Is this course for me?

If you’re someone who loves exploring big ideas, following your curiosity, and taking charge of your own learning, the OCR Level 3 EPQ could be perfect for you. It’s your chance to dive deep into something you genuinely care about — whether that’s a scientific question, a creative project, a social issue, or something completely unique. You choose the topic, you shape the project, and you steer it from start to finish.

The EPQ is made for independent thinkers who enjoy a challenge and want to stretch themselves beyond the classroom. It helps you build confidence, grow your skills, and create something you can be truly proud of — all while getting ready for university, apprenticeships, or future careers. It’s your opportunity to show what you’re capable of and make your interests come alive.

The Basics…

The EPQ (OCR H857) is a Level 3 qualification that can be completed alongside A Levels or vocational courses. You will:

• Select and refine your own project title and design your project proposal.
• Undertake independent research, develop ideas, and manage your time effectively.
• Produce a final outcome (report, artefact, performance, or investigation).
• Record your progress and reflections in a production log.
• Present your findings to an audience, demonstrating understanding and evaluation.

OCR emphasises that learners manage all stages of the project and develop a wide range of transferable skills including planning, research, analysis, evaluation, and communication.

What will I learn?

Throughout the EPQ, you will develop and apply skills that universities and employers highly value. These include:

• Independent learning — taking ownership of a substantial project from start to finish.
• Research and critical thinking — finding reliable sources, analysing information, and constructing reasoned arguments.
• Decision‑making and problem‑solving — adapting your project in response to challenges.
• Creativity and initiative — designing an original project that reflects your interests.
• Communication skills — presenting your findings clearly to others.
• Reflection and evaluation — reviewing your progress, considering what went well, and identifying areas for improvement.

These skills support both higher education readiness and effective workplace competencies.

Anything else I need to know?

• The EPQ includes taught skills sessions, such as research methods, referencing, project planning, and critical analysis.
• Assessment is entirely internal, moderated by OCR, and based on your project log, final outcome, and presentation.
• You will be supported by a supervisor, but the project decisions and direction remain your own.
• The EPQ carries UCAS points and is valued by universities because it demonstrates independence and academic maturity.
• It can be taken as a standalone qualification or as part of a broader programme.

Future careers:

The EPQ develops universal skills that benefit any academic or professional pathway. Its emphasis on research, critical thinking, creativity, and independence can support careers in:

• Medicine, healthcare, and scientific research
• Law, criminology, and social sciences
• Engineering, computing, and technology
• Business, marketing, management, and entrepreneurship
• Education, psychology, and counselling
• Creative industries, design, and media

The qualification encourages learners to use their project experience to support future study and career aspirations, making it a strong addition to UCAS applications, CVs, and interviews