Introducing OCR's NEW A Level in Psychology for expected first teach September 2026*
After a comprehensive review of our A Level, during which we listened to feedback from teachers and worked with experts from different organisations, we’re planning some improvements.
We'll be updating our AS Level specification too.
We're working with Ofqual to have our new specifications accredited ready for a first teach in September 2026*.
In the meantime, you can:
- explore our most recent draft specifications and sample assessment materials
- sign up for our email updates to stay informed about the developments
- speak to one of our team about our plans for the new qualification.
Why choose our A Level Psychology?
✅ Up-to-date, relevant content, including the use of AI and racial bias in mental health. Studies are also evaluated in a contemporary way, and we’ll use recent examples of research, articles and topics in our exam papers
✅ Unique topics on environmental psychology and sport and exercise psychology
✅ An updated and extended mental health topic, and inclusion of criminal psychology as a compulsory option to reflect their significance✅ A reduced number of core and key studies, which are named in the specification, to ensure clarity and give you more time to support your students
✅ A more accessible assessment approach, with just one statistical test, a consistent paper structure and reduced marks in the exam to help with time management
✅ A comprehensive support package so you can feel confident in teaching our qualification – from professional development courses to a dedicated subject advisor and teaching and learning resources.
Want to learn more?
Request more information and a member of our team will be in touch to answer any questions you might have.
You can also read a more detailed explanation of the changes we're making in our blog.
*Please note, our AS/A Level Psychology qualifications have not yet been accredited by Ofqual. While our draft specifications and sample assessment materials have been published to enable teachers to have early sight, changes may be required as part of the accreditation process and the proposed first teach date may change. We can give no assurances these proposed qualifications will be accredited for September 2026 or remain as they currently are.
Subscribe to our email updates
Remember to register for our email updates and we'll keep you informed about the latest psychology developments, including teaching materials, resources, blogs, news, events and more.
Signing up is easy: fill in our short registration form, tick the Psychology area of interest box and we'll deliver news straight to your inbox.
