Physics Past Papers
GCSE Physics past papers cover energy, electricity, particle model of matter, atomic structure, forces, waves, and magnetism. Foundation and Higher tier papers include calculations, practical investigations, and theory questions. Students study topics including Newton's laws, electromagnetic spectrum, radioactivity, and space physics. Papers test mathematical skills and scientific methodology.
Physics Revision Guide — 2026 Exams
Preparing for your Physics GCSE in 2026? Below you’ll find exam tips from experienced teachers, a topic checklist, grade boundary guidance, and common mistakes to avoid. Use this alongside our past papers for the best results.
Top Exam Tips for Physics
1. Memorise the equations — both lists
You'll be given a formula sheet with some equations, but others you must know from memory. Learn which are which, and practise rearranging them.
2. Always write the equation first in calculations
Step 1: Write the equation. Step 2: Substitute values. Step 3: Calculate. Step 4: Write the answer with units. This earns maximum method marks even if you make an arithmetic error.
3. Units matter enormously in Physics
Convert everything to SI units before calculating: km to m, minutes to seconds, kJ to J. Wrong units = wrong answer, even with correct method.
4. Practise interpreting graphs
Physics papers are full of graphs. Know how to calculate gradients (for rate/speed), areas under curves (for distance/energy), and identify patterns.
5. Required practicals are easy marks
Learn the specific equipment used, the method, how to reduce errors, and how to present results. These questions often carry 6 marks.
Physics Grade Boundaries — What to Expect
Physics grade boundaries sit between Biology and Chemistry in difficulty. A grade 4 typically needs 30-40% on Higher tier, a grade 7 around 55-65%, and a grade 9 requires 75-85%. The paper is calculation-heavy, so strong maths skills directly translate to higher Physics grades. At least 30% of marks are for maths-based questions.
Note: Exact grade boundaries are set after marking each year and published on results day. The figures above are general guidance based on recent series. See our GCSE grades explained guide for more on how the 9-1 system works.
Physics Topic Checklist
Use this checklist to make sure you’ve covered every topic before your 2026 exams. Click each section to expand:
Common Mistakes to Avoid
These are the errors examiners see most often. Avoid them and you’ll be ahead of the pack:
✘Using the wrong equation from the formula sheet
✔Read the question carefully and identify exactly which quantities you're given and which you need to find. Then pick the equation that links them
✘Forgetting to convert units
✔Before substituting into an equation, check: are distances in metres? Time in seconds? Mass in kg? Energy in joules?
✘Confusing speed and velocity
✔Speed is scalar (magnitude only). Velocity is a vector (magnitude AND direction). The distinction matters in motion questions
✘Drawing incorrect ray diagrams
✔Use a ruler for all straight lines. Mark the normal as a dotted line at 90° to the surface. Measure angles from the normal, not the surface
✘Weak explanations of energy transfers
✔Name the specific energy stores: 'chemical energy store → kinetic energy store → thermal energy store', not just 'energy is transferred'
Examiner Insights
“The equation recall questions (where you must write an equation from memory) are frequently answered poorly — practise writing them under timed conditions.”
“Circuit diagram questions require you to know the symbols. Examiners note that many students confuse the voltmeter and ammeter symbols.”
“When asked to evaluate an experiment, don't just say 'human error'. Name the specific source of error and explain how it affected results.”
Ready to put this into practice?
The best way to prepare for your 2026 Physics GCSE is to work through past papers under timed conditions. We’ve got hundreds of free papers with mark schemes from all major exam boards.
All Physics Past Papers (22 papers)
Showing 1-22 of 22 papers
| Year | Exam Board | Paper | Tier | Links |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | AQA | Physics - Paper 1 | Foundation | |
| 2024 | AQA | Physics - Paper 1 | Higher | |
| 2024 | AQA | Physics - Paper 2 | Foundation | |
| 2024 | AQA | Physics - Paper 2 | Higher | |
| 2024 | Edexcel | Physics - Paper 1 | Higher | |
| 2024 | Edexcel | Physics - Paper 1 | Foundation | |
| 2024 | Edexcel | Physics - Paper 2 | Foundation | |
| 2024 | Edexcel | Physics - Paper 2 | Higher | |
| 2023 | AQA | Physics - Paper 2 | Higher | |
| 2023 | AQA | Physics - Paper 2 | Foundation | |
| 2023 | Edexcel | Physics - Paper 1 | Higher | |
| 2023 | Edexcel | Physics - Paper 1 | Foundation | |
| 2023 | Edexcel | Physics - Paper 2 | Higher | |
| 2023 | Edexcel | Physics - Paper 2 | Foundation | |
| 2022 | AQA | Physics - Paper 1 | Higher | |
| 2022 | AQA | Physics - Paper 1 | Foundation | |
| 2022 | AQA | Physics - Paper 2 | Higher | |
| 2022 | AQA | Physics - Paper 2 | Foundation | |
| 2022 | Edexcel | Physics - Paper 1 | Higher | |
| 2022 | Edexcel | Physics - Paper 1 | Foundation | |
| 2022 | Edexcel | Physics - Paper 2 | Higher | |
| 2022 | Edexcel | Physics - Paper 2 | Foundation |