Pearson Edexcel International GCSE Physics Overview

May 21, 2025

Pearson Edexcel International GCSE in Physics (4PH1)

Overview

  • First teaching: September 2017
  • First examination: June 2019
  • Issue 4: September 2024
  • Not accredited or regulated by UK bodies.

Key Features

  • Linear qualification with two written exams at the end of the course.
  • Content equivalent to Pearson’s regulated GCSE in Physics.
  • Assessment through untiered, written exams accessible to students of all abilities.
  • Prepares students for further study in physics and related fields.

Specification Updates

  • Issue 4 changes include availability of series amended to November and June and modular International GCSEs added to forbidden combinations.
  • For detailed changes, check page numbers 8, 9, 33, and 48.

Why Choose Pearson Edexcel?

  • World’s largest education company with a strong heritage.
  • Known for rigorous, demanding, inclusive, and empowering qualifications.
  • Offers globally recognized qualifications with innovation support.

Why Choose Pearson Edexcel International GCSE in Physics?

  • Engaging content developed from feedback across diverse educational communities.
  • Designed for progression to advanced levels and related fields.
  • Course features practical investigations and problem-solving skills.

Supporting Resources

  • Planning: Getting Started Guide, course planner, and editable scheme of work.
  • Teaching and Learning: Accessible digital and print materials.
  • Exams Preparation: Specimen papers, ResultsPlus, examWizard.
  • Training Events: Online and in-person teacher training.

Qualification Structure

  • Physics Paper 1: 2 hours, 110 marks, 61.1% of total, assesses core content.
  • Physics Paper 2: 1 hour 15 minutes, 70 marks, 38.9% of total, assesses all content including deeper sub-topics.

Core Physics Topics

  1. Forces and Motion
  2. Electricity
  3. Waves
  4. Energy Resources and Transfers
  5. Solids, Liquids, and Gases
  6. Magnetism and Electromagnetism
  7. Radioactivity and Particles
  8. Astrophysics

Assessment Information

  • Total marks: 180; Grades range from 9 to 1.
  • Exams consist of multiple-choice, short-answer, calculations, and extended open-response questions.
  • Experimental skills are integrated into exams and developed through practical investigations.

Administration and General Information

  • Cannot be taken alongside certain combinations of science qualifications.
  • Access arrangements ensure fair assessment for students with disabilities.
  • Assessment available in English only.

Appendices

  • Codes: Subject and paper codes provided.
  • World Class Qualification Design: Ensures global relevance and best practices in qualification design.
  • Transferable Skills: Highlighted for student development.
  • Mathematical Skills: Developed throughout the qualification.
  • Command Word Taxonomy: Definitions provided for assessment.
  • Practical Investigations: Suggested topics for student exploration.
  • Physics Formulae: Key relationships and equations.
  • Electrical Circuit Symbols: Reference for students.

Contact and Further Information