AQA GCSE Computer Science specification (8525)
Understanding the exam specification is key to doing well in your AQA GCSE Computer Science 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 GCSE Computer Science 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 GCSE Computer Science (8525) 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
This GCSE Computer Science specification from AQA equips students with a solid foundation in computing principles and practical programming skills. The course focuses on developing logical thinking, problem-solving and computational skills. Learners gain understanding of algorithms, data representation, cyber security, networks, and the ethical implications of digital technology. Practical experience in programming is integrated throughout the course, enabling students to write, test and refine code using languages such as Python, VB.NET or C#. The course prepares students for A-level study, vocational routes, or employment in computing fields:contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}.Subject content breakdown
3.1 Fundamentals of algorithms
- Understand and explain algorithms, decomposition, abstraction
- Represent algorithms using pseudocode, code, and flowcharts
- Explain and trace simple algorithms; determine purpose
- Compare efficiency of algorithms in terms of time
- Understand linear and binary search; bubble and merge sort
3.2 Programming
- Understand and use data types: integer, real, Boolean, character, string
- Programming constructs: sequence, selection, iteration, subroutines
- Arithmetic, relational, Boolean operations
- Data structures: arrays, records
- Input/output handling; string operations
- Random number generation; structured programming
- Validation, authentication, debugging and testing strategies
3.3 Fundamentals of data representation
- Understand binary, decimal, hexadecimal number systems
- Conversions between number bases; binary arithmetic
- Units of information and prefixes: kB, MB, GB, TB
- Character encoding: ASCII and Unicode
- Image and sound representation; file size calculations
- Data compression: Huffman coding and run-length encoding
3.4 Computer systems
- Hardware/software, Boolean logic, system architecture
- System and application software; OS and utility functions
- Programming languages: high-level vs low-level, translators
- Von Neumann architecture, memory types, secondary storage
- Cloud storage and embedded systems
3.5 Fundamentals of computer networks
- Types: PAN, LAN, WAN; wired and wireless networks
- Network topologies (star, bus), protocols (TCP/IP, HTTP, FTP, etc.)
- Network security: authentication, encryption, firewalls
- TCP/IP model: application, transport, internet, link layers
3.6 Cyber security
- Definitions and purposes; threats: malware, social engineering, etc.
- Penetration testing; detection and prevention methods
3.7 Relational databases and SQL
- Understand tables, fields, records, keys
- Use SQL to query, insert, update and delete data
3.8 Ethical, legal and environmental impacts
- Digital technology and privacy, cyber security, wearable tech
- Legal and ethical implications; sustainability and global impact:contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
Assessment structure
Paper 1: Computational thinking and programming skills
- Written exam: 2 hours
- 90 marks, 50% of GCSE
- Covers algorithms and programming (Content 3.1 & 3.2)
- Includes multiple choice, short and extended questions
- Practical programming experience required
Paper 2: Computing concepts
- Written exam: 1 hour 45 minutes
- 90 marks, 50% of GCSE
- Covers theoretical knowledge (Content 3.3–3.8)
Mix of question types including extended responses
- Both papers are equally weighted (90 marks each)
- Programming must be taught; schools submit authentication statement
- Assessment objectives: AO1 (30%), AO2 (40%), AO3 (30%)
- Total marks: 180:contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
Key tips for success
Doing well in your AQA GCSE Computer Science 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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