AQA vs Edexcel are the two largest exam boards in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. They both offer a wide range of GCSE subjects, and the content of their exams is broadly similar. With these, parents must understand how they differ. Schools’ offerings will differ, even subject to subject.
Because of this, schools and institutions can choose which exam board to use for each topic and must carefully consider each specification to determine which awarding body and certification to select.
The choice of exam board is an important one, and it is important to do your research to make sure that you choose the right one for you. Consider your learning style and preferences, and talk to your teachers and other students to get their advice.
There is no clear consensus on which exam board is harder, as the difficulty of the exams can vary depending on the subject and the individual student. Ultimately, the best way to decide is to try out both exam boards and see which one you prefer.
However, some general differences between the two exam boards may make one seem more challenging than the other. Find out more about AQA vs EDExcel.
Table of Contents
About AQA
More than half of the GCSE and A-level exams taken and graded in the UK each year are administered by AQA (Assessment and Qualifications Alliance) is the oldest, largest, and one of the major exam boards in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. It was founded in 1858.
It currently offers exams in over 70 subjects. AQA is known for its high standards and rigorous marking, which can make its exams seem more challenging than those of other boards.
However, AQA also offers many resources and support to help students succeed, including detailed mark schemes, practice papers, and revision guides.
AQA is run by a board of trustees in charge of the organization’s general strategy and direction. AQA is a registered charity, independent of the government.
The Associated Examining Board (AEB) and Northern Examinations and Assessment Board (NEAB) merged in April 2000 to become the organization, which has been functioning for about 20 years.
AQA offers certifications in about 60 topics, each with a range of standards and certification levels.
Along with many languages, humanities, ICT-related fields, physical education, and creative disciplines, the three fundamental subjects of arithmetic, English, and science are covered.
AQA also provides autonomous extended projects and Applied General and Level 1, 2, and 3 certificates in a range of skill-based topic areas, including business, science, catering, and general skills.
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About EDExcel
AQA is one of the biggest awarding bodies in the UK. EDExcel is a combination of the words “education” and “excellence” and serves as Pearson’s certification brand name.
The Business and Technology Education Council (BTEC) and the University of London Examinations and Assessment Council (ULEAC), which administered GCSEs and A levels, merged in 1996 to become EDExcel.
EDExcel is a relatively new exam board, having been founded in 1996. However, it has quickly become one of the most popular exam boards in the UK.
It is known for its innovative approach to education and offers a wide range of digital resources and support to help students learn. EDExcel’s exams are generally considered a little easier than AQA’s, but they can still be challenging.
EDExcel, the only privately held exam board in the UK, was initially founded as a charitable organization but is now controlled by Pearson. The organization is governed by a board that regulates standards and monitors the business’ overall operations.
It offers a range of programs and certifications for students between the ages of 14 and 19, although in the UK, it’s primarily utilized for GCSE and A-level exams (as well as some occupational certifications like NVQs and Functional Skills).
EDExcel offers credentials in roughly 50 subject areas, including the three essential courses of math, English, and science.
EDExcel is a well-liked option for BTEC and NVQ qualifications, although there are more than 300 options for topics or courses related to the various work-based and NVQ competency certifications.
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What are the differences between AQA and EDExcel?
AQA is known for its detailed and comprehensive exam specifications, often seen as more challenging than EDExcel’s.
AQA exams are also generally more structured, clearly focusing on knowledge and understanding. This can make them a good choice for students who prefer to learn linearly and systematically.
EDExcel is known for its more flexible and student-centered approach. Its exams often require students to apply their knowledge more creatively and problem-solve.
This can make them a good choice for students who prefer to learn by doing and who are confident in their ability to think independently.
The differences between AQA and EDExcel can also vary from subject to subject. For example, in English, AQA exams focus more on literary analysis, while EDExcel exams focus more on practical writing skills.
In mathematics, AQA exams are more theoretical, while EDExcel exams are more applied.
The grade boundaries for AQA and EDExcel exams can also vary. Generally, AQA grade boundaries tend to be higher than EDExcel grade boundaries. This means that it is slightly more difficult to achieve a high grade with AQA.
GCSE Exam Boards Grading for AQA
AQA uses a numerical grading system for GCSEs, with grades ranging from 1 to 9. A grade 9 is the highest, equivalent to an A* in the old grading system. A grade 1 is the lowest, equivalent to a G in the old grading system.
The grade boundaries for AQA GCSE exams are set after they have been taken and marked. Several factors determine the boundaries, including the overall performance of the students taking the exam.
GCSE Exam Boards Grading for EDExcel
EDExcel also uses a numerical grading system for GCSEs, with grades ranging from 1 to 9. However, the grade boundaries for EDExcel exams are set before the exams are taken.
This means that students know exactly what they need to achieve to get a particular grade.
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AQA Exam Approach
AQA exams are generally considered to be more challenging than EDExcel exams. This is because AQA exams tend to have more demanding questions that require students to think more deeply. AQA exams also tend to emphasize extended writing, which can be challenging for some students.
Regarding the structure of the exams, AQA exams typically consist of a mix of multiple-choice, short-answer, and extended writing questions.
The multiple choice questions are usually worth a few marks each, while the short answer and extended writing questions are worth more marks.
This means that students need to be able to answer all types of questions to achieve a good grade.
AQA exams also tend to be more demanding regarding the time students are allowed to complete them. This is because they typically have more questions than EDExcel exams.
This can be a challenge for students who struggle to manage their time effectively.
EDExcel Exam Approach
EDExcel exams are generally considered to be less challenging than AQA exams. This is because EDExcel exams tend to have less demanding questions that require students to think less deeply. EDExcel exams also tend to emphasize multiple-choice questions, which can be easier for some students.
Regarding the structure of the exams, EDExcel exams typically have a higher proportion of multiple-choice questions than AQA exams.
Students who are good at answering multiple-choice questions may find EDExcel exams easier. However, EDExcel exams also have a small number of extended writing questions, so students still need to be able to write well to achieve a good grade.
EDExcel exams also tend to be less demanding regarding the time they allow students to complete them. This is because EDExcel exams typically have fewer questions than AQA exams. This can be an advantage for students who struggle to manage their time effectively.
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Which is Harder: AQA vs EDExcel?
The answer to which exam board is harder is ultimately subjective. Some students may find AQA exams more challenging, while others may find EDExcel exams more challenging.
Ultimately, the difficulty of an exam will depend on several factors, including the student’s strengths and weaknesses, the amount of preparation they have done, and the quality of the teaching they have received.
The best way to decide which exam board is right for you is to consider your strengths and weaknesses as a learner.
However, some general trends can be observed. For example, AQA exams are generally considered more challenging in the sciences, while EDExcel exams are generally more challenging in the humanities.
Additionally, AQA exams are known for their detailed mark schemes, which can make them more difficult to prepare for.
If you are a student who is good at thinking critically and writing well, then you may find AQA exams more challenging but also more rewarding.
However, if you are a student who prefers multiple-choice questions and finds it difficult to manage your time, you may find EDExcel exams easier.
Ultimately, the best way to prepare for either exam board is to practice answering questions from past papers. This will help you to get used to the style of the questions and the time constraints.
Is AQA or EDExcel the same Content?
The content of the GCSE exams for AQA and EDExcel is broadly similar. However, there are some minor differences in how the content is presented.
For example, AQA exams may include more diagrams and graphs, while EDExcel exams may include more case studies.
In general, the differences in content between AQA and EDExcel are insignificant. However, if you are planning to take exams from both exam boards, it is important to be aware of the differences so that you can prepare accordingly.
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FAQs on AQA vs EDExcel
AQA is the more popular exam board, with around 60% of students taking their GCSEs with AQA. However, EDExcel is also a popular choice, with around 30% of students taking their GCSEs with EDExcel.
Universities accept both AQA and EDExcel. However, some universities may prefer one exam board over the other. It is always best to check with the universities you are interested in applying to see which exam board they prefer.
There is no clear answer to this question, as the difficulty of the exams can vary depending on the subject and the individual student.
The best way to choose which exam board to take is to consider your strengths and weaknesses as a learner. I
In Summary: AQA vs EDExcel
The choice of which exam board to take for GCSEs is personal. There is no right or wrong answer, and the best way to decide is to consider your strengths and weaknesses as a learner. If you are unsure which exam board is right for you, you should talk to your teacher or tutor for advice.
References
- explorelearning.co.uk ______ Maths GCSE exam boards explained
- piacademy.co.uk ______ GCSE Exam Boards Comparison | Edexcel vs AQA vs OCR
- tychr.com _____ WHICH EXAM BOARD IS THE HARDEST, AQA, EDEXCEL, CIE OR OCR?
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