GCSE & A-Level Exam Dates 2026
Approximate exam dates for the summer 2026 exam series. Dates shown are indicative and cover AQA, Edexcel (Pearson) and OCR. Always check your exam board's official timetable for confirmed dates.
Need revision resources? Visit reviseguide.co.uk for free study guides and past papers.
GCSE Exams \u2014 Summer 2026
| Subject | Exam Board(s) | Papers | Approximate Dates |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language | AQA / Edexcel / OCR | Paper 1 & 2 | 18 May – 8 Jun 2026 |
| English Literature | AQA / Edexcel / OCR | Paper 1 & 2 | 20 May – 5 Jun 2026 |
| Mathematics | AQA / Edexcel / OCR | Paper 1, 2 & 3 | 19 May – 12 Jun 2026 |
| Combined Science | AQA / Edexcel / OCR | 6 papers | 11 May – 19 Jun 2026 |
| Biology | AQA / Edexcel / OCR | Paper 1 & 2 | 11 May – 15 Jun 2026 |
| Chemistry | AQA / Edexcel / OCR | Paper 1 & 2 | 13 May – 17 Jun 2026 |
| Physics | AQA / Edexcel / OCR | Paper 1 & 2 | 14 May – 18 Jun 2026 |
| History | AQA / Edexcel / OCR | 2–3 papers | 12 May – 10 Jun 2026 |
| Geography | AQA / Edexcel / OCR | 2–3 papers | 15 May – 12 Jun 2026 |
| Modern Languages | AQA / Edexcel / OCR | 4 skills | 26 May – 19 Jun 2026 |
A-Level Exams \u2014 Summer 2026
| Subject | Exam Board(s) | Papers | Approximate Dates |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics | AQA / Edexcel / OCR | Pure 1 & 2, Applied | 1 Jun – 19 Jun 2026 |
| Further Mathematics | AQA / Edexcel / OCR | 4 papers | 3 Jun – 22 Jun 2026 |
| English Literature | AQA / Edexcel / OCR | 2–3 papers | 26 May – 15 Jun 2026 |
| Biology | AQA / Edexcel / OCR | Paper 1, 2 & 3 | 1 Jun – 22 Jun 2026 |
| Chemistry | AQA / Edexcel / OCR | Paper 1, 2 & 3 | 2 Jun – 23 Jun 2026 |
| Physics | AQA / Edexcel / OCR | Paper 1, 2 & 3 | 3 Jun – 24 Jun 2026 |
| Psychology | AQA / Edexcel / OCR | Paper 1, 2 & 3 | 26 May – 17 Jun 2026 |
| History | AQA / Edexcel / OCR | 2–3 papers | 27 May – 15 Jun 2026 |
| Geography | AQA / Edexcel / OCR | 2–3 papers | 28 May – 16 Jun 2026 |
| Economics | AQA / Edexcel / OCR | Paper 1, 2 & 3 | 26 May – 18 Jun 2026 |
Exam Preparation Tips
The exam period typically runs from mid-May to the end of June. GCSE exams start slightly earlier than A-Levels, and most students will sit exams across the full six-week window. Here are evidence-based tips to help you prepare effectively.
Start Early, Space It Out
Research consistently shows that spaced repetition beats last-minute cramming. Begin active revision at least eight weeks before your first exam. Break each subject into topics and cycle through them over multiple sessions rather than studying one subject for days at a time.
Practice Past Papers
Past papers are the single most effective revision tool. They familiarise you with the question style, teach you how to allocate time, and expose gaps in your knowledge. Aim to complete at least three full past papers per subject under timed conditions before the real exam.
What to Bring on Exam Day
- Black ink pens (at least two)
- Pencil, ruler, rubber and sharpener
- Scientific calculator (check it is an approved model)
- Clear pencil case or transparent bag
- Water in a clear, unlabelled bottle
- Your exam timetable and candidate number
- Photo ID if required by your centre
Do not bring your mobile phone into the exam hall. Even a switched-off phone found on your person can result in disqualification. Leave it in your bag outside the hall or at home.