Everything you need to know about EPQs
At Cambridge Online School, students seeking to go above and beyond in their sixth-form studies have a unique chance to take an Extended Project Qualification (EPQ), which is an academically recognised level 3 project that develops real skills and can open doors to future education and careers.
What is an EPQ?
An Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) is a standalone academic qualification taken alongside A-Levels, usually during sixth form (typically years 12-13, aged 16-18). It allows students to explore a topic they choose themselves in great depth, usually something they are passionate about or linked to their future goals.
Unlike traditional qualifications that focus on exams and set syllabuses, an EPQ is student-driven and research-led. It typically involves a written dissertation or around 5,000 words or a practical or creative project with an accompanying written report, all supported by research, planning, and reflection.
At Cambridge Online School, the EPQ course includes guided learning, personalised support, and small class sizes, helping students stay motivated throughout the qualification. EPQs are graded from A* to E and are worth up to 28 UCAS points, making them roughly equivalent to half an A-Level.
Why is an EPQ more than just another qualification?
EPQs develop real, transferable skills helping students learn how to conduct independent research, evaluate sources, manage long-term projects effectively, write formally, think critically, and present findings confidently. These skills are essential for university-level study and highly valued by future employers. These skills prove that students can handle work independently and efficiently, and prepare them for their futures, making them adaptable and confident in their abilities.
Widely respected by UK universities, EPQS can strengthen students’ applications in several ways, including extra UCAS points (up to 28 additional points can boost competitiveness), a personal statement talking point (some universities may recognise strong EPQ performance by lowering standard conditional offers, rewarding the additional effort).
The freedom to choose your topic is what makes the EPQ truly exciting. Whether students’ passion lies in environmental science, economics, literature, technology, or creative areas, an EPQ lets you go far deeper. This personal investment often leads to work that is more engaging, meaningful, and ultimately reflective of your own interests, which builds an advantage both academically and personally.
Because the EPQ is largely self-directed, it helps students learn how to set goals and stick to a research plan, make decisions independently, and overcome challenges in long projects. These qualities translate directly into readiness for university study and the workplace.
EPQ at Cambridge Online School – What makes it special?
At Cambridge Online School, students’ EPQ experience is supported through small online classes and personalised supervision, expert guidance through each stage of the project, flexibility to fit your project around you’re a-Level studies, and a supportive online community of teachers and fellow students. This means you don’t just do an EPQ, you excel at it, with the structure and interaction needed to stay on track and succeed.
Who should consider taking an EPQ?
An EPQ is ideal for students who are curious about a topic beyond their A-Level subjects, want to develop strong independent research skills, are thinking about competitive university courses, or desire a qualification that demonstrates initiative and passion on UCAS or career applications.
An EPQ isn’t just another course; it’s an opportunity to explore what matters to you, build skills that last a lifetime, and show universities and employers what you’re capable of.
