If you want to stand out from the crowd in university applications then doing an EPQ is a really good way of demonstrating that you have gone above and beyond your studies. You take it alongside your level 3 course to stretch and challenge yourself in an area or activity of interest to you. It gives you the chance to get skills such as research, independent and self-directed learning that you'll need in higher education. You'll need to be keeping up and doing well in your main study program, enjoy essay writing and be able to manage your time well.