OCR GCSE Physics past papers and mark schemes

By the STEM-Tutor team · Updated October 2026

OCR publishes its Gateway Physics A (J249) past papers free, with mark schemes and examiner reports. OCR numbers the papers by tier: Foundation sits Papers 1 and 2, and Higher sits Papers 3 and 4. Each paper is 90 marks in 1 hour 45 minutes.

OCR GCSE Physics papers by series

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

OCR 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 OCR GCSE Physics papers

• Remember the numbering: if you sit Higher, your papers are 3 and 4.
• Each OCR paper starts with multiple-choice questions. Answer every one: there is no penalty for a wrong answer.
• Practise the maths skills OCR tests in context, such as rearranging, standard form and reading gradients from graphs.
• Use the examiner reports to see which practical skills questions students found hardest.

Frequently asked questions

Why does OCR Higher start at Paper 3?

OCR numbers all four papers in one sequence: 1 and 2 are Foundation, 3 and 4 are Higher.

Is this OCR Physics A or B?

This page is OCR Gateway Physics A (J249). Twenty First Century Physics B (J259) is a different qualification with its own papers.

How many marks is each paper?

90 marks, in 1 hour 45 minutes.