OCR GCSE Biology (Separate Science)
OCR GCSE Biology develops understanding of cells, inheritance, health and disease, coordination, exchange and ecosystems. Students use practical investigation, scientific models and evidence to explain the natural world.
Choose your OCR GCSE Biology course and tier
Choose Gateway A or Twenty First Century B and the Foundation or Higher tier confirmed by your school. Each option below identifies both the suite and tier.
Gateway A — Foundation
OCR GCSE Biology A (Gateway Science) — Foundation (J247)
J247
Explore the Foundation-tier Biology requirements for OCR A (Gateway Science), J247. Follow the course and tier confirmed by your school.
Gateway A — Higher
OCR GCSE Biology A (Gateway Science) — Higher (J247)
J247
Explore the Higher-tier Biology requirements for OCR A (Gateway Science), J247. Follow the course and tier confirmed by your school.
Twenty First Century B — Foundation
OCR GCSE Biology B (Twenty First Century Science) — Foundation (J257)
J257
Explore the Foundation-tier Biology requirements for OCR B (Twenty First Century Science), J257. Follow the course and tier confirmed by your school.
Twenty First Century B — Higher
OCR GCSE Biology B (Twenty First Century Science) — Higher (J257)
J257
Explore the Higher-tier Biology requirements for OCR B (Twenty First Century Science), J257. Follow the course and tier confirmed by your school.
OCR offers Gateway Science (A) and Twenty First Century Science (B) courses. Check your school's specification as well as your tier.
Choosing the correct course
The two OCR suites organise their content differently. Use the specification for your course when checking topic coverage and assessment requirements.
Practical and scientific skills
Practical methods, data interpretation and mathematical reasoning support subject knowledge and are assessed in written examinations.
Official course information
Find the relevant Biology A or Biology B specification in OCR's GCSE qualification directory.