OCR AS Level Past Papers
Browse 34 OCR AS Level subjects. Download question papers, mark schemes, and examiner reports — free, no sign-up required.
All OCR AS Level Resources
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About OCR AS Level
AS Level (Advanced Subsidiary) is a standalone qualification typically taken in Year 12 (age 16–17). It covers roughly the first half of the full A-Level content. Since 2017 reforms, AS results are decoupled from A-Level — they do not count toward the final A-Level grade. Most AS-Level subjects consist of 2 written papers sat at the end of Year 12.
When are AS Levels taken?
AS exams are usually taken in May and June at the end of Year 12. Some schools enter students for AS Levels as a 'trial run' before the full A-Level in Year 13. Results are released in August alongside A-Level results.
How are AS Levels assessed?
Most AS Level subjects are assessed by 2 written papers. The content covers the Year 12 portion of the A-Level specification. Some subjects include a coursework element or practical component.
Do AS Levels carry UCAS points?
Yes. AS Levels are worth up to 20 UCAS points (grade A = 20). While most universities focus on A-Level predictions, AS grades can strengthen a UCAS application or demonstrate breadth of study in a 4th subject.
AS Level Grading Scale
AS Levels are graded A–E (with U for Ungraded). There is no A* grade at AS Level. Grade boundaries are set independently of A-Level boundaries each year.
How to Use OCR AS Level Past Papers Effectively
Past papers are the single most effective revision tool. Here is a step-by-step approach to get the most out of every OCR AS Level paper you practise.
Start with the mark scheme
Before attempting a paper, read through the mark scheme for a similar paper. This shows you exactly what examiners look for — the phrasing, the level of detail, and the structure of a top-band answer.
Simulate real exam conditions
Set a timer, put away your notes, and complete the full paper in one sitting. This builds exam stamina, reduces anxiety, and reveals gaps you would miss when working through questions casually.
Self-mark ruthlessly
After finishing, mark your own work using the official OCR mark scheme. Be honest — do not give yourself marks for “close enough” answers. Note every mark you dropped and why.
Read the examiner report
OCR publishes examiner reports that reveal common mistakes and what top-scoring students did differently. These insights are often more valuable than doing another paper.
AS Level Exam Tips
Focus on the AS-specific content
AS papers only cover Year 12 content — they do not include synoptic A2 material. Make sure you know exactly which topics are examined at AS Level for your board.
Shorter papers, tighter timing
AS papers are typically shorter than A-Level papers (1–1.5 hours per paper). Practise completing full papers within the time limit, as there is less margin for overrunning.
Use AS papers for A-Level revision too
If you are taking the full A-Level, AS past papers are perfect for revising Year 12 content. They are simpler than A-Level papers and help build confidence before tackling the harder A2 questions.
What OCR AS Level Resources Are Available?
We provide a comprehensive collection of official OCR AS Level resources to help you prepare for your exams.
Question Papers
Official exam papers from recent and past series
Mark Schemes
Detailed marking criteria showing how marks are awarded
Examiner Reports
Insights from examiners on common mistakes and best practice
Sample Papers
Practice papers released when new specifications launch
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about OCR AS Level exams and past papers.
Is AS Level the same as the first year of A-Level?
AS Level covers the same content as Year 12 of A-Level, but since 2017 it is a standalone qualification with its own grade. AS results do not feed into or affect your A-Level grade — they are completely separate.
Do universities accept AS Levels?
Most universities focus on A-Level results for offers, but AS grades can support your application. Some competitive courses view strong AS results positively, and taking a 4th AS Level shows breadth. However, many schools no longer enter students for AS exams.
Can I convert an AS Level into a full A-Level?
No — since the 2017 reforms, AS and A-Level are assessed independently. To gain an A-Level, you must sit all A-Level papers at the end of Year 13 (covering both Year 12 and Year 13 content). Your AS grade does not contribute.
Are AS Level past papers useful for A-Level revision?
Yes. AS papers test the Year 12 content that also appears in A-Level exams. They are ideal for targeted revision of foundation topics, especially early in Year 13 when consolidating Year 12 knowledge.
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