AQA GCSE Computer Science (8525) Past Papers, Mark Schemes & Examiner Tips
Prepare for the updated AQA GCSE Computer Science (8525) specification, first examined in summer 2027, with past papers, official mark schemes and new-specification sample papers. Practise Paper 1: Computational Thinking and Programming Skills and Paper 2: Computing Concepts, while learning how marks are awarded and improving your exam technique. You can also jump to our examiner tips or read the frequently asked questions for practical 2027 exam guidance.
2027 AQA GCSE Computer Science (8525) New Specification Sample Papers
AQA GCSE Computer Science New Specification – First Exam 2027 | Downloads | |
Paper 1 – Computational Thinking and Programming Skills, Sample Set 1 | Not currently published by AQA | Not currently published by AQA |
Paper 2 – Computing Concepts, Sample Set 1 |
2025 AQA GCSE Computer Science (8525) Past Papers and Mark Schemes
2025 AQA GCSE Computer Science | Downloads | |
Paper 1A Computational Thinking and Programming Skills – C# (8525/1A) – June 2025 | ||
Paper 1B Computational Thinking and Programming Skills – Python (8525/1B) – June 2025 | ||
Paper 1C Computational Thinking and Programming Skills – VB.NET (8525/1C) – June 2025 | ||
Paper 2 Computing Concepts (8525/2) – June 2025 | Question paper not currently listed |
2024 AQA GCSE Computer Science (8525) Past Papers and Mark Schemes
2024 AQA GCSE Computer Science | Downloads | |
Paper 1A Computational Thinking and Programming Skills – C# (8525/1A) – June 2024 | ||
Paper 1B Computational Thinking and Programming Skills – Python (8525/1B) – June 2024 | ||
Paper 1C Computational Thinking and Programming Skills – VB.NET (8525/1C) – June 2024 | ||
Paper 2 Computing Concepts (8525/2) – June 2024 |
2023 AQA GCSE Computer Science (8525) Past Papers and Mark Schemes
2023 AQA GCSE Computer Science | Downloads | |
Paper 1A Computational Thinking and Programming Skills – C# (8525/1A) – June 2023 | ||
Paper 1B Computational Thinking and Programming Skills – Python (8525/1B) – June 2023 | ||
Paper 1C Computational Thinking and Programming Skills – VB.NET (8525/1C) – June 2023 | ||
Paper 2 Computing Concepts (8525/2) – June 2023 |
2022 AQA GCSE Computer Science (8525) Past Papers and Mark Schemes
2022 AQA GCSE Computer Science | Downloads | |
Paper 1A Computational Thinking and Programming Skills – C# (8525/1A) – June 2022 | ||
Paper 1B Computational Thinking and Programming Skills – Python (8525/1B) – June 2022 | ||
Paper 1C Computational Thinking and Programming Skills – VB.NET (8525/1C) – June 2022 | ||
Paper 2 Computing Concepts (8525/2) – June 2022 |
Six Examiner Tips for AQA GCSE Computer Science
1. Read the Entire Question and Avoid Hard-Coding
A common mistake is writing a program that works only with the example data given in the question. Your solution should work with any valid input, not just the values shown.
Before coding, read the complete question and identify every required input, process and output. Tick off each bullet point as you include it. If the question asks for a comparison, discuss both sides—for example, explain how a LAN differs from a WAN rather than describing only one network.
2. Use Precise Computer Science Terminology
Avoid vague words such as “stuff”, “things”, “built-in”, “faster” or “cheaper”. Examiners need to see accurate technical vocabulary and fully developed explanations.
Learn the specification definitions of key terms such as algorithm, abstraction, data type and cybersecurity. When making a claim, explain it. Instead of writing “cache is faster”, explain that cache has a faster access speed than RAM and stores frequently used data and instructions close to the CPU.
3. Write Code in the Required Programming Language
In Paper 1 programming questions, use the correct syntax for the high-level language in which you have been entered. Do not mix Python, C#, VB.NET and generic pseudocode.
For example, Python uses print(value), while C# uses Console.WriteLine(value);. You must also distinguish between outputting and returning a value. print() displays a result to the user, whereas return sends a value back to the part of the program that called the subroutine.
4. Check Identifiers, Operators and Indentation
Variable names must not contain spaces. Use valid, meaningful identifiers such as numberOfItems, totalScore or customerAge.
Write comparison operators correctly, including >=, <=, < and >. Do not use mathematical symbols such as ≥ or invalid operators such as =>. In Python, each Boolean condition must be complete:
if letter == "A" or letter == "B" or letter == "C":
Use the indentation guides on the exam paper carefully so that loops, selection statements and subroutines are structured clearly.
5. Prevent Indexing and range() Errors
Most programming languages used in the exam apply zero-based indexing. This means that the first item has index 0, and the final item in a list of length N has index N - 1.
When using Python, remember that the stop value in range() is not included. For example, range(5) produces the values 0, 1, 2, 3, 4. Check loop boundaries carefully to prevent off-by-one mistakes and attempts to access an item outside the list.
6. Show Every Step in Calculation Questions
Always show your working for binary and hexadecimal conversions, image sizes, sound file sizes, bit depths and other numerical questions.
Write down the formula, substitute the values, complete any unit conversions and then state the final answer with the correct unit. Even if your final answer contains a small arithmetic error, clear working may allow the examiner to award method marks.
AQA GCSE Computer Science 2027 FAQs
1. Which AQA GCSE Computer Science specification will be examined in 2027?
Students taking their exams in 2027 will study AQA GCSE Computer Science (8525) under the updated specification first taught from September 2025. The first examinations for this version of the qualification will take place in May and June 2027. View the official AQA specification.
2. How many AQA GCSE Computer Science exams are there in 2027?
There are two written examination papers:
Paper 1: Computational Thinking and Programming Skills – 2 hours, 90 marks and 50% of the GCSE.
Paper 2: Computing Concepts – 1 hour 45 minutes, 90 marks and 50% of the GCSE.
Both papers must be taken in the same examination series. Together, they provide a total of 180 marks. Check the official assessment structure.
3. What topics are assessed in AQA GCSE Computer Science Paper 1?
Paper 1 assesses fundamentals of algorithms and programming. Questions can cover computational thinking, code tracing, algorithm design, validation, testing, debugging and the writing or refinement of program code.
Students should practise reading unfamiliar code and writing complete solutions—not simply memorising definitions or individual commands.
4. What topics are assessed in AQA GCSE Computer Science Paper 2?
Paper 2 assesses:
Data representation
Computer systems
Computer networks
Cybersecurity
Relational databases and SQL
Ethical, legal and environmental impacts of digital technology
Although topics are divided between the two papers, AQA states that assessments may include synoptic questions requiring knowledge from different parts of the specification.
5. Which programming languages can be used in the 2027 exams?
AQA supports the following programming languages for exams from 2027:
Python 3
C#
Students should answer programming questions using the language taught by their school. They should use its correct syntax rather than generic pseudocode—for example, using print() in Python when asked to output a value. See AQA’s programming-language guidance.
6. Is AQA GCSE Computer Science Paper 1 completed on a computer?
No. Paper 1 is a written examination, even though it assesses programming skills. Students must be able to trace, explain, correct and write code on paper.
Practise handwriting code clearly, using accurate indentation, valid identifiers and the correct operators. Your solution should also work for all permitted inputs rather than only the examples given in the question.
7. Is there coursework or an NEA in AQA GCSE Computer Science?
There is no separately marked coursework or NEA component contributing to the final grade. However, students must receive practical programming experience during the course, including opportunities to design, write, test and refine programs.
Schools must submit a Practical Programming Statement confirming that students have been given these opportunities. The final GCSE grade is determined by the two examination papers.
8. Do students need to know SQL for the 2027 AQA Computer Science exam?
Yes. SQL and relational databases are assessed in Paper 2. Students should understand tables, records, fields, primary keys and foreign keys, and should be able to write or interpret SQL statements using commands such as SELECT, FROM, WHERE, UPDATE and DELETE.
Use proper SQL syntax rather than pseudocode terms such as SEARCH, GET or PRINT.
9. What is the best way to revise programming for AQA GCSE Computer Science Paper 1?
The most effective preparation is regular coding practice combined with written exam questions. Students should practise:
Designing algorithms before coding
Tracing code using test data
Writing selection and iteration correctly
Using strings, arrays or lists and subroutines
Validating inputs
Identifying syntax, logic and runtime errors
Testing with normal, boundary and erroneous data
Refining programs after identifying faults
Do not revise programming by memorising model answers alone. You must be able to apply the same skills to unfamiliar problems.
10. How should students prepare when there are no past papers for the new 2027 specification?
Because 2027 is the first examination series for the updated specification, students should begin with AQA’s sample assessment materials, specimen papers and mark schemes. They can also use relevant questions from the previous specification, but they should check that each question still matches the new subject content and paper structure.
When completing practice papers, work under timed conditions, show every step in calculation questions and compare answers carefully with the mark scheme. Keep a record of recurring mistakes so that each practice paper produces a clear revision target.
