GCSE Physics 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, the equations sheet, the resit dates and where to practise.
What the GCSE Physics exam involves
Under the AQA specification (8463), GCSE Physics 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 4, energy, electricity, the particle model of matter, and atomic structure
- Paper 2: topics 5 to 8, forces, waves, magnetism and electromagnetism, and space physics
Questions often link topics. For example, you might use an energy equation in a question about electrical circuits, 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 grades 4 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 Physics is one of the subjects that receives an equations sheet in the 2027 exams. AQA provides the Physics Equations Sheet as an insert with the Paper 1 and Paper 2 question papers, so you do not need to memorise the equations for 2027. The sheet is the same as in 2026. Read Is there an equations sheet in GCSE Physics? for the details and the changes from 2028.
You still need to know where each equation fits and how to rearrange it, so practise using equations in context, with units.
Resit and key dates
- November 2026 resits: GCSE Physics is not in the November 2026 series, which covers English Language and Maths only.
- 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, as dates can change.
Free practice
Last updated 3 November 2026.