Extended Project Qualification (EPQ)
Available as part of our sixth form programme or a standalone course. | Ages 16-18
Home > Online Sixth Form > Extended Project Qualification (EPQ)
The EPQ is a core part of our Sixth Form programme, giving students the chance to develop independent research and project skills – with 70% of students achieving an A*/A
The Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) gives students the opportunity to explore a subject in depth, develop independent research skills, and produce a substantial final project.
Key benefits include:
- Independent research and project management skills
- Academic writing and critical thinking ability
- Confidence in presenting and defending ideas
- Deeper subject knowledge in a self-chosen area
- A formal qualification valued by top UK universities
Study your EPQ online with us
At Oxford Online School, students can take the EPQ as a standalone qualification or alongside other Sixth Form subjects. The course is delivered through small, live classes with clear structure and ongoing teacher support.
Find out more about our online sixth form.
Learn moreOutstanding EPQ results, achieved through expert online support
Our students consistently achieve exceptional EPQ outcomes, with 70% awarded an A or A*. Every learner benefits from live teaching, personalised guidance, and a structured approach that supports both academic success and independent research skills.
Apply nowNumber of EPQ Students:
Pass Rate:
Achieved A or A*:
Achieved B-D:
Who Does an EPQ Benefit?
The EPQ is a compulsory programme for all full-time A Level students at Oxford Online School. It is also open to students who wish to enrol solely for the EPQ, making it ideal for:
- University-bound students who want to strengthen their personal statement and stand out in applications.
- Learners eager to explore niche areas of interest
- Students preparing for research-intensive disciplines, including medicine, law, politics, or engineering.
- External A Level students who wish to benefit from expert EPQ guidance and assessment support.
What makes an EPQ different to an A Level?
Unlike an A Level subject, which follow set syllabuses and exams, the EPQ puts the student in control. They choose their topic, design their project, and manage their work from start to finish. This develops skills in independent research, time management, and problem-solving, just like at university or in professional life.
What makes the EPQ unique:
- Take ownership of every stage
- Develop initiative, resourcefulness, and self-discipline
- Build original arguments and communicate them clearly
At Oxford Online School, the EPQ offers:
- One-to-one mentoring throughout the project
- Research and academic writing workshops
- Presentation and communication coaching
- Completing the EPQ allows students to:
- Demonstrate commitment to independent study
- Enhance university applications (up to 28 UCAS points)
- Deepen knowledge beyond the A Level syllabus
How It Works
Students undertake a project in one of three forms:
- A 5,000-word academic dissertation
- A practical project with a written report (e.g. artwork, product design, or performance)
- An investigation or field study with analysis and evaluation
Structured Online Support
Our EPQ programme is delivered live online, with a focus on independent progress and reflective learning. Lessons are interactive and designed to:
- Build academic resilience and inquiry skills
- Encourage creativity, curiosity, and critical thinking
- Promote ethical research practices
Assessment
EPQ assessment considers both the process and the final outcome, focusing on the skills you develop throughout your project. You will be evaluated on:
- Project Planning and Organisation: How effectively you structure your project, manage your time, and track progress.
- Research and Source Evaluation: Your ability to select, analyse, and critically evaluate information from a wide range of credible sources.
- Decision-Making and Project Development: The reasoning behind your choices, how you adapt your approach, and evidence of critical thinking as you create your dissertation, artefact, or performance.
- Evaluation and Communication: Your capacity for honest self-reflection, thoughtful evaluation of your work, and confident presentation, including answering questions from a panel.
You’ll submit a production log, your completed project (report, artefact, or performance), supplementary evidence, and deliver a presentation, each contributing to your final EPQ grade.
Looking to study an EPQ or enrol in our online sixth form? Talk to our team.

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