Introduction - GCSE Computers
GCSE Computer Science AQA Specification Overview
The AQA GCSE Computer Science (8525) specification is designed to introduce students to the real-world practical skills of computational thinking and coding. It covers key topics from algorithms and programming to data representation, computer networks, cyber security, and databases.
Our comprehensive revision hub breaks down the entire syllabus into bite-sized learning sections, interactive spec tables, and target objectives to give you a clear path to achieving your best grades.
Specification at a glance
This qualification is linear. Linear means that students will sit all their exams at the end of the course.
Subject content reference topics
- 3.1 Fundamentals of algorithms
- 3.2 Programming
- 3.3 Fundamentals of data representation
- 3.4 Computer systems
- 3.5 Fundamentals of computer networks
- 3.6 Cyber security
- 3.7 Relational databases and structured query language (SQL)
- 3.8 Ethical, legal and environmental impacts of digital technology on wider society, including issues of privacy
Paper 1: Computational thinking and programming skills
| What's assessed | How it's assessed | Questions |
|---|---|---|
| Computational thinking, code tracing, problem-solving, programming concepts including the design of effective algorithms and the designing, writing, testing and refining of code. The content for this assessment will be drawn from subject content 3.1 and 3.2 above. | • Written exam: 2 hours • 90 marks • 50% of GCSE | A mix of multiple choice, short answer and longer answer questions assessing programming, practical problem-solving and computational thinking skills. |
Paper 2: Computing concepts
| What's assessed | How it's assessed | Questions |
|---|---|---|
| The content for this assessment will be drawn from subject content 3.3 to 3.8 above. | • Written exam: 1 hour 45 minutes • 90 marks • 50% of GCSE | A mix of multiple choice, short answer, longer answer and extended response questions assessing SQL programming skills and theoretical knowledge. |
Previous learning and prerequisites
There are no previous learning requirements. Any requirements for entry to a course based on this specification are at the discretion of schools and colleges.
Overlaps with other qualifications
There are no overlaps with any other AQA qualifications at this level.