Edexcel International A Level (IAL) Further Maths specification (YFM01)
Understanding the exam specification is key to doing well in your Edexcel International A Level (IAL) Further 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.
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In the next section, you'll find a simplified summary of the official Edexcel International A Level (IAL) Further 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 Edexcel International A Level (IAL) Further Maths (YFM01) 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 Edexcel specification PDF.
Specification overview
Edexcel International A Level Further Mathematics extends learners’ understanding beyond A Level Mathematics, developing deeper knowledge and more advanced skills in algebra, calculus, geometry, and discrete mathematics. It supports logical reasoning, modelling, problem-solving, and proof-based thinking. The course is designed for students aiming to pursue mathematically rich university programmes or careers. Its modular structure provides flexibility and breadth, allowing tailored combinations of pure and applied mathematics units.
Subject content breakdown
Core Pure Mathematics 1 (CP1)
- Complex numbers: arithmetic, Argand diagrams, modulus-argument form
- Series: summation notation, recurrence relations, mathematical induction
- Roots of polynomials: relations between roots and coefficients, transformations
- Matrices: operations, inverse, determinants, solving systems
- Proof: algebraic methods, counter-examples
- Vectors: scalar product, 3D problems
Core Pure Mathematics 2 (CP2)
- Further complex numbers: de Moivre’s theorem, loci, exponential form
- Further calculus: integration techniques, volume of revolution
- Polar coordinates: sketching, arc length, area
- Hyperbolic functions and identities
- Differential equations: first and second order, modelling
- Further matrix applications
Further Pure Mathematics 1 (FP1)
- Complex numbers: powers, roots, loci, transformations
- Series: methods of differences, sigma notation
- Proof by induction and contradiction
- Matrices and determinants
- Coordinate systems: Cartesian and polar equations
- Further vectors and vector products
Further Pure Mathematics 2 (FP2)
- Further algebra and functions: rational functions, inequalities
- First order differential equations and integrating factors
- Maclaurin and Taylor series
- Numerical methods: iteration and approximation
- Further matrix algebra: eigenvalues, eigenvectors
- Second order differential equations and applications
Further Mechanics 1 (FM1)
- Momentum and impulse: conservation, Newton’s law of restitution
- Work, energy and power
- Circular motion: angular speed, centripetal force
- Centres of mass: laminae, composite shapes
- Variable acceleration: vectors, calculus methods
Further Statistics 1 (FS1)
- Discrete distributions: Poisson, binomial
- Continuous distributions: exponential, normal approximations
- Hypothesis testing: single and two-sample tests
- Chi-squared tests: goodness of fit and contingency tables
- Central limit theorem and estimation
Decision Mathematics 1 (D1)
- Algorithms and graphs: shortest path, route inspection
- Critical path analysis and scheduling
- Linear programming and simplex method
- Matchings, flows in networks, and assignment problems
Assessment structure
Assessment structure: four units required for the full International A Level qualification
- Each unit: 1 hour 30 minutes, 75 marks, externally assessed
- Students must take at least two Core Pure Mathematics units (CP1 and CP2 mandatory)
Remaining two units can be chosen from:
- Further Pure Mathematics 1 (FP1)
- Further Pure Mathematics 2 (FP2)
- Further Mechanics 1 (FM1)
- Further Statistics 1 (FS1)
- Decision Mathematics 1 (D1)
- Each paper contains a mix of structured and extended-response questions
- All questions compulsory
Formulae booklet provided
- Grading: A*–E for International A Level
- Modular structure enables resit of individual units for improvement
Key tips for success
Doing well in your Edexcel International A Level (IAL) Further 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.
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