Cambridge AS Level (Grade 11)

Programme Overview

  • Cambridge AS Level is typically taken in Grade 11, and A Level in Grade 12. Together, they form a complete pre-university qualification.
  • AS Level is the first half of the full A Level qualification.
  • Duration: 1 academic year.
  • Students typically take 4–5 subjects.
  • Assessment held in May/June or Oct/Nov.
  • Can be a standalone qualification or carried forward to complete full A Level.

Medical Stream Subjects (Recommended):

SubjectCode
Biology9700
Chemistry9701
Physics9702
English General Paper / Language8021 / 9093
Optional: Mathematics9709
Optional: Psychology9990

Non-Medical Stream Subjects (Recommended):

SubjectCode
Mathematics9709
Physics9702
Chemistry9701
English General Paper / Language8021 / 9093
Optional: Computer Science9618
Optional: Economics9708

AS-Level Assessment Format:

  • Written papers only (in most subjects)
  • No coursework (except Global Perspectives or Art)
  • Some science subjects may offer practical papers or an alternative to practical

AS-Level Sample Syllabus Coverage:

BiologyChemistryPhysicsMathematics
Cell structureAtomic structureKinematicsPure Math (algebra, functions, graphs)
Biological moleculesStoichiometryDynamicsProbability and Statistics OR Mechanics
EnzymesBondingForces and energy
Transport in plants & animalsPeriodicityElectricity
ImmunityRedox reactionsWaves

Exam Pattern (Assessment Structure)

AS Level assessment is linear, meaning:
  • All exams for a subject are taken at the end of the course (Grade 11).
  • Exams may consist of 2 or more papers depending on the subject.
  • No internal school-based marks—everything is assessed externally by Cambridge.

Common Components:

Type of PaperSubjectsAssessment Style
Theory PapersAll subjectsWritten questions (short answer, structured, essays)
Practical ExamsBiology, Chemistry, PhysicsLab-based or "Alternative to Practical" written paper
Coursework / ProjectsArt, Global PerspectivesProject submission assessed by external moderators
Oral/Listening PapersLanguages (e.g., French, Hindi)Speaking and listening tests
Data/Case AnalysisEconomics, Business, Environmental MgtGraphs, tables, case studies
Coding TasksComputer ScienceAlgorithm writing, logic, and theoretical questions

Grading System (AS Level)

Cambridge AS Level uses the following grade scale:

GradeMeaning
AExcellent
BVery Good
CGood
DSatisfactory
EMinimum Pass
UUngraded / Fail
Notes:
  • A is the highest grade at AS Level.
  • A* is not awarded at AS Level (only at full A-Level).
  • If students continue to A2 (Grade 12), the combined result (AS + A2) can yield an A* in the full A Level.

What is Considered a Pass?

  • Grades A to E are considered passing grades.
  • U (Ungraded) means the performance didn’t meet the minimum requirements.

Exam Sessions

  • May/June and October/November every year.
  • Results are typically released around August (for May/June) and January (for Oct/Nov).

Example: AS Level Physics (9702)

PaperNameWeightType
Paper 1Multiple Choice~15%Objective
Paper 2AS Structured Questions~23%Short/long answer
Paper 3Advanced Practical Skills~11%Lab/Practical

The exact structure and number of papers varies per subject.

Tips for Students in AS & A-Level:

  • Begin with 4 subjects in AS, and carry forward 3 or 4 for A Level.
  • Choose subjects aligned with career goals (e.g., medicine, engineering, research).
  • Ensure you are aware of university-specific eligibility requirements for subject combinations.
  • Refer to updated syllabuses each academic year (as topics or paper patterns may change).
  • Use past papers and examiner reports to build exam familiarity and confidence.

Ready to Excel in School & Beyond?

Join CGP Edu’s expert-led program and start your journey toward academic success today!