Study Skills

Course summary

The EPQ is an independent research project where you can learn about and begin to develop the higher-level skills that are essential for university study. You can visit university libraries to gain an insight into their size and scale of and to experience studying in that environment. The EPQ is increasingly popular with universities looking for candidates who can demonstrate their ability to conduct detailed, independent research in the manner that is expected of a higher education student. The Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) is a stand-alone qualification designed to extend and develop students’ skills in independent research and project management. The EPQ is awarded UCAS points worth half an A Level and is recognized by universities and employers; some leading universities make alternative offers to students undertaking an EPQ. The EPQ requires students to carry out research on a topic that they have chosen and is not covered by the other qualifications. They then use this research to produce a written report and, in the case of practical projects, an artifact or a production. A student can take inspiration from something studied in class or something completely unrelated to their studies.