Jan 10, 2026
Edexcel GCSE Computer Science Exam Dates 2026
Official Summer 2026 exam dates for Pearson Edexcel GCSE Computer Science (1CP2) — Paper 1 and the on-screen Paper 2 dates, sessions, durations, and what to revise for each paper.
Edexcel GCSE Computer Science Exam Dates 2026 (Summer Series)
Pearson Edexcel GCSE Computer Science (1CP2) has two papers in Summer 2026 — both in the Afternoon (PM) session. Paper 2 is on-screen.
Full timetable (1CP2)
Paper | Paper title | Exam code | Date (2026) | Session | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Paper 1 | Principles of Computer Science | 1CP2/01 | Wednesday 13 May 2026 | PM | 1h 30m |
Paper 2 (On-screen) | Application of Computational Thinking | 1CP2/02 | Tuesday 19 May 2026 | PM | 2h |
Always check your centre’s exact start time and on-screen setup details on your personal timetable.
What to revise for each Edexcel paper
Paper 1: Principles of Computer Science (1CP2/01)
This paper is about core understanding + clear explanations:
data representation
hardware + software basics
networks + cybersecurity
logic, truth tables, and simple algorithms
ethical, legal, environmental and cultural impacts
Paper 2: Application of Computational Thinking (1CP2/02) — on-screen
This paper rewards structured problem solving:
algorithm design and refinement
trace tables + testing
writing or completing code under pressure
debugging and improving solutions
managing time on multi-step tasks
Tip: Treat Paper 2 like a skills exam:
practise under timed conditions
build a repeatable method: understand → plan → implement → test → refine
don’t leave testing to the last 5 minutes
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
Is Paper 2 definitely on-screen?
Yes — Edexcel schedules Paper 2 as an on-screen exam in Summer 2026.
Are both papers in the afternoon?
Yes — both 1CP2 papers are scheduled in the PM session for Summer 2026.
What’s the quickest way to improve Paper 2?
Do fewer questions, but do them properly:
timed attempt → mark → error log → reattempt a similar question within 48 hours.
Need help before May?
If you want a calm, structured plan (and someone to fix the exact mistakes costing marks), book support early — especially for the on-screen Paper 2.
Press “Book a lesson” at the top of the page.



