AQA vs Edexcel GCSE Maths
Both boards set three papers of 80 marks and 90 minutes each, and both cover the same content. The differences are in layout and the order of calculator papers.
Yumio is not affiliated with, endorsed by or connected to AQA, Pearson Edexcel or any exam board. Check your own board's specification for the final word.
The papers side by side
| Paper | AQA | Edexcel |
|---|---|---|
| Paper 1 | 80 marks, 90 minutes, no calculator | 80 marks, 90 minutes, no calculator |
| Paper 2 | 80 marks, 90 minutes, calculator | 80 marks, 90 minutes, calculator |
| Paper 3 | 80 marks, 90 minutes, calculator | 80 marks, 90 minutes, calculator |
AQA GCSE Mathematics (8300) and Pearson Edexcel GCSE (9-1) Mathematics (1MA1) both use the same 80 marks per paper. Higher-tier papers have about 27 to 30 questions on AQA and about 17 to 24 on Edexcel in the sittings Yumio has looked at, so Edexcel questions are fewer and tend to carry more marks each.
Mark codes
AQA marks are M (method), A (accuracy) and B (independent). Edexcel also uses P (process) and C (communication). The idea is the same: show your method and you can earn marks even when the final answer is wrong.
What to do about it
- Learn the content once; it is the same for both.
- Sit papers laid out like your own board's. See the AQA Maths paper guide or the Edexcel Maths paper guide.
- Read the calculator guide so you know which paper allows one.
Questions students ask
Is AQA or Edexcel GCSE Maths harder?
Neither is harder in a way that matters for your revision. Both test the same content at the same grades. Learn the content, then practise the layout of your own board's papers.
Do I need to know which board I am taking?
Yes. Ask your teacher. Papers look a little different between boards, so practise on the right style.