Ofqual
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Summary of decisions
Ofqual has decided to implement the proposals set out in the consultation document. The majority of respondents were in favour of students being given formulae sheets for GCSE mathematics (94% agreement) and equations sheets for physics and combined science (95% agreement). No issues were raised by those responding to the consultation that make it necessary to revise the proposals.
Ofqual will change its rules to require exam boards to provide students with support materials in the form of formulae and equations sheets for GCSE mathematics, physics and combined science exams in 2025, 2026 and 2027. The support materials will set out the formulae and equations that students must memorise in a normal year, as set out in DfEs subject content and as included on the sheets provided for 2022, 2023 and 2024. Ofquals updated conditions will require exam boards to:
- publish the formulae and equations sheets for the exams in 2025 in December 2024 so that students may become familiar with them before the exams
- publish the formulae and equations sheets for the exams in 2026 and 2027 by 1 September 2025 and 1 September 2026 respectively so that students may become familiar with them before the exams
- provide clean copies with their 2025, 2026 and 2027 exam papers
This means the formulae and equation sheets to be used in the 2025 exams will be the same as those used for exams in 2024. As such, before the exam boards republish the sheets in December 2024, students and teachers may access exam boards 2024 sheets for practice purposes, if they wish.
The decision relates to GCSE mathematics, physics and combined science exams being taken in summer 2025, 2026 and 2027. For GCSE mathematics this will also apply to exams taken in November 2025, 2026 and 2027. The longer-term expectations will be confirmed afterDfEs Curriculum and Assessment Review.