AS & A2 Level Academics

Edexcel AS / A2 Level

6 subjects

Mathematics

Edexcel Mathematics AS/A2 Level

The Edexcel AS and A2 Level Mathematics courses offer a detailed study of advanced mathematical concepts, providing students with a solid foundation for further study in mathematics and related disciplines. The syllabus covers a wide range of topics in pure mathematics, mechanics, and statistics, with a focus on developing problem-solving and analytical skills.

Physics

Edexcel Physics AS/A2 Level

The Edexcel AS and A2 Level Physics courses offer a comprehensive study of physical principles, integrating theoretical knowledge with practical skills. The syllabus is designed to deepen students' understanding of physics concepts and prepare them for advanced studies in science and engineering.

Chemistry

Edexcel Chemistry AS/A2 Level

The Edexcel AS and A2 Level Chemistry courses provide a thorough exploration of chemical principles and practices. The syllabus covers fundamental concepts in chemistry and builds on these with advanced topics, equipping students with a solid foundation for further studies in chemistry and related fields.

Assessment Structure

Unit 1: Structure, Bonding and Introduction to Organic Chemistry - An AS Chemistry unit that introduces atomic structure, bonding, formulae, equations and the foundations of organic chemistry. Externally examined through a written paper of 1 hour 30 minutes, worth 80 marks.

Unit 2: Energetics, Group Chemistry, Halogenoalkanes and Alcohols - An AS Chemistry unit that covers energetics, intermolecular forces, redox chemistry, group chemistry, kinetics, equilibria and organic chemistry involving alcohols and halogen alkanes. Externally examined through a written paper of 1 hour 30 minutes, worth 80 marks.

Unit 3: Practical Skills in Chemistry I - An AS Chemistry practical-skills unit that assesses students' understanding of experimental procedures, practical techniques, data handling and analysis from Units 1 and 2. Externally examined through a written paper of 1 hour 20 minutes, worth 50 marks.

Unit 4: Rates, Equilibria and Further Organic Chemistry - An A2 Chemistry unit that develops students' understanding of chemical kinetics, equilibria, entropy and advanced organic reaction mechanisms. Externally examined through a written paper of 1 hour 45 minutes, worth 90 marks.

Unit 5: Transition Metals and Organic Nitrogen Chemistry - An A2 Chemistry unit that covers redox equilibria, transition metals, arenes, organic nitrogen compounds and further analytical techniques. Externally examined through a written paper of 1 hour 45 minutes, worth 90 marks.

Unit 6: Practical Skills in Chemistry II - An A2 Chemistry practical-skills unit that assesses advanced experimental skills, practical planning, analysis, evaluation and synoptic practical understanding. Externally examined through a written paper of 1 hour 20 minutes, worth 50 marks.

The AS and A2 Level Chemistry courses aim to develop a deep understanding of chemical principles, enhance practical laboratory skills, and prepare students for further study in chemistry, biochemistry, and other related fields.

Biology

Edexcel Biology AS/A2 Level

The Edexcel AS and A2 Level Biology courses provide a detailed exploration of biological principles and processes, preparing students for advanced studies or careers in biological sciences. The syllabus covers a range of topics from fundamental biology to more complex biological systems and processes.

Assessment Structure

Unit 1: Molecules, Diet, Transport and Health - An AS Biology unit that covers biological molecules, transport, health, membranes, proteins, DNA and gene expression. Externally examined through a written paper of 1 hour 30 minutes, worth 80 marks.

Unit 2: Cells, Development, Biodiversity and Conservation - An AS Biology unit that focuses on cell structure, reproduction, development, plant structure, biodiversity and conservation. Externally examined through a written paper of 1 hour 30 minutes, worth 80 marks.

Unit 3: Practical Skills in Biology I - An AS Biology practical-skills unit that assesses students' knowledge of experimental procedures, biological techniques, data analysis and practical application from Units 1 and 2. Externally examined through a written paper of 1 hour 20 minutes, worth 50 marks.

Unit 4: Energy, Environment, Microbiology and Immunity - An A2 Biology unit that covers energy flow, ecosystems, environmental biology, microbiology, immunity and forensic biology. Externally examined through a written paper of 1 hour 45 minutes, worth 90 marks.

Unit 5: Respiration, Internal Environment, Coordination and Gene Technology - An A2 Biology unit that develops understanding of respiration, muscles, homeostasis, coordination, response and gene technology. Externally examined through a written paper of 1 hour 45 minutes, worth 90 marks.

Unit 6: Practical Skills in Biology II - An A2 Biology practical-skills unit that assesses advanced experimental skills, biological investigation, data interpretation, evaluation and synoptic practical understanding. Externally examined through a written paper of 1 hour 20 minutes, worth 50 marks.

The AS and A2 Level Biology courses aim to deepen students' understanding of biological concepts, enhance their investigative skills, and prepare them for further academic or professional pursuits in the biological sciences.

Business Studies

Edexcel Business Studies AS/A2 Level

The Edexcel AS and A2 Level Business Studies courses provide students with a comprehensive understanding of business concepts, practices, and strategic decision-making. The syllabus covers core aspects of business management, including operations, marketing, finance, and human resources, preparing students for further studies in business and related fields.

Every unit is assessed by an externally marked written examination of 2 hours worth 80 marks.

Assessment Structure

Unit 1: Marketing and People - An AS Business unit that introduces students to the market, customer needs, marketing strategy, managing people, entrepreneurs and business leadership. Students learn how businesses identify opportunities, understand customer behaviour, develop competitive advantage and manage employees effectively. The paper includes short and extended-response questions based on sources, with Section A worth 30 marks, Section B worth 30 marks, and Section C containing one 20-mark essay question.

Unit 2: Managing Business Activities - An AS Business unit that focuses on planning a business, raising finance, financial planning, managing finance, resource management and external influences on business activity. Students develop an understanding of how businesses organise resources, manage costs, make financial decisions and respond to economic and market changes. The paper has Section A worth 30 marks, Section B worth 30 marks, and Section C containing one 20-mark essay question based on one or more sources.

Unit 3: Business Decisions and Strategy - An A2 Business unit that develops students' understanding of business objectives, strategy, growth, decision-making techniques, influences on business decisions, competitiveness and managing change. This unit requires students to apply business theory to more complex situations and evaluate strategic decisions made by businesses. The paper includes Section A worth 40 marks, Section B with one 20-mark essay question, and Section C with one 20-mark essay question.

Unit 4: Global Business - An A2 Business unit that focuses on globalisation, global markets, business expansion, global marketing, multinational corporations and the impact of international business activity. Students are expected to understand how businesses operate in global markets and evaluate opportunities and challenges faced by firms internationally. The paper includes Section A worth 40 marks, Section B with one 20-mark essay question, and Section C with one 20-mark essay question.

The AS and A2 Level Business Studies courses aim to develop students' understanding of business principles, enhance their analytical and strategic thinking skills, and prepare them for further study or careers in business and management.

Information Technology

Edexcel Information Technology AS/A2 Level

The Edexcel AS and A2 Level Information Technology (IT) courses provide students with a comprehensive understanding of IT concepts and their practical applications. The syllabus covers a range of topics from fundamental IT principles to advanced applications, preparing students for further study or careers in the IT field.

Every unit is worth 80 marks.

Assessment Structure

Unit 1: Information Technology Systems - An AS Information Technology unit that covers hardware and software, networks, the online environment, IT systems, data and databases, and wider issues in technology. Students learn how digital technologies work together, how systems are used in society, and how IT solutions can be selected and evaluated. Assessed by an externally marked written examination of 2 hours. The paper may include multiple-choice, short open-response, open-response and extended open-response questions, and candidates must answer all questions.

Unit 2: Web and Digital Development - An AS Information Technology practical unit that focuses on HTML, CSS, JavaScript, web-page design and the semantic web. Students develop practical understanding of how web technologies are used to design and create digital solutions. Assessed by an externally marked practical written examination of 3 hours. The paper includes theoretical and practical questions, and some responses may require students to use provided data files and submit files during the examination. Each candidate needs access to a computer.

Unit 3: Using and Managing IT Systems - An A2 Information Technology unit that covers manipulating data, enabling technologies, using IT systems in organisations, systems development and emerging technologies. Students learn how IT is used in business and organisational contexts, and they are expected to analyse, evaluate and design appropriate solutions for IT problems. Assessed by an externally marked written examination of 2 hours. The paper may include short open-response, open-response and extended open-response questions, and candidates must answer all questions.

Unit 4: Database Solutions - An A2 Information Technology practical unit that focuses on database features, relational database concepts and database solutions. Students are assessed on their ability to understand, design, develop, test and evaluate database-based solutions using appropriate IT tools and techniques. Assessed by an externally marked practical written examination of 3 hours. Data files are provided for some questions, all responses are submitted using a word-processed candidate evidence template, and each candidate needs access to a computer during the examination.

The AS and A2 Level IT courses aim to provide students with a robust understanding of IT concepts, enhance practical skills, and prepare them for further study or careers in information technology and related fields.

Cambridge AS / A2 Level

7 subjects

9701

Chemistry

Cambridge Chemistry AS/A2 Level (9701)

The Cambridge International AS & A Level Chemistry course develops a strong understanding of physical, inorganic and organic chemistry. Students explore atomic structure, bonding, energetics, equilibria, reaction kinetics, electrochemistry, organic reactions and analytical techniques. The course combines theoretical knowledge with practical investigation, data analysis and scientific problem-solving, preparing students for university-level study in chemistry, medicine, engineering and related sciences.

9700

Biology

Cambridge Biology AS/A2 Level (9700)

The Cambridge International AS & A Level Biology course develops students' understanding of living organisms from cellular and molecular processes to whole organisms, populations and ecosystems. Students study cell structure, biological molecules, enzymes, transport, disease, immunity, respiration, photosynthesis, genetics, evolution, biodiversity and genetic technology. Practical investigation and scientific data analysis are important parts of the course.

9702

Physics

Cambridge Physics AS/A2 Level (9702)

The Cambridge International AS & A Level Physics course develops a deep understanding of fundamental physical principles and their applications. Students study mechanics, materials, waves, electricity, particle physics, fields, thermodynamics, oscillations, quantum physics, nuclear physics, medical physics, astronomy and cosmology. The course strongly emphasises mathematical reasoning, experimental skills and problem-solving.

9709

Mathematics

Cambridge Mathematics AS/A2 Level (9709)

The Cambridge International AS & A Level Mathematics course develops logical thinking, mathematical modelling, problem-solving and analytical skills. Students study pure mathematics alongside optional applied areas in mechanics and probability and statistics. The qualification provides different paper combinations so schools and students can select a route that supports their intended university studies.

Assessment Structure

Paper 1: Pure Mathematics 1 — This compulsory paper covers quadratics, functions, coordinate geometry, circular measure, trigonometry, series, differentiation and integration. The examination lasts 1 hour 50 minutes and is worth 75 marks.

Paper 2: Pure Mathematics 2 — This paper is available only for the AS Level Pure Mathematics route. It covers algebra, logarithmic and exponential functions, trigonometry, differentiation, integration and numerical solutions. The examination lasts 1 hour 15 minutes and is worth 50 marks. This route cannot be carried forward to complete the full A Level.

Paper 3: Pure Mathematics 3 — This compulsory A Level paper covers advanced algebra, logarithmic and exponential functions, trigonometry, differentiation, integration, numerical methods, vectors, differential equations and complex numbers. The examination lasts 1 hour 50 minutes and is worth 75 marks.

Paper 4: Mechanics — This applied paper covers forces, equilibrium, motion, momentum, Newton's laws and energy. The examination lasts 1 hour 15 minutes and is worth 50 marks.

Paper 5: Probability and Statistics 1 — This paper covers data representation, permutations and combinations, probability, discrete random variables and the normal distribution. The examination lasts 1 hour 15 minutes and is worth 50 marks.

Paper 6: Probability and Statistics 2 — This advanced paper covers the Poisson distribution, continuous random variables, sampling, estimation and hypothesis testing. The examination lasts 1 hour 15 minutes and is worth 50 marks.

For AS Level, students take Paper 1 with Paper 2, Paper 4 or Paper 5. For the full A Level, students take either Papers 1, 3, 4 and 5 or Papers 1, 3, 5 and 6.

9609

Business Studies

Cambridge Business Studies AS/A2 Level (9609)

The official Cambridge syllabus title is Business. The course enables students to understand how businesses operate, make decisions and respond to changes in their internal and external environments. Students study enterprise, business structure, human resource management, marketing, operations management, finance and accounting. At A Level, students also examine business strategy and make justified recommendations using quantitative and qualitative information.

9626

Information Technology

Cambridge Information Technology AS/A2 Level (9626)

The Cambridge International AS & A Level Information Technology course develops theoretical knowledge and practical IT skills. Students study data processing, hardware, software, monitoring and control, algorithms, cybersecurity, databases, spreadsheets, multimedia, communication technology, project management, systems development and emerging technologies. Students also learn to create effective IT solutions for business and creative contexts.

9618

Computer Science

Cambridge Computer Science AS/A2 Level (9618)

The Cambridge International AS & A Level Computer Science course develops computational thinking, programming and problem-solving skills. Students study data representation, communication, computer hardware, processor architecture, system software, security, databases, algorithms, data structures and software development. At A Level, students progress to advanced programming, artificial intelligence, recursion, file organisation, virtual machines and different programming paradigms.

AQA AS / A2 Level

6 subjects

7404 / 7405

Chemistry

AQA Chemistry AS/A Level (7404 / 7405)

The AQA AS and A Level Chemistry courses develop students' understanding of physical, inorganic and organic chemistry. Students study atomic structure, calculations involving substances, chemical bonding, energetics, kinetics, equilibria, redox reactions, periodicity and organic reactions. At A Level, students progress to thermodynamics, rate equations, electrochemistry, acids and bases, transition metals, organic synthesis, spectroscopy and chromatography. Practical skills, mathematical reasoning, data analysis and scientific evaluation are integrated throughout the course.

Assessment Structure

AS Level Chemistry

Paper 1: Assesses selected physical chemistry topics, inorganic chemistry and relevant practical skills. It contains short-answer, long-answer and multiple-choice questions. The written examination lasts 1 hour 30 minutes, is worth 80 marks and contributes 50% of the AS qualification.
Paper 2: Assesses selected physical chemistry topics, organic chemistry and relevant practical skills. It contains short-answer, long-answer and multiple-choice questions. The written examination lasts 1 hour 30 minutes, is worth 80 marks and contributes 50% of the AS qualification.

A Level Chemistry

Paper 1: Assesses physical chemistry, inorganic chemistry and relevant practical skills. The written examination lasts 2 hours, is worth 105 marks and contributes 35% of the A Level qualification.
Paper 2: Assesses physical chemistry, organic chemistry and relevant practical skills. The written examination lasts 2 hours, is worth 105 marks and contributes 35% of the A Level qualification.
Paper 3: May assess any topic from the complete specification and any practical skills. It includes questions on practical techniques, data analysis, synoptic understanding and multiple-choice questions. The written examination lasts 2 hours, is worth 90 marks and contributes 30% of the A Level qualification.

Practical Endorsement: A Level students complete at least 12 required practical activities. Their practical competency is assessed by the teacher and reported separately as Pass or Not Classified. It does not contribute to the numerical A Level grade.

7401 / 7402

Biology

AQA Biology AS/A Level (7401 / 7402)

The AQA AS and A Level Biology courses develop students' understanding of biological systems from molecules and cells to organisms, populations and ecosystems. Students study biological molecules, cell structure, transport, genetic information and variation. At A Level, students also examine energy transfers, responses to internal and external changes, genetics, evolution, ecosystems and the control of gene expression. The course develops practical investigation, mathematical application, data interpretation and scientific evaluation skills.

Assessment Structure

AS Level Biology

Paper 1: Assesses topics 1–4 and relevant practical skills. It includes short-answer questions and a comprehension question. The written examination lasts 1 hour 30 minutes, is worth 75 marks and contributes 50% of the AS qualification.
Paper 2: Also assesses topics 1–4 and relevant practical skills. It includes short-answer and extended-response questions. The written examination lasts 1 hour 30 minutes, is worth 75 marks and contributes 50% of the AS qualification.

A Level Biology

Paper 1: Assesses biological molecules, cells, exchanges with the environment, genetic information, variation and relevant practical skills. The examination lasts 2 hours, is worth 91 marks and contributes 35% of the A Level qualification.
Paper 2: Assesses energy transfers, responses to environmental changes, genetics, populations, evolution, ecosystems, gene expression and relevant practical skills. The examination lasts 2 hours, is worth 91 marks and contributes 35% of the A Level qualification.
Paper 3: Assesses content from all eight topics and relevant practical skills. It includes structured questions, critical analysis of experimental data and one essay chosen from two titles. The examination lasts 2 hours, is worth 78 marks and contributes 30% of the A Level qualification.

Practical Endorsement: Students complete at least 12 required practical activities. Practical competency is assessed by the teacher and reported separately as Pass or Not Classified. It does not contribute to the overall A Level grade.

7407 / 7408

Physics

AQA Physics AS/A Level (7407 / 7408)

The AQA AS and A Level Physics courses develop students' understanding of physical principles, mathematical relationships and experimental investigation. AS students study measurements, particles, radiation, waves, mechanics, materials and electricity. A Level students also study further mechanics, thermal physics, fields, nuclear physics and one optional topic such as astrophysics, medical physics, engineering physics, turning points or electronics.

Assessment Structure

AS Level Physics

Paper 1: Assesses measurements, particles and radiation, waves, mechanics, materials and electricity. It contains short-answer and long-answer questions arranged by topic. The examination lasts 1 hour 30 minutes, is worth 70 marks and contributes 50% of the AS qualification.
Paper 2: Assesses the complete AS content, practical skills and data analysis. It contains practical and data-analysis questions, questions covering different areas of the syllabus and 30 multiple-choice questions. The examination lasts 1 hour 30 minutes, is worth 70 marks and contributes 50% of the AS qualification.

A Level Physics

Paper 1: Assesses measurements, particles and radiation, waves, mechanics, materials, electricity and periodic motion. It contains short-answer, long-answer and multiple-choice questions. The examination lasts 2 hours, is worth 85 marks and contributes 34% of the A Level qualification.
Paper 2: Assesses thermal physics, fields, nuclear physics and assumed knowledge from earlier topics. It contains short-answer, long-answer and multiple-choice questions. The examination lasts 2 hours, is worth 85 marks and contributes 34% of the A Level qualification.
Paper 3: Assesses practical skills, experimental data analysis and one optional topic selected by the school. The examination lasts 2 hours, is worth 80 marks and contributes 32% of the A Level qualification.

Practical Endorsement: Students complete at least 12 required practical activities. Practical competency is assessed by the teacher and reported separately as Pass or Not Classified, without contributing to the overall A Level grade.

7356 / 7357

Mathematics

AQA Mathematics AS/A Level (7356 / 7357)

The AQA AS and A Level Mathematics courses develop mathematical argument, proof, problem-solving and modelling skills. Students study pure mathematics together with statistics and mechanics. Topics include algebra, functions, coordinate geometry, sequences, trigonometry, logarithms, differentiation, integration, vectors, probability, statistical distributions, hypothesis testing, kinematics, forces and Newton's laws. A Level students also study numerical methods and moments.

7137 / 7138

Business

AQA Business AS/A Level (7137 / 7138)

The AQA AS and A Level Business courses develop students' understanding of how businesses are established, managed and developed. Students study business objectives, stakeholders, marketing, finance, people management, operations and organisational culture. At A Level, students also examine business ethics, environmental responsibilities, external influences, global strategy, strategic planning and the management of change.

The structure below uses the new AQA Business specifications 7137 and 7138, which begin teaching in September 2026. The first AS examinations are in 2027 and the first A Level examinations are in 2028.

Assessment Structure

AS Level Business

Paper 1: What Is Business? Managing Marketing and Finance — Assesses business objectives, forms of business, stakeholders, marketing management and financial management. The examination contains two case studies, each followed by six compulsory questions. It lasts 1 hour 45 minutes, is worth 80 marks and contributes 50% of the AS qualification.
Paper 2: Managing People and Operations — Assesses people management and operations management, with links to the content assessed in Paper 1. The examination contains two case studies, each followed by six compulsory questions. It lasts 1 hour 45 minutes, is worth 80 marks and contributes 50% of the AS qualification.

A Level Business

Paper 1: Managing Marketing and Finance — Assesses business objectives, stakeholders, marketing and financial management. The examination contains two case studies, each followed by five compulsory questions. It lasts 2 hours, is worth 90 marks and contributes 33⅓% of the A Level qualification.
Paper 2: Managing People and Operations — Assesses people management, operations management and business culture, with links to the Paper 1 content. The examination contains two case studies, each followed by five compulsory questions. It lasts 2 hours, is worth 90 marks and contributes 33⅓% of the A Level qualification.
Paper 3: Business, Society, External Environment and Strategy — Assesses business and society, the external business environment, strategy and change, with links to the complete course. The examination contains two case studies, each followed by five compulsory questions. It lasts 2 hours, is worth 90 marks and contributes 33⅓% of the A Level qualification.

7516 / 7517

Computer Science

AQA Computer Science AS/A Level (7516 / 7517)

The AQA AS and A Level Computer Science courses develop computational thinking, programming, logical reasoning and problem-solving skills. Students study programming, data structures, algorithms, data representation, computer systems, processor architecture, networking and the social consequences of technology. At A Level, students also study databases, big data, functional programming and complete an independent computing project.

Assessment Structure

AS Level Computer Science

Paper 1: Programming and Problem-Solving — Assesses programming, data structures, systematic problem-solving and theory of computation. It is an on-screen examination in which students answer questions and write, adapt or extend programs using preliminary material and a skeleton program. The examination lasts 1 hour 45 minutes, is worth 75 marks and contributes 50% of the AS qualification.
Paper 2: Computer Systems and Networks — Assesses data representation, computer systems, computer organisation and architecture, the consequences of computing, communication and networking. It contains short-answer and extended-answer questions. The written examination lasts 1 hour 30 minutes, is worth 75 marks and contributes 50% of the AS qualification.

A Level Computer Science

Paper 1: Programming and Computational Thinking — Assesses programming, data structures, algorithms, theory of computation and systematic problem-solving. It is an on-screen examination in which students answer questions and write, adapt or extend programs. The examination lasts 2 hours 30 minutes, is worth 100 raw marks and contributes 40% of the A Level qualification.
Paper 2: Computer Systems and Advanced Theory — Assesses data representation, computer systems, processor architecture, networking, databases, big data and functional programming. It contains compulsory short-answer and extended-answer questions. The written examination lasts 2 hours 30 minutes, is worth 100 raw marks and contributes 40% of the A Level qualification.
Non-Exam Assessment: Computing Practical Project — Students identify and investigate a practical problem before analysing, designing, developing, testing and evaluating a programmed solution. The project is worth 75 marks and contributes 20% of the A Level qualification.

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GCSE & IGCSE

22 subjects across Edexcel, Cambridge and AQA

View GCSE / IGCSE

AS & A2 Level Academics

Edexcel AS / A2 Level

Mathematics

Physics

Chemistry

Biology

Business Studies

Information Technology

Cambridge AS / A2 Level

Chemistry

Biology

Physics

Mathematics

Business Studies

Information Technology

Computer Science

AQA AS / A2 Level

Chemistry

Biology

Physics

Mathematics

Business

Computer Science

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