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Extended Project Qualification (Year 2 Only)


The Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) provides an excellent opportunity to independently research and write a dissertation on a topic of your choice. Throughout the project you will keep a log to plan and review your work. At the end of the project you will deliver a presentation. Your teacher will advise and mentor you, as well as help you develop your skills in organisation, research, presentation and reflection.

  • You can pursue your topic interest in depth, perhaps in an area related to your higher education direction.
  • The EPQ is graded A*-E and is worth the equivalent of half an A Level (up to 28 UCAS points).
  • Some universities will give a lower offer to students who are taking the EPQ; others will provide additional funding.
  • Employers see the EPQ as evidence of maturity and the ability to self-manage

I enjoyed the opportunity to research a new topic of interest. All of the hard work was worth it, as I have an extra qualification and gained new skills which will be useful at university. Learning how to research and reference was particularly useful. It was a great experience and I’m really pleased that I persevered with it.

Student 2022-23

Course Essentials

Enquiries To
Helen Chong: hjc@varndean.ac.uk