GCSE Language Exams

At GCSE, you will sit 4 exam papers.  Reading, Listening, Speaking and Writing. 

The speaking exam takes place either just before or just after the Easter holidays. You can find more specific guidance on the speaking exam below. 

The reading and listening exams take place in May/June and will require you to complete comprehension questions. 

The writing exam requires some translation into the language from English, and texts of 40, 90 and 150 words. 

Exam Tiers

Once you complete a mock paper, bring it for marking and we can see what grade you are achieving. If in doubt, start with foundation tier. 

Foundation Tier = Grades 1-5

Higher Tier - Grades 4-9

Exam Timetables 2026

AQA Edexcel

A Level Language Exams

At A Level, you will sit 3 exam papers. These can vary slightly between languages. Past papers are available here.

Paper 1 = Reading and listening comprehension (research project for some)

Paper 2 = Literature / Film essay writing paper

Paper 3 = Translation and further comprehension OR speaking exam

The speaking exam takes place either just before or just after the Easter holidays. You can find more specific guidance on the speaking exam below. 

The remaining papers take place in the May/June summer exam series.

Exam Timetables 2026

AQA Edexcel