Edexcel International AS Business specification (XBS11)
Understanding the exam specification is key to doing well in your Edexcel International AS Business 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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- Written by expert teachers and examiners
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In the next section, you'll find a simplified summary of the official Edexcel International AS Business 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 AS Business (XBS11) 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
The Cambridge International AS Level in Business introduces learners to the core principles of business activity and the internal and external environments in which businesses operate. It fosters an understanding of enterprise, business structures, financial planning and the impact of decision-making. The course encourages the development of analytical, evaluative and numerical skills through real-world business scenarios. It prepares students for higher study and careers in business, management, marketing, finance and related fields by promoting enterprise awareness and critical thinking.
Subject content breakdown
1. Business and its environment
- Nature and purpose of business activity
- Types of business organisation and objectives
- Stakeholders and their influence
- External influences: economic, legal, social and technological
2. People in organisations
- Human resource management and workforce planning
- Organisational structure and communication
- Motivation theories and methods
- Recruitment, selection and training
3. Marketing
- The role and importance of marketing
- Market research and segmentation
- The marketing mix: product, price, place, promotion
- Developing effective marketing strategies
4. Operations and project management
- Production methods and efficiency
- Quality management and inventory control
- Location decisions and project planning tools
5. Finance and accounting
- Sources of finance
- Costs, revenue and profit
- Break-even analysis
- Cash flow forecasting and budgets
- Income statements and statements of financial position
Assessment structure
Paper 1: Short Answer and Essay
- Written exam: 1 hour 15 minutes
- 60 marks
- Four questions including structured short answers and one essay
- Based on AS subject content
- 40% of AS Level
Paper 2: Data Response
- Written exam: 1 hour 30 minutes
- 80 marks
- Two compulsory data response questions
- Includes numerical, analytical and evaluative tasks
60% of AS Level
- Candidates must take both papers in the same series
- Exams available June and November
- Grading: A–E
Key tips for success
Doing well in your Edexcel International AS Business 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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