Amended specifications for AS and A Level Physics A

This update was first published on 5 November 2024. For the June 2025 series exams, we can confirm centres will receive hard copies of the amended Data, Formulae and Relationships Booklet as part of their non-confidential general stationery despatch.

Following feedback from teachers, we have amended the specifications and Data, Formulae and Relationships Booklet for AS and A Level Physics A (H156/H556).

A Level Physics A (H556) specification

To improve clarity and consistency of the A Level Physics A specification, we’ve made minor amendments to the following sections: 

• 1d, 2c, 3, 3d, 3e, 4a, 5c and 5f 

You can view what’s been amended in the Summary of updates on page 87 of the A Level specification. The updated specification (version 2.7) is available to view and download from the A Level Physics A qualification page on our website and on Teach Cambridge.

AS Level Physics A (H156) specification 

To improve clarity and consistency of the AS Level Physics A specification, we’ve made minor amendments to the following sections: 

• 1d, 2c, 3, 3d, 3e, 4a and 5f 

You can view what’s been amended in the Summary of updates on page 49 of the AS Level specification. The updated specification (version 1.4) is available to view and download from the AS Level Physics A qualification page on our website and on Teach Cambridge.

Please note: We have not changed the principles of the learning outcomes for students or any of the assessment requirements in the AS and A Level Physics A specifications. 

Guide to specification updates

To support teachers further, we have provided separate guidance on these specification amendments. You can view and download the AS Level and A Level ‘Guide to specification updates’ from the Subject home > Resources area on Teach Cambridge.

Data, Formulae and Relationships Booklet (H156/H556)

To reflect the amendments in the specifications for AS and A Level Physics A, we’ve also updated the Data, Formulae and Relationships Booklet. 

You can view and download the updated booklet (2025) from: 

• The Assessment > Sample assessment materials sections on the A Level and AS Level Physics A qualifications pages on our website. 
• The Assessment > Sample assessment materials section on Teach Cambridge.

Please make sure you are using the correct versions of the specifications and booklet with your students. The amendments are immediate and apply for first assessment in June 2025.

We would like to thank teachers for providing us with feedback. We hope the changes we’ve made to our specifications help to support the teaching of our AS and A Level Physics A qualifications.

If you have any queries about this update, please call our Customer Support Centre on 01223 553998 or email science@ocr.org.uk.

Qualification

• Physics A - H156, H556 (from 2015)