AQA A Level Biology specification (7402)
Understanding the exam specification is key to doing well in your AQA A Level Biology exam. It lays out exactly what you need to learn, how you'll be assessed, and what skills the examiners seek. Whether you're working through the course for the first time or revising for your final exams, the specification helps you stay focused and confident in your preparation.
We've included helpful revision tools to support you in putting the specification into practice. Wherever you're starting from, you'll find everything you need to feel prepared, from the official specification to high-quality resources designed to help you succeed.
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In the next section, you'll find a simplified summary of the official AQA A Level Biology specification, along with a breakdown of key topics, assessment structure, and useful study resources. We've also included links to topic-level guides and revision tools to help you put the specification into practice.
Contents
Disclaimer
This page includes a summary of the official AQA A Level Biology (7402) specification, provided to support your revision. While we've made every effort to ensure accuracy, Save My Exams is not affiliated with the awarding body.
For the most complete and up-to-date information, we strongly recommend consulting the official AQA specification PDF.
Specification overview
The AQA A-level Biology qualification supports students in developing essential knowledge and understanding of biological concepts while nurturing a genuine interest in biology and its real-world relevance. The course is designed to be both academically rigorous and accessible, serving as a strong foundation for future study in fields like biological sciences, medicine, and related disciplines. Practical skills are central to the curriculum, promoting inquiry-based learning and critical thinking. The linear structure allows for integrated teaching of AS and A-level content, and the assessments are crafted to reward applied knowledge, understanding, and analytical skills without surprises.
Subject content breakdown
Core content (AS and A-level)
- Biological molecules
- Cells
- Organisms exchange substances with their environment
- Genetic information, variation and relationships between organisms
A-level only
- Energy transfers in and between organisms
- Organisms respond to changes in their internal and external environments
- Genetics, populations, evolution and ecosystems
- The control of gene expression
Assessment structure
AS Biology
Paper 1
- Topics 1–4
- 1 hour 30 minutes
- 75 marks
- Short answer and comprehension questions
- 50% of AS
Paper 2
- Topics 1–4
- 1 hour 30 minutes
- 75 marks
- Short answer and extended response questions
- 50% of AS
A-level Biology
Paper 1
- Topics 1–4
- 2 hours, 91 marks
- Short/long answer and extended response
- 35% of A-level
Paper 2
- Topics 5–8
- 2 hours, 91 marks
- Short/long answer and comprehension
- 35% of A-level
Paper 3
- Topics 1–8
- 2 hours, 78 marks
- Structured questions, data analysis, and one essay from a choice of two
- 30% of A-level
Key tips for success
Doing well in your AQA A Level Biology isn't just about how much you study, but how you study. Here are a few proven tips to help you stay on track
- Start with a clear plan: Break the subject into topics and create a revision schedule that allows enough time for each. Start early to avoid last-minute stress.
- Focus on understanding, not memorising: Use our revision notes to build a strong foundation in each topic, making sure you actually understand the material.
- Practise regularly: Attempt past papers to familiarise yourself with the exam format and timing. Mark your answers to see how close you are to full marks.
- Be strategic with your revision: Use exam questions by topic to focus on weaker areas, and flashcards to reinforce important facts and terminology.
- Learn from mistakes: Whether it's from mock exams or practice questions, spend time reviewing what went wrong and why. This helps prevent repeat mistakes in the real exam.
- Stay balanced: Don't forget to take regular breaks, eat well, and get enough sleep, a healthy routine makes revision much more effective.
With the right approach and consistent practice, you'll build confidence and improve your chances of exam success.
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