Chemistry

Applications Open: 5th December 2025

Applications Close: 31st January 2026

Entry Requirements: 5 GCSE grades of 4 or above of which must include English & Maths. Then individual subject criteria

Science and Maths - require level 7 in subject to study (plus 6 in maths for science subjects)

Most other courses require level 6 to study

Chemistry is the study of materials, what they are made of, how they interact and what role they play in living things. From the moment you are born and throughout your whole life you are surrounded by chemistry; in the air you breathe, the food you eat and the clothes you wear. From space research to the depths of the oceans, chemists are involved in collecting valuable information that helps us to have a better understanding of the world we live in. Chemists are working to solve the problems we face every day.

If you have an interest in and enjoyment of Chemistry, are up for a real challenge, and enjoy serious problem solving involving a subject at the fore front of modern technological advances, then A Level Chemistry could be the choice for you.

OCR Chemistry specifications (both AS and A Level) are structured around six modules, covering core chemistry concepts and practical skills. These modules include Foundations in Chemistry, Periodic Table and Energy, Core Organic Chemistry, Physical Chemistry and Transition Elements, and Organic Chemistry and Analysis. Practical skills are integrated throughout the course and assessed in written exams.

The linear A level in Chemistry involves three examinations at the end of Year 13. Two papers are 2 hours and 15 minutes long and one paper is 1 hour and 30 minutes long. These cover overarching themes of:

• Periodic table, elements and physical Chemistry
• Synthesis and analytical techniques
• Unified Chemistry

There is no coursework in the linear A level. However, practical competency is assessed through a number of core practical’s which are then used to report overall proficiency of practical skills at the end of the course. The theory behind the practical techniques will be assessed in the written examination papers. It is possible to take an AS Level examination in Chemistry at the end of Year 12.

Students will need to have achieved a grade 7 in Separate Chemistry at GCSE OR grade 7:7 in Combined Science (with grade 7 in the Chemistry papers). Additionally, a grade 6 in Mathematics GCSE will be expected. It is vital that the mathematics grade is achieved due to the extensive calculations and analysis that is required.

Chemistry is a preferred subject for the degree level study of more courses than any other subject. Chemistry is essential or highly recommended for the following careers: Medicine & Dentistry