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About AQA AS Level Biology
AQA AS Level Biology is code 7401, with a DfE discount code of 1010 and an accreditation number of 601/4624/2. It has two papers, both 1 hour 30 minutes long and both carrying 75 marks, worth 50% of the AS each. Both papers assess any content from topics 1 to 4, and the two content statements are word for word identical. So there is no topic split between the papers, and a revision plan built on one paper covering the first two topics will leave a student unprepared. The AS is graded on a five point scale of A, B, C, D and E.
What separates the papers is question style rather than content. Each paper has 65 marks of short answer questions, and then 10 marks that differ: Paper 1 ends with a comprehension question, and Paper 2 ends with extended response questions. So Paper 1 asks students to interpret material placed in front of them, and Paper 2 asks them to write at length. Everything else about the two papers is the same, including the content and the length.
Practical work is compulsory but not separately assessed. AQA states that the six required practical activities must be carried out by all students, that assessment of practical skills in this AS specification will be by written exams only, and that the practical endorsement does not apply to the AS. The papers are written in the expectation that students have carried out at least those six activities, and 15% of the marks relate to practical work. A further 10% of marks require mathematical skills at least to the standard of higher tier GCSE mathematics.
There is one time critical point that applies to this subject and to no other so far. AQA states that from 2027, for UK overseas centres only, the AS specifications in Biology, Chemistry and Physics will no longer be available, with the last cohort for first teaching in September 2026, the last first sitting in summer 2027 and a final resit in September 2028. If you want to see how AS Level Biology compares across boards, that page sets them side by side.
Who AQA AS Level Biology Is For
This course suits Year 12 students sitting AQA AS Level Biology 7401 who need all four topics ready for both papers, the six required practical activities covered in writing, and the maths and practical marks treated as part of the plan.
- Year 12 students sitting AQA AS Level Biology 7401 at the end of the year
- Students who assume each paper covers half the topics and revise accordingly
- Students who can describe biology accurately but lose marks on data and calculations
- Students who have not carried out the six required practical activities and are relying on notes
- Private candidates based in the UK, since the specification is open to them but practicals are examined in writing
AQA AS Level Biology: The Board We Cover
AQA is the board this page covers. Every fact here comes from AQA's own 7401 specification.
AQA
AQA's AS Level Biology is code 7401: two 1 hour 30 minute papers of 75 marks, and both assess any content from topics 1 to 4. Paper 1 adds a comprehension question, Paper 2 extended response. Six required practical activities are examined inside the papers, with no endorsement at AS.
How Centaurus Helps AQA AS Level Biology Students Excel
Both Papers Cover All Four Topics
AQA states that each paper assesses any content from topics 1 to 4, so the whole course is revised for both papers instead of splitting topics between them.
Comprehension and Extended Response Drilled
Paper 1 ends with a comprehension question and Paper 2 with extended response, so both question styles are practised weekly alongside the short answer work.
Six Practicals Covered in Writing
The practical endorsement does not apply at AS, but the six required activities are examined inside the papers, so each one is written up and tested as an exam skill.
The 15% and 10% Floors Targeted
At least 15% of the marks relate to practical work and at least 10% require maths, so dilution series, mitotic indices and calculations are drilled as marks in their own right.
Objective Ranges Respected
AO1 falls from 47 to 51 on Paper 1 to 33 to 37 on Paper 2, while AO3 rises, so the recall paper and the reasoning paper are prepared differently.
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 AS 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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Centaurus Academy is truly one of the best educational institutions I've come across. The environment is nurturing, the staff are incredibly dedicated, and the quality of education is outstanding. They focus not only on academic excellence but also on character building and personal growth. The teachers are supportive and go the extra mile to ensure every student feels confident and motivated.
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 AS Level Biology: Frequently Asked Questions
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