or ask your teacher.
What do you get marks for?
The mark schemes for the different boards vary but they all give marks in this proportion:
20% - Project planning and time management: how you use the time and resources available
20% - Using resources and research skills: how you collect and use information
40% - Developing an idea and producing an outcome: how you plan and create the project outcome
20% - Evaluation and presentation: your reflection on the project process and communication of the project to others
How long will it take to complete? I'm worried it might interfere with my A-levels
As a general guideline, you're expected to spend around 120 hours on your EPQ –many students start working on their EPQ during the summer of year 12.
