- International
To provide an advanced project-based qualification which can support progression to higher education internationally.
Available internationally from 2019 onwards.
The Cambridge International Project Qualification (IPQ) complements Cambridge International A & AS Levels which have been available internationally for more than 50 years.
The Cambridge IPQ can be seen as broadly comparable to the domestic Extended Project Qualification (EPQ).
- Cambridge Assessment International Education
Students complete a 5000-word research project on a topic of their own choice. They can choose a subject to complement one of their Cambridge International AS or A Levels, or a topic that they are passionate about. They devise and develop a research question, conduct research to answer this question, record their progress in a research log and write a research report.
This is a skills-based subject and the syllabus has no indicative content.
- Level 3
Comparable to Level 3 of the Regulatory Frameworks in England, Northern Ireland, and Wales.
Level 3 is broadly aligned to the Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF) Level 6 / 7.
Students will be eligible for grades A* – E.
Cambridge IPQ is a single component that is externally assessed (all projects are marked by Cambridge examiners). Candidates complete a research project on a topic of their own choice. The research report must not exceed 5000 words.
The assessment objectives (AOs) are:
- AO1: Research, analysis and evaluation. (70%)
- AO2: Reflection. (15%)
- AO3: Communication. (15%)
Cambridge IPQ is a single component.
Candidates can retake the Cambridge IPQ as many times as they want, but they must present new work each time they enter.
The syllabus is designed around 120 guided learning hours.
- HEPs can expect to receive applications from overseas students holding the Cambridge IPQ in addition to Cambridge International A Levels.
- HEPs are not expected to receive applications from UK students holding the Cambridge IPQ.
- HEPs may consider the IPQ in a similar way to the domestic EPQ (e.g. for alternative offers).
Results are released in mid-January for November exam series.
Results are released in mid-August for June exam series.
Results are released in June for the March exam series (India only).
First teaching for the Cambridge IPQ is from June 2019 onwards with first assessment in June 2020.
Cambridge International publishes annual certification information on its website at:
Cambridge International also provides certification information to UCAS and individual institutions worldwide.
Students can generally expect their grades to be considered as part of a wider suite of Cambridge International AS & A Levels for progression to Higher Education.
Further information can be found at: