AQA GCSE Physics (Separate Science) Notes
AQA GCSE Physics (8463) examines the principles behind physical phenomena, from everyday electrical circuits to the structure of matter and the Universe. Students develop explanations through models, calculations and experimental evidence.
Choose your AQA GCSE Physics tier
Choose Foundation or Higher. If you are unsure which tier you are studying, check with your teacher.
Foundation
AQA GCSE Physics Foundation (8463)
8463
Study the Foundation-tier requirements for AQA GCSE Physics (8463), without the additional material marked Higher Tier only.
Higher
AQA GCSE Physics Higher (8463)
8463
Study the Higher-tier requirements for AQA GCSE Physics (8463), including the shared content and additional Higher Tier material.
AQA GCSE Physics (Combined Science) Foundation (8463)
8463
Browse the Foundation-tier physics syllabus for this Combined Science option.
AQA GCSE Physics (Combined Science) Higher (8463)
8463
Browse the Higher-tier physics syllabus for this Combined Science option.
This is AQA's separate GCSE Physics qualification, specification code 8463. Follow the tier confirmed by your school.
What you will study
The course covers energy, electricity, the particle model of matter, atomic structure, forces, waves, magnetism and electromagnetism, and space physics.
How assessment works
Paper 1 covers energy, electricity, the particle model and atomic structure. Paper 2 covers forces, waves, magnetism and space physics. Each written paper lasts 1 hour 45 minutes, carries 100 marks and contributes 50% of the GCSE.
Practical and scientific skills
Practical methods, mathematical skills and data interpretation are assessed alongside subject knowledge in the written examinations.
Official course information
For the full requirements and assessment guidance, see the official specification.
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