AQA GCSE Maths specification (8300)
Understanding the exam specification is key to doing well in your AQA GCSE Maths 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.
Examiner-written revision resources that improve your grades 2x
- Written by expert teachers and examiners
- Aligned to exam specifications
- Everything you need to know, and nothing you don’t
In the next section, you'll find a simplified summary of the official AQA GCSE Maths 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 Maths (8300) 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
GCSE Mathematics aims to equip students with the skills to confidently apply mathematics to real-life situations, develop fluency in methods, and reason mathematically. The course fosters problem-solving abilities and logical thinking across a variety of contexts. It supports progression to further mathematical study and helps students appreciate the importance of maths in both academic and vocational settings. The qualification encourages understanding, competence, and confidence with mathematical techniques essential for daily life and future pathways.
Subject content breakdown
3.1 Number
- Operations with integers, decimals, fractions, surds, indices, and standard form
- Estimation, rounding, error intervals, bounds
- Structure of numbers: factors, multiples, primes, HCF, LCM
3.2 Algebra
- Manipulation of expressions, equations, formulae, and identities
- Sequences: linear, quadratic, geometric
- Graphs of linear, quadratic, reciprocal, exponential and trigonometric functions
- Solving equations and inequalities (including graphically and using iteration)
- Rearranging and constructing formulae
3.3 Ratio, proportion and rates of change
- Simplifying and using ratios
- Working with percentages and proportionality
- Direct and inverse proportion (algebraic and graphical)
- Compound measures: speed, density, pressure
- Growth and decay problems, interpreting gradients and rates of change
3.4 Geometry and measures
- Properties of shapes, angles, and constructions
- Congruence, similarity, transformations
- Mensuration: perimeter, area, surface area and volume (2D and 3D shapes)
- Circle geometry, Pythagoras’ theorem, trigonometric ratios
- Vectors and geometric proof
3.5 Probability
- Experimental and theoretical probability
- Venn and tree diagrams, sample spaces
- Independent and conditional probability
3.6 Statistics
- Collecting and representing data (charts, graphs, tables)
- Averages and measures of spread (including interquartile range)
- Interpreting diagrams and statistical comparisons
- Scatter graphs and correlation
Assessment structure
Paper 1 – Non-calculator
- 1 hour 30 minutes, 80 marks
- Covers the full specification
- No calculator allowed
- 33⅓% of GCSE Maths
Paper 2 – Calculator
- 1 hour 30 minutes, 80 marks
- Covers the full specification
- Calculator allowed
- 33⅓% of GCSE Maths
Paper 3 – Calculator
- 1 hour 30 minutes, 80 marks
- Covers the full specification
- Calculator allowed
33⅓% of GCSE Maths
- All three papers assess across all topic areas
- Foundation tier: grades 1–5; Higher tier: grades 4–9
- Each paper includes a mix of question types from short answers to multi-step problems
Key tips for success
Doing well in your AQA GCSE Maths 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.
Share this article