AQA vs Edexcel: What’s the Real Difference?
Although both AQA and Edexcel award the same GCSE grades, their assessments aren’t identical. Here’s how they compare across major subjects:
Science
- AQA: Topics are broken down into clear, separate units (Biology, Chemistry, Physics). Practical experiments are straightforward, and exam questions tend to be structured with clear steps.
- Edexcel: Questions often test application and interpretation, with a greater focus on analysing data and linking different areas of science. Students may face multi-step problems that require deeper reasoning.
English Language
- AQA: Paper 1 focuses on a single fiction text, building towards detailed analysis and creative writing. Paper 2 switches to non-fiction, requiring comparison of texts and persuasive writing.
- Edexcel: Right from the start, students tackle two reading sources, developing comparison skills earlier. Writing tasks lean towards formal, transactional styles such as letters, speeches, or articles.
English Literature
- AQA: All exams are closed-book, so memorising key quotations and themes is essential. Questions typically focus on characters, themes, and writers’ use of language.
- Edexcel: Offers more flexibility with text choices. Some options (like iGCSE) allow open-book exams, which reduces pressure on memorisation.
Maths
- AQA: Clear exam structure that rewards step-by-step working. Great for students who prefer methodical approaches.
- Edexcel: Known for trickier, real-world style problems that test problem-solving skills. This can be more challenging but also rewarding for students who enjoy applying maths creatively.
Does the Exam Board Really Matter?
Yes—and no.
- Yes: Because exam boards have distinct styles, using the right revision resources is vital. Practising with AQA past papers when your exam is Edexcel (or vice versa) can cause confusion.
- No: Because all boards are equally respected. Employers and universities don’t care whether your GCSEs were AQA or Edexcel—only the grade achieved matters.
👉 The bottom line: Focus on the exam board you’ve been assigned and use tailored resources.
How to Check Which Exam Board You’re With
Not sure whether your school uses AQA or Edexcel? Here’s how to find out:
- Ask your subject teacher directly
- Look at the front of past papers or mock exams (the board is printed there)
- Check your school’s GCSE options booklet or curriculum guide
- Log into your school’s online learning platform, where specifications are often uploaded
Final Thoughts: AQA vs Edexcel at a Glance
Students don’t usually get to choose their exam board—but understanding the differences helps massively with revision planning.
- AQA: Structured, step-by-step, with clear exam layouts
- Edexcel: More analytical, with greater emphasis on applying knowledge in new situations
Whichever exam board you’re studying, the best way to prepare is to:
- Revise directly from your board’s specification
- Practise official past papers
- Get familiar with the style of questions you’ll face
That way, you’ll walk into the exam hall confident and prepared—whether it’s AQA or Edexcel on the front page.
