Extended Project Qualification. EPQ. The mysterious sibling of the dreaded A-levels. Not much is known about the EPQ until the start of sixth form and sometimes not even until Yr13 so here’s everything you need to know about EPQs.
EPQs are half considered to be half an A-level therefore you can be awarded UCAS points at the end of this project
- Can be part of a contextual offer
Some universities may offer students reduced offers if they achieve a certain grade in their EPQ
- Prepare for University life
The independence needed for an EPQ is not available through A-level subjects therefore the independent research and dissertation written in University will be much more familiar if you have done an EPQ
Nishi Amin, who is currently embarking on her EPQ about the miscarriage of justice, has told me why she chose to take on this additional responsibility. “I chose to do the extended qualification project because I wanted something on which I can express my opinions and talk about in an academic piece of writing. I think it provides an opportunity to show universities that students’ abilities to take on high workloads as well as discuss topics they are passionate about. ”
However…
- highly selective universities do not really concern themselves in UCAS points nor in reducing offers based on EPQs
- it takes away from the time that could be put in achieving the best possible exam outcomes
- it’s often overwhelming for students with a lack of confidence in their presentation and communication skills
Apishayaa Gnanaroopan, on the other hand chose not to take because she feels she “would rather put all [her] hard work into ensuring she has perfect grades”. In addition she believes “the universities [she is] aiming for do not look for EPQs”.
Overall, it is really determined by the individual students. So good luck to those doing an EPQ, those who chose not and everyone in between!
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