What Is the Pass Mark for A Level Physics?
What Is the Pass Mark for A Level Physics?
Created:Updated: 14-August-2025
Wondering what percentage you need to pass A Level Physics?
Many students—and parents—want to know what mark will secure that all-important “E” grade or higher.
How Are A Level Physics Grades Set?
A Level Physics (AQA 7408) is graded from A* to E. To pass, you need at least an E.
The exact percentage required changes each year because grade boundaries are set after exams are marked, to reflect paper difficulty and national performance.
Typical Pass Marks for A Level Physics
As a general guide, the E-grade boundary (a pass) is often around 40%–45% of the total marks, but it can be a little higher or lower depending on the series.
Boundaries vary by paper and by year—always check the latest figures from AQA: See current AQA grade boundaries.
What Are Grade Boundaries?
Grade boundaries show the minimum raw mark needed for each grade in a given series. For example, if the E boundary is set at 42% overall, scoring 42% or higher would earn a pass that year.
Boundaries are set separately for each exam series and can change slightly from one year to the next.
How Many Marks Is AQA A Level Physics Worth?
- Three written papers (each 2 hours): Paper 1 (85 marks), Paper 2 (85 marks), Paper 3 (80 marks).
- Total: 250 raw marks across all papers.
- The practical endorsement is separate (Pass/Not Classified) and doesn’t change your exam grade.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do universities care about my percentage or my grade?
Universities look at your final grade, not the raw percentage you achieved.
Are boundaries the same for every exam board?
No—each board sets its own boundaries each series, after marking.
Can grade boundaries change year to year?
Yes—boundaries are adjusted annually to maintain standards across different papers and cohorts.