Extended Project Qualification

Examining Board: AQA

Entry Requirements:

Although there are no formal entry requirements, due to the demanding nature of this qualification, it is advisable not to take on this project if you do not achieve your target grades at AS level. You would also be expected to begin some preliminary research and planning tasks during the summer break between Years 12 and 13. For further information and to see example projects please visit the AQA website – www.aqa.org.uk

Subject Content

This is an optional qualification that you can choose to take in addition to your A level subjects.

It is equivalent to an AS level subject and is worth up to 70 UCAS points. Started at the end of Year 12 and continued throughout Year 13, the Extended Project will develop and extend from one or more of your study areas and/or from an area of personal interest outside your main programme of study. It is entirely flexible and will be based on a topic chosen by you. The final product can be equally flexible and can take the form of anything ranging from a 5000 word report to a sculpture, from a piece of music to a drama performance. Your project can take the form of whatever is most suitable for the topic. The EPQ is recognised and valued highly by the majority of universities, as it will clearly demonstrate your ability to manage your own workload and study independently.

Methods of Study

Delivery of the Extended Project Qualification will involve some teaching of the necessary skills, although much of the supervision and assessment will be on a one-to-one basis. The main focus of the project is on independent study and the development of the necessary study skills. In total, you will participate in approximately 120 guided learning hours to complete the project.

You are required, with appropriate supervision, to:

  • Choose an area of interest
  • Draft a title and aims of the project for formal approval
  • Plan, research and carry out the project
  • Produce a final artifact
  • Deliver a presentation to a specified audience
  • Provide evidence of all stages of project

Methods of Assessment

The EPQ is holistically assessed at final submission. The components of the project which contribute to the assessment are as follows:

  • Final artifact
  • Production log
  • Presentation
  • Any other supporting evidence