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About AQA GCSE Computer Science
AQA GCSE Computer Science is code 8525, and the first thing worth checking is the version, because this specification is written for GCSE exams in 2027 onwards. The file we work from is version 1.3, dated 16 June 2025. That is newer than most specifications a school may still be teaching to, so if your child sits before 2027, confirm which document the school is following, particularly around the programming languages.
There are two written papers. Paper 1 is Computational thinking and programming skills and lasts 2 hours. Paper 2 is Computing concepts and lasts 1 hour 45 minutes. Both are worth 90 marks and 50% of the GCSE, AQA scales both at x1, and the total scaled mark is 180. Paper 1 draws on subject content 3.1 and 3.2, which are fundamentals of algorithms and programming. Paper 2 draws on subject content 3.3 to 3.8, which run from data representation and computer systems through networks, cyber security and relational databases to the ethical, legal and environmental impacts of digital technology.
The two papers do not reward the same abilities, and the difference is stark. AQA weights Paper 1 at 25.6 for AO3 and only 4.4 for AO1, while Paper 2 is the mirror image at 25.6 for AO1 and 4.4 for AO3. AO3 is analysing problems in computational terms, making reasoned judgements, and designing, programming, evaluating and refining solutions. AO1 is knowing the key concepts and principles. So Paper 1 is almost entirely about building working solutions and Paper 2 is almost entirely about knowing the theory, with AO2 applying knowledge at 20 on each.
The entry code is not about tier, it is about language. AQA offers Option A in C#, Option B in Python and Option C in VB.NET, entered as 8525A, 8525B and 8525C, and all three carry the same DfE discount code of CK1. AQA states that in Paper 1 students will be required to design, write, test and refine program code in one of those three languages. There is no coursework and no non-exam assessment. If you want to see how GCSE Computer Science compares across boards, the subject page sets them side by side.
Who AQA GCSE Computer Science Is For
This course suits students sitting AQA GCSE Computer Science 8525 who need the programming paper and the concepts paper taught as two different exams rather than one subject.
- Year 10 and Year 11 students sitting AQA GCSE Computer Science 8525
- Families checking whether their child is on the version for exams from 2027
- Students who can write a working program but lose marks on the theory paper
- Students who know the theory but freeze when asked to design, write and refine code under time
- Private candidates, who can enter this subject without needing a host school, since there is no non-exam assessment
AQA GCSE Computer Science: The Board We Cover
AQA is the board this page covers. Every fact here comes from AQA's own 8525 specification for exams from 2027.
AQA
AQA's GCSE Computer Science is code 8525, with separate entry codes for C#, Python and VB.NET. Paper 1 runs 2 hours on programming and Paper 2 runs 1 hour 45 minutes on computing concepts, both 90 marks and 50%. Paper 1 is weighted almost entirely to designing and refining solutions, and Paper 2 almost entirely to knowing the concepts.
How Centaurus Helps AQA GCSE Computer Science Students Excel
The Two Papers Taught Separately
Paper 1 is weighted almost wholly to designing and refining solutions while Paper 2 is weighted almost wholly to knowledge, so each paper gets its own preparation rather than a shared revision plan.
Code Written Under Time
Paper 1 asks students to design, write, test and refine program code in an exam hall, so programming is practised against the clock on paper, not only in an editor.
The Theory Paper Given Its Own Clock
Paper 1 runs 2 hours and Paper 2 runs 1 hour 45 minutes, both for the same 90 marks, so Paper 2 is rehearsed at its own pace rather than inheriting the longer paper's rhythm.
SQL Covered as Programming
Paper 2 assesses SQL programming skills as well as theoretical knowledge, so structured query language is taught as code rather than as a definition to recite.
Synoptic Questions Prepared For
AQA warns both papers may ask questions requiring knowledge from across the whole specification, so no section is treated as finished with.
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 GCSE 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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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 GCSE Computer Science: Frequently Asked Questions
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