Knowledge Centre

Use the menu on the left-hand side below to navigate our library of articles providing detailed information on apprenticeships...

What is the End-Point Assessment (EPA)?

The End Point Assessment is the final stage of an apprenticeship. It is an impartial assessment of whether your apprentice has developed the skills, knowledge and behaviours outlined in the apprenticeship standard.


The End Point Assessment is an opportunity for your apprentice to demonstrate they are genuinely competent in their job role at the end of their training and will only take place once you (the employer), your apprentice and the training provider are confident that your apprentice has developed the necessary knowledge, skills and behaviours defined in the apprenticeship standard. This should be clearly evidenced through the online progression review meetings and records.

The independent End Point Assessment ensures that your apprentices consistently achieve the industry-set professional standard. This can take place as soon as an apprentice is competent and after the twelve-month minimum period of learning and development.

Prior to their End Point Assessment, the Functional Skills components of the apprenticeship must be successfully completed.

The End Point Assessment process

Your apprentice will be assessed against the apprenticeship standard using various assessment methods. The assessment takes into account your apprentice’s overall performance in their job. The assessment activities will be completed by the independent End Point Assessment Organisation.

It may include:

  • An on-demand test
  • A practical observation
  • A professional discussion
  • A presentation or work-based project
  • A competency-based interview
  • Qualifications and on-programme assessment
  • A portfolio of evidence
  • A situational judgement test

An apprenticeship certificate is only awarded after the End Point Assessment is successfully completed.

Sign up to news, events and great resources