Reasonable adjustments in end-point assessment and apprenticeship assessment
How reasonable adjustments work in apprenticeship assessment and EPA after the 2025 reforms, who decides, what evidence helps and a timeline for providers.
Glossary
What is end-point assessment (EPA)? Apprenticeship EPA explained
End-point assessment is the final independent assessment of an apprentice's occupational competence. How it works and how reasonable adjustments apply.
End-point assessment
Glossary term · 2 sources
Definition
End-point assessment (EPA) is the final, independent assessment an apprentice takes at the end of an apprenticeship to show they have achieved the standard, carried out by an organisation separate from the employer and training provider. Reasonable adjustments can be made so a disabled apprentice is not disadvantaged.
End-point assessment, usually shortened to EPA, is the last hurdle in most apprenticeships. It is where adjustments are most often forgotten.
What is end-point assessment?
Each apprenticeship standard sets out an assessment plan. The apprentice completes training and then, once the employer is satisfied they are ready (the gateway), takes the EPA. Methods vary by standard and may include a practical observation, a professional discussion, a project, a knowledge test or a portfolio. The assessment is delivered by an end-point assessment organisation (EPAO) that is independent of the employer and training provider, and the apprentice is graded against the standard. A pass is needed to complete the apprenticeship.
How do reasonable adjustments apply to EPA?
Several parties owe duties. The EPAO acts as a qualification body, and section 96 of the Equality Act 2010 requires qualification bodies to make reasonable adjustments for disabled people. The employer owes duties as an employer, and the training provider as a provider. An adjustment must not change what is being assessed. For example, extra time, a reader, a quiet room, assistive technology, rest breaks, a different format for materials, or a different location can often be made without altering the standard. Changing the standard itself is not an adjustment.
Government guidance on apprenticeship learning support says eligible costs can include support for the apprenticeship assessment, such as additional staff support, extended or more frequent assessor visits, specialist equipment and extra time in exams and tests. The guidance calls it the apprenticeship assessment, so check how it is described in the current funding rules.
How does EPA apply in FE and apprenticeships?
Preparation should start long before the gateway. A good provider records the adjustments used throughout the apprenticeship, with evidence that they worked. That evidence helps the EPAO decide what to approve. Ask the EPAO for its reasonable adjustment policy and application deadlines at the start of the programme. Our guide to reasonable adjustments in end-point assessment sets out a timeline. Related reading: the reasonable adjustments for apprentices guide, and the entry on off-the-job training.
What is a common misconception about EPA?
The common error is to assume that adjustments used in training automatically carry into the EPA. They do not. EPAOs set their own processes and may need evidence and advance notice. Another misconception is that a reasonable adjustment means a lower bar. It means the same bar assessed fairly. A third is that the provider alone is responsible. The EPAO, employer and provider each have a part.
Where can you find the official source?
Read section 96 of the Equality Act 2010, the government guidance on support for apprentices with learning difficulties and disabilities, and the apprenticeship funding rules for the current year. The standard and assessment plan for each apprenticeship are published by the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education. The ESFA, which used to publish funding rules, closed in March 2025 and the DfE now does so.
Frequently asked questions
Who delivers the end-point assessment?
An end-point assessment organisation (EPAO) approved for that apprenticeship standard, chosen by the employer. It must be independent of the apprentice's training.
Can an apprentice get extra time or other adjustments in EPA?
Adjustments can be made where the apprentice has a disability or learning difficulty, provided the assessment still measures the standard. Raise the need with the EPAO well before the assessment.
Who pays for adjustments for EPA?
Costs can fall in different places. Government guidance on apprenticeship learning support funding says eligible costs can include support during the apprenticeship assessment, such as extra time or specialist equipment, but check the current funding rules and your EPAO's policy.
Sources and further reading
- Support for apprentices with learning difficulties and disabilities (gov.uk)
- Equality Act 2010, section 96 (legislation.gov.uk)
Official guidance changes. Check the source before relying on any detail, and take professional advice for individual cases.
Help shape the pilot
We are working with a small number of England FE colleges and apprenticeship providers first. Tell us about your learner support and we will be in touch.