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About AQA AS Level Computer Science
AQA AS Level Computer Science is code 7516, with a DfE discount code of 2610 and an accreditation number of 601/4699/0. It has two papers, each worth 50% of the AS. Paper 1 is an on-screen exam lasting 1 hour 45 minutes, and Paper 2 is a written exam lasting 1 hour 30 minutes, so the two papers differ in length and in medium as well as in content. The entry code also carries a letter, because the qualification is entered against a chosen programming language.
The content splits without overlap. Paper 1 tests programming ability and theoretical knowledge from subject content 1 to 4, which are fundamentals of programming, fundamentals of data structures, a systematic approach to problem solving, and theory of computation. Paper 2 asks questions on subject content 5 to 9, which are fundamentals of data representation, fundamentals of computer systems, fundamentals of computer organisation and architecture, consequences of uses of computing, and fundamentals of communication and networking.
Paper 1 is sat on a computer. Students answer short questions and write, adapt or extend programs in an Electronic Answer Document provided by AQA, and AQA issues preliminary material, a skeleton program available in each programming language, and where appropriate test data for use in the exam. So a real part of the preparation is worked on material the student already has well before the exam. Paper 2 is a written paper of short-answer and extended-answer questions.
The assessment objectives are divided very unevenly between the papers. AO1 is 7% on Paper 1 and 28% on Paper 2, while AO3 is 27% on Paper 1 and 3% on Paper 2. So one paper rewards knowledge and the other rewards analysing problems and writing programs. There is no non-exam assessment at AS, because the computing practical project belongs to the A Level. If you want to see how AS Level Computer Science compares across boards, that page sets them side by side.
Who AQA AS Level Computer Science Is For
This course suits Year 12 students sitting AQA AS Level Computer Science 7516 who need the programming paper and the theory paper prepared as different exams, with the skeleton program used properly and the language option checked at entry.
- Year 12 students sitting AQA AS Level Computer Science 7516 at the end of the year
- Students who can code confidently but lose marks on the written theory paper
- Students who know the theory but have not practised writing programs by hand under time
- Students who leave the skeleton program and preliminary material until the last week
- Private candidates based in the UK, who need a centre able to host an on-screen exam
AQA AS Level Computer Science: The Board We Cover
AQA is the board this page covers. Every fact here comes from AQA's own 7516 specification.
AQA
AQA's AS Level Computer Science is code 7516, entered with a language option A, B, D or E. Paper 1 is a 1 hour 45 minute on-screen programming exam with a skeleton program issued in advance. Paper 2 is a 1 hour 30 minute written theory paper, and there is no coursework at AS.
How Centaurus Helps AQA AS Level Computer Science Students Excel
Programming and Theory Split
Paper 1 rewards programming and Paper 2 rewards written theory, with no overlap in content, so each paper gets its own practice regime rather than one combined revision plan.
The Skeleton Program Used Early
AQA issues preliminary material and a skeleton program before the exam, so that material is worked through from release rather than opened in the final week.
On-Screen Exam Practice
Students write, adapt and extend programs in an Electronic Answer Document, so practice happens on screen and to time rather than on paper.
Objective Split Targeted
AO1 is 7 on Paper 1 and 28 on Paper 2, while AO3 is 27 on Paper 1 and 3 on Paper 2, so weak papers are diagnosed by objective rather than by topic.
Language Choice Checked
The entry code ends in A, B, D or E to record C#, Java, Python or VB.Net, so the option is confirmed before the entry is submitted rather than assumed.
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 Computer Science 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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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 Computer Science: Frequently Asked Questions
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