GCSE Chemistry is one of the three separate GCSE sciences, and it is also covered in GCSE Combined Science: Trilogy. This guide covers what the exam involves, how the tiers and grades work, whether there is an equations sheet, the resit dates and where to practise.
What the GCSE Chemistry exam involves
Under the AQA specification (8462), GCSE Chemistry is assessed in two papers, both taken at the end of the course. Each paper lasts 1 hour 45 minutes and is worth 100 marks, so the total is 200 marks. Each paper counts for half of the final grade. Most exam boards use a similar structure, but check the specification your school follows.
- Paper 1: topics 1 to 5, atomic structure and the periodic table, bonding and the properties of matter, quantitative chemistry, chemical changes, and energy changes
- Paper 2: topics 6 to 10, the rate and extent of chemical change, organic chemistry, chemical analysis, the chemistry of the atmosphere, and using resources
Questions often link topics. For example, a question about a reaction might ask you to calculate an amount and then explain how the rate of the reaction changes, so revise the topics in connection with each other as well as separately.
Tiers and grades
Students sit either the foundation tier, which can award grades 1 to 5, or the higher tier, which can award the top grades up to 9. Your school will advise which tier is right for you. Grade 4 is a standard pass and grade 5 is a strong pass.
Equations sheet
GCSE Chemistry does not get an equations sheet in the exam. AQA has published equations sheets for GCSE Maths, Physics and Combined Science for 2027, but not for Chemistry.
That means the calculations need to be learned. For example, you need to be able to work out an amount in moles from a mass and a relative formula mass, and to use the other quantitative chemistry covered in topic 3. Practise these with units and check that your answer makes sense for the question.
Read Is there an equations sheet in GCSE Chemistry? for more detail.
Resit and key dates
- Summer 2027: exams run in May and June 2027, with results in August 2027. Read the summer 2027 resit guide.
Check with your school or exam board for the exact timetable and whether any earlier series is available, as dates can change.
Free practice
Last updated 3 November 2026.