All about the sixth form EPQ – Extended Project Qualification

Many universities recognize EPQ as a valuable preparation for higher education, with some of them offering reduced offer requirements for students who potentially will earn high scores in their project. The EPQ helps students develop fundamental skills such as research, analysis, time management and critical thinking, all of which are very useful for academic education and beyond.

It’s also a great super-curricular activity that allows students to demonstrate their interest in a topic beyond A-level curriculum content. By doing EPQ, students demonstrate their ability to interact independently with their subject, which is something universities highly value in their applicants.

CIFE colleges are specialist sixth form colleges, with a strong history of helping students earn excellent grades in EPQ. Our experienced educators know what is needed to produce a high-quality project and provide structured support during the process. At CIFE colleges, students benefit from the following:

• Educational classes covering basic research skills, project management and academic writing.
• Specialised guidance on topic selection, structuring research and correcting arguments.
• Individual consultation with teachers who have a lot of experience in monitoring EPQ projects.
• Personalised feedback to help students develop and strengthen their project.
• Support in academic applications, which helps students highlight their EPQ in personal statements and interviews.

The EPQ process requires students to identify a topic, plan their research and produce a final effect, most usually in a report of 5,000 words or a practical project with written explanation. Students also complete a production report in which they reflect on their progress and show how they’ve developed their ideas over time. The evaluation of the project is based on the following:

• Project planning and management
• Use of research and resources
• Analysis and evaluation
• Presentation and reflection

At CIFE colleges, we understand that managing an independent project can be challenging and that’s why our experienced instructors are here to guide you at every stage. In addition to individual counselling, students benefit from structured training classes that cover key academic skills such as:

• How to do high quality research
• Referral and scientific honesty
• Critical thinking and reasoning development
• Effective project management and organising

This combination of independent study and educational sessions ensures students develop the skills necessary to succeed in EPQ and beyond.

EPQ is one of the best ways to show true interest in a topic. Admissions tutors are always looking for evidence that students have been learning beyond the classroom and EPQ provides an excellent opportunity to do so.

By including the EPQ in a personal statement, students can highlight their ability to work independently, conduct detailed research and develop structured arguments, all of which are the skills needed at university.

In addition, EPQ can be the basis of academic interview questions. Many students realise that their project becomes a major topic in interviews, allowing them to discuss a specific area in detail and demonstrate their knowledge and interest.

If you’re considering EPQ, studying at a CIFE College can be your best chance of success. With specialised advice, classes, structured support and a history of high academic success, our colleges provide an ideal environment for students to develop their research skills and achieve excellent results.