AQA GCSE Computer Science (8525) Exam Dates 2026

AQA GCSE Computer Science (8525) Exam Dates 2026 (Summer Series)

AQA GCSE Computer Science (8525) has two papers in Summer 2026, both in the Afternoon (PM) session:

• Paper 1 (Programming skills) — you’ll sit one version depending on the language your centre uses

• Paper 2 (Computing concepts) — the same for everyone

Full timetable (8525)

Always check your centre’s exact start time on your personal timetable (schools can vary within the official session window).

What each paper is really testing (and how to prepare)

Paper 1: Programming skills (8525/1A / 1B / 1C)

This paper is about thinking like a programmer under pressure.
High-impact prep:

• reading code accurately (trace tables + dry runs)

• writing short, correct programs fast

• using functions/procedures properly

• arrays/lists + string manipulation

• structured solutions (decomposition + clear steps)

Tip: Most students don’t lose marks because they “can’t code” — they lose marks because they don’t plan. Train yourself to write:

1. inputs/outputs, 2) steps, 3) edge cases, then code.

Paper 2: Computing concepts (8525/2)

This paper rewards clear explanations and mark-scheme language.
High-impact prep:

• networks + protocols

• cyber security + threats + prevention

• databases + SQL basics

• hardware/software and memory/storage

• ethics, legal + environmental impacts

Don’t forget: contingency day (Summer 2026)

Keep Wednesday 24 June 2026 free until your exams officer confirms you’re finished (used nationally if exams are disrupted).

FAQs

Which Paper 1 do I sit: 1A, 1B, or 1C?

You sit one version based on your centre’s programming language:

• 1A = C#

• 1B = Python

• 1C = VB.Net

Are both exams in the afternoon?

Yes — AQA schedules both 8525 papers in the PM session for Summer 2026.

When should I start timed practice?

Start timed Paper 1 practice at least 6–8 weeks before 13 May 2026, then do one timed coding section every week.

Need help before May?

If Paper 1 coding questions or Paper 2 explanation questions are dragging your grade down, targeted coaching is usually the quickest fix.

Press “Book a lesson” at the top of the page.