OCR GCSE Religious Studies specification (J625)
Understanding the exam specification is key to doing well in your OCR GCSE Religious Studies 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 OCR GCSE Religious Studies 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 OCR GCSE Religious Studies (J625) 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 OCR specification PDF.
Specification overview
OCR’s GCSE (9–1) in Religious Studies encourages learners to explore key religious, philosophical, and ethical issues through the study of two world religions and thematic investigations of belief in modern society. The course promotes critical thinking, empathy, and informed debate. It aims to prepare learners for adult life in a pluralistic society by reflecting on moral questions, engaging with contemporary issues, and understanding diverse beliefs—including non-religious worldviews such as atheism and humanism.
Learners will: • Gain knowledge of religious teachings, texts, and practices across two chosen religions • Explore key moral and philosophical issues relevant to modern society • Develop skills of analysis, evaluation, and argumentation • Consider religious and non-religious perspectives on contemporary themes • Understand the impact of religion on individuals, communities, and societies:contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}.
Subject content breakdown
Component Group 1: Beliefs and teachings & Practices (choose two)
- Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Buddhism, Hinduism
- Beliefs and teachings: nature of God, key doctrines, life after death, salvation, key figures
- Practices: worship, sacraments/rituals, festivals, prayer, pilgrimage, role in the community
Component Group 2: Religion, philosophy and ethics in the modern world (Taken from one of the two religions above)
- Relationships and families: roles in family, marriage, gender equality, sexuality, divorce
- The existence of God/gods/ultimate reality: arguments for/against, revelation, miracles, religious experience
- Religion, peace and conflict: pacifism, terrorism, war, forgiveness, reconciliation, justice
- Dialogue between religious and non-religious beliefs: secularism, law, education, science, pluralism, inter-faith issues:contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}.
Assessment structure
Component Group 1: The study of a first and second religion
- Two separate 1-hour written papers
- Each paper worth 63 marks (including 3 for SPaG)
- Each contributes 25% of total GCSE
Component Group 2: Religion, philosophy and ethics in the modern world
- One 2-hour written paper
- Worth 126 marks (including 6 for SPaG)
- Contributes 50% of total GCSE
Assessment Format
- All assessment is written examination
- Question types include short answers, source-based responses, and extended written arguments
- Learners assessed equally on:
- AO1: Knowledge and understanding (50%)
- AO2: Analysis and evaluation (50%)
Grading
- Awarded 9–1
- No coursework or internal assessment
- Available only in English and assessed in summer series:contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}.
Key tips for success
Doing well in your OCR GCSE Religious Studies 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