Edexcel International A Level (IAL) Maths specification (YMA01)
Understanding the exam specification is key to doing well in your Edexcel International A Level (IAL) 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) 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) Maths (YMA01) 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
Pearson Edexcel International A Level Mathematics is designed to develop students' mathematical knowledge and skills through a flexible, modular structure. The course aims to promote confidence, enjoyment, and the ability to reason logically and solve unstructured problems. Students are encouraged to appreciate the connections between mathematical concepts and real-world applications, enhancing their problem-solving and modelling skills. The specification supports progression to higher education and careers in mathematics, engineering, physics, and other quantitative disciplines by fostering independent learning, mathematical communication, and a deep understanding of mathematical coherence and technology use.Subject content breakdown
Pure Mathematics Units
- P1: Pure Mathematics 1
- Algebra, functions, coordinate geometry, trigonometry, differentiation, integration
- P2: Pure Mathematics 2
- Proof, algebra, functions, coordinate geometry, sequences, series, exponentials, logarithms, trigonometry, differentiation, integration
- P3: Pure Mathematics 3
- Algebra, functions, trigonometry, exponentials, logarithms, differentiation (including chain, product, quotient rules), integration, numerical methods
- P4: Pure Mathematics 4
- Proof (including contradiction), algebra, functions, coordinate geometry, binomial expansion, differentiation (implicit, parametric), integration (substitution, parts, differential equations), vectors
Further Pure Mathematics Units
- FP1: Further Pure Mathematics 1
- Complex numbers, roots of equations, numerical methods, coordinate systems (parabola, hyperbola), matrix algebra, transformations, series, mathematical induction
- FP2: Further Pure Mathematics 2
- Inequalities, series (including method of differences), complex numbers (De Moivre’s theorem), first and second order differential equations, Maclaurin/Taylor series, polar coordinates
- FP3: Further Pure Mathematics 3
- Hyperbolic functions, coordinate systems (ellipse, hyperbola), differentiation, integration (including reduction formulae, arc length), vectors (triple scalar product, planes), further matrix algebra, eigenvalues/eigenvectors
Mechanics Units
- M1: Mechanics 1
- Mathematical modelling, vectors, kinematics, Newton’s laws, momentum, friction, statics, moments
- M2: Mechanics 2
- Kinematics in a plane, centres of mass, work and energy, collisions (including Newton’s law of restitution), statics of rigid bodies
- M3: Mechanics 3
- Further kinematics, elastic strings/springs, dynamics (variable forces), SHM, circular motion, statics of rigid bodies (centre of mass by integration)
Statistics Units
- S1: Statistics 1
- Data representation, measures of location/dispersion, probability, correlation, regression, discrete random variables, distributions, the Normal distribution
- S2: Statistics 2
- Binomial and Poisson distributions, continuous random variables/distributions, sampling, hypothesis testing
- S3: Statistics 3
- Random variables combinations, estimation, confidence intervals, hypothesis testing, goodness of fit, contingency tables, regression
Decision Mathematics Unit
- D1: Decision Mathematics 1
- Algorithms, graphs, critical path analysis, linear programming
Assessment structure
Unit Structure
- All units assessed by a 1 hour 30-minute written examination (75 marks)
- External assessment only
- Units available in January, June, and October (some optional units only in January and June)
International Advanced Subsidiary (IAS)
- Mathematics IAS: P1, P2 plus M1, S1, or D1
- Further Mathematics IAS: FP1 plus two from FP2, FP3, M1, M2, M3, S1, S2, S3, D1
- Pure Mathematics IAS: P1, P2, FP1
International Advanced Level (IAL)
- Mathematics IAL: P1, P2, P3, P4 plus two from M1, M2, S1, S2, D1
- Further Mathematics IAL: FP1 plus FP2 or FP3 plus two from FP2, FP3, M1, M2, M3, S1, S2, S3, D1
- Pure Mathematics IAL: P1, P2, P3, P4, FP1 plus FP2 or FP3
Assessment Approach
- Modular, allowing staged or linear assessment
- Calculators permitted in all examinations
- Results may be combined towards qualifications with unused unit results required for certification
- Exams test knowledge, understanding, problem-solving, and modelling skills
Key tips for success
Doing well in your Edexcel International A Level (IAL) 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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