AQA GCSE Physics past papers and mark schemes

By the STEM-Tutor team · Updated October 2026

AQA publishes its GCSE Physics (8463) past papers free, with mark schemes and examiner reports. There are two papers of 1 hour 45 minutes, each worth 100 marks, at Foundation or Higher tier. Paper 1 covers energy, electricity, particles and atomic structure; Paper 2 covers forces, waves, magnetism and space.

AQA GCSE Physics papers by series

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Source: official AQA GCSE Physics past papers. All papers are © their publisher.

AQA GCSE Physics paper structure

For the 2025, 2026 and 2027 exams, every student gets a physics equation sheet in the exam, so you do not have to memorise the equations. What earns the marks is choosing the right equation, rearranging it and using the correct units.

Tips for AQA GCSE Physics papers

• AQA asks about the required practicals in both papers. For each one, know the method, the variables and one way to improve accuracy.
• Six-mark extended answers are marked on a levels basis: write a logical sequence of points, not a list of facts.
• Always write the equation, substitute with units, then give the answer with its unit.
• Read the examiner report for every question you lost marks on: AQA quotes the common mistakes.

Frequently asked questions

Which topics are on AQA GCSE Physics Paper 1?

Energy, electricity, the particle model of matter and atomic structure. Paper 2 covers forces, waves, magnetism and electromagnetism, and space physics.

How long are the AQA GCSE Physics papers?

Each paper is 1 hour 45 minutes and worth 100 marks.

Do I get an equation sheet?

For the 2025, 2026 and 2027 exams, every student gets a physics equation sheet in the exam, so you do not have to memorise the equations. What earns the marks is choosing the right equation, rearranging it and using the correct units.