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About AQA A Level Biology
AQA A Level Biology is code 7402, with a DfE discount code of 1010 and an accreditation number of 601/4625/4. It has three papers, all 2 hours long. Paper 1 carries 91 marks and 35% of the A-level, Paper 2 carries 91 marks and 35%, and Paper 3 carries 78 marks and 30%. All three are scaled at one, giving a total scaled mark of 260. The A Level is graded on a six point scale of A star, A, B, C, D and E.
The content is divided once and then recombined. Paper 1 assesses any content from topics 1 to 4, Paper 2 assesses any content from topics 5 to 8, and Paper 3 assesses any content from topics 1 to 8. So the first two papers split the specification between them, and the third paper can ask about anything in it. All three include relevant practical skills.
Each paper ends with a different 15 mark task. Paper 1 has extended response questions, Paper 2 has a comprehension question, and Paper 3 has critical analysis of given experimental data. Paper 3 then adds a 25 mark essay chosen from a choice of two titles, which is the only place in the qualification where a student chooses a question. Before that, Paper 3 has 38 marks of structured questions including practical techniques.
Practical work is compulsory but it does not count towards the grade. AQA states that A-level grades will be based only on marks from written exams, and that a separate endorsement of practical skills is taken alongside the A Level, assessed by teachers by direct observation. Students must carry out the 12 required practicals, and 15% of the marks in the papers relate to practical work. If you want to see how A Level Biology compares across boards, that page sets them side by side.
Who AQA A Level Biology Is For
This course suits Year 13 students sitting AQA A Level Biology 7402 who need the topic split clear, Paper 3 treated as synoptic, and the practical endorsement understood as separate from the grade.
- Year 13 students sitting AQA A Level Biology 7402 at the end of the year
- Students who treat Paper 3 as a third of the content rather than all of it
- Students who have never written the 25 mark essay from a choice of two titles
- Students who assume the practical endorsement adds to their grade
- Private candidates, who can enter this specification but must be based in the UK
AQA A Level Biology: The Board We Cover
AQA is the board this page covers. Every fact here comes from AQA's own 7402 specification.
AQA
AQA's A Level Biology is code 7402: three 2 hour papers worth 35, 35 and 30 per cent. Paper 1 covers topics 1 to 4, Paper 2 topics 5 to 8, and Paper 3 all eight with an essay from a choice of two. Grades come from the written papers alone.
How Centaurus Helps AQA A Level Biology Students Excel
The Topic Split Taught Exactly
Paper 1 is topics 1 to 4 and Paper 2 is topics 5 to 8, so revision is organised around the two halves before Paper 3 recombines them.
Paper 3 Treated as Synoptic
Paper 3 can ask about any of the eight topics, so it is prepared as a whole course paper rather than as a third block of new content.
Three Different 15 Mark Tasks
Extended response, comprehension and critical analysis of experimental data are practised as separate skills, because each paper ends with a different one.
The Essay Choice Rehearsed
One essay from a choice of two titles is the only choice in the qualification, so selecting between titles and planning quickly is practised under time.
Practical Work Covered Without Confusion
The 12 required practicals and the separate endorsement are taught in full, with the grade resting only on the written papers, as AQA states.
24/7 Progress Reporting
Families get access to the Centaurus Academy LMS, with attendance, progress and lesson notes available to parents, students and teachers at any time.
Why Centaurus Stands Out
Choosing the right AQA A Level Biology support makes a real difference. Here is how Centaurus Academy compares with typical online providers.
Meet our Team Of Experts
Our expert tutors bring deep subject knowledge and a passion for teaching — helping every student reach their full potential.
What Parents Say About Us
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My child has gained confidence
I'm very satisfied with the dedication and teaching approach. My child has gained confidence and improved significantly in understanding math concepts, thanks to the teacher's clear explanations and supportive guidance.
AQA A Level Biology: Frequently Asked Questions
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