A Level 2026 Exam Trends: Pearson Edexcel International A Level Physics

Pearson Edexcel International A Level Physics is assessed with Unit 1 (mechanics, materials, waves), Unit 2 (electricity, waves, particles), Unit 3 (practical), and Unit 4/5 (further topics). Check the current spec for exact unit titles. Here are recent trends for 2026.

Paper format and structure

• Structure is unchanged for 2025–2026: written units (MCQ and/or structured) and Unit 3 (practical/coursework or practical-based questions). Calculations – formula, substitution, answer with unit; working credited; uncertainty and s.f. often tested.
• Formula sheet provided; correct use and unit conversion (e.g. keV to J) are expected. Practical – planning, analysis (graphs, uncertainty), evaluation (errors, improvements).
• Application to unfamiliar contexts (e.g. new scenario) is common; explanation in terms of physics principles is required.

Question types and topics that keep coming up

• Mechanics: Motion (suvat, graphs), forces, momentum, work and energy, circular motion. Vector nature and free-body diagrams; explanation in terms of physics.
• Waves: Superposition, interference, diffraction; electromagnetic spectrum. Phase and path difference; calculations with correct units.
• Electricity and magnetism: Circuits (Kirchhoff, potential divider), capacitors, electromagnetic induction. Working in calculations; explanation (e.g. Lenz’s law).
• Quantum and nuclear: Photoelectric effect, energy levels, radioactivity. Definitions and application to scenarios.
• Practical: Variables, control, graph (axis, gradient, uncertainty); conclusion; evaluation with specific points.

Are papers getting easier or harder?

• Standards are maintained via grade boundaries. Reports cite calculation errors (formula, unit), explanation without physics principles, practical planning and evaluation underperforming.
• No reported shift in difficulty; accuracy in calculations and clarity in explanation are key.

Similarity to past papers and predictability

• Format and style match past Edexcel International series. Past papers are a good guide to topic balance and practical style.
• Topics are predictable from the spec; contexts vary. Marking focus (working, units, uncertainty, evaluation) is consistent.

Examiner expectations and marking

• Calculations: Formula, substitution, answer with unit; working credited. Uncertainty and s.f. as specified. Explanations: Use physics principles and correct terms. Practical: method clear; evaluation with specific errors and improvements. Marking consistent with past series.

Assessment style and skills in demand

• Calculations – formulae and units; multi-step and synoptic. Explanation – in terms of physics; diagrams where helpful. Practical – planning, analysis, evaluation.

Focus areas for 2026 revision

1. Calculations – formula, substitution, unit; unit conversion; uncertainty.
2. Mechanics and circular motion – forces, energy, momentum; vector treatment.
3. Electricity and magnetism – circuits, capacitors, induction; explanation.
4. Practical – planning (variables, method, safety); graphs (gradient, uncertainty); evaluation (specific errors, improvements).
5. Past papers – written units and Unit 3 under timed conditions.

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Based on current specification and examiner reports. Always use the latest Pearson Edexcel International A Level Physics specification for your series.