This page covers frequently asked questions (FAQs) for apprentices when it comes to end point assessment (EPA). Training providers can speak to their 1st for EPA Account Manager if they have any questions not answered here. Employers are welcome to get in touch directly.
- What is the deadline for completing my project or EPA?
You’ll find all deadlines in your Toolkit, in the Timescales section.
- How do I submit my project?
You should email your project, along with the front sheet and mapping document (if relevant to your standard), to your training provider. They will then upload this to our portal.
- How do I book EPA?
You should agree dates for your end point assessment with your training provider. Make sure these are within the deadlines given in the Toolkit. Your training provider will then book your EPA through our online system. Once confirmed, you’ll receive a confirmation email containing details of the assessment and a link to join the video call. If you don’t receive this, please check your Junk folder and if it hasn’t arrived, let your training provider know. We may not have your correct email address.
- Do I have to pay for EPA?
No, apprentices cannot be asked to pay for their apprenticeship, end point assessment, resits, retakes, or any cancellation costs.
- My project report contains confidential information. What should I do?
Your report is only accessible by your training provider, 1st for EPA staff who require access, and our external quality assurers (if required). We never share your information with anyone else. If you cannot include confidential information, we recommend you:
- Anonymise names by using the job title instead.
- Use percentages instead of actual figures to indicate increases/decreases.
- Redact information if necessary. Please take care to ensure you do not redact anything that would prevent you demonstrating the assessment criteria, as the assessor can only mark what they see.
- I need a reasonable adjustment to help me through my EPA. How can I request this?
If you have a learning difficulty, disability or health problem, or you require any extra support to undertake your EPA, you can request this. Please read the Reasonable Adjustment and Special Consideration Policy and complete a request form – both can be found here.
- Can I take my EPA from home?
Yes, this is fine as long as you have a webcam and a strong internet connection. Make sure you have a quiet space where you won’t be disturbed. The assessor or invigilator is trained to look for signs of malpractice, and if necessary they may ask you to use the webcam to show the room you’re in or ask you to confirm you’re alone.
- I’ve scheduled my assessment but cannot make it. What do I do?
Contact your training provider to ask about rearranging. Please be aware that any EPA cancelled or rescheduled within 15 working days of the booking date will be subject to a cancellation fee.
- I’ve had an emergency and cannot meet my project deadline. What should I do?
Don’t worry, we have a process to support you. When you’re able to, inform your training provider so they can notify us. If you need an extension, we will ask you to complete a Reasonable Adjustment and Special Consideration Request. Please note that the extension you request does need to be reasonable, and not give any advantage over other apprentices.
The assessor needs to review your project before you undergo the final EPA, so please be aware that any delay may result in your final EPA date being pushed back.
- What do I need to do on the day of the assessment?
Organise your time so you’re set up and can access the meeting on time. Bring photographic ID, such as a driving license or company identity card.
Most apprenticeship standards allow you to bring notes into the live assessment, so bring these with you if you wish. Some apprentices also find it useful to have the assessment criteria (knowledge, skills and behaviours) handy.
You may also have water with you. Headphones are not allowed to be used during assessment (apart from during a workplace observation).
- What happens if I fail?
Some apprentices do fail their EPA first time, and the important thing is not to panic. It’s not the end of the road, and this is exactly why resits are available. You might find this article useful – it gives tips on how to prepare for a resit.
- I can’t find the answer to my question. Who should I ask?
You’ll find the answer to most questions in your Toolkit. For anything else, ask your training provider. If they can’t help, they will speak to us on your behalf.
