Choosing the right exam board for A Level Psychology can make your study experience smoother—especially if you’re learning independently and booking an exam centre yourself.

Here’s a clear, student-first comparison of AQA, Edexcel (Pearson), and OCR to help you decide what fits your needs. For transparency: Study From Home offers AQA A Level Psychology (7182) because we find it best aligned to independent learners (resources, past papers, exam-centre availability, and clear mark schemes). See our A Level Psychology course

Quick answer

• Best for most independent learners: AQA (7182) — broad support ecosystem (textbooks, YouTube, past papers), widely accepted at private exam centres, clear AO weightings and question styles.
• If you prefer topic options like clinical/criminological applications: Edexcel can appeal, but check private-centre availability locally.
• If you enjoy core studies and applied components: OCR’s approach-through-studies structure may suit you; again, confirm local exam-centre support.

What’s similar across all boards?

• No coursework: Assessment is at the end of the course via written exams.
• Core themes: Research methods, approaches, memory, social influence, psychopathology, and issues/debates appear in all boards (with different emphases).
• University recognition: UK universities accept A Levels from all three boards equally.

AQA (7182): why we use it

• Clarity & consistency: Well-signposted specs, transparent mark schemes, and predictable command words help independent learners.
• Resources everywhere: Abundant past papers, examiner reports, textbooks, videos, and teacher-made guides.
• Exam-centre access: Typically the most widely offered specification for private candidates (always check locally).
• Balanced content + options: Issues & debates, biopsychology, research methods throughout, with popular options (e.g., Relationships, Schizophrenia, Forensic).

Edexcel (Pearson): who it suits

• Applied flavour: Often features topics like clinical/criminological applications alongside foundations.
• Structure: Three terminal exams; topic-led organisation that some learners find motivating.
• Considerations for private candidates: Check your nearest centre—coverage varies by region.

OCR: who it suits

• Core-studies focus: Emphasis on classic and contemporary studies to build evaluation skills.
• Applied psychology component: Issues & debates plus real-world applications.
• Private entry: Availability differs—confirm with exam centres in your area.

Key decision factors (independent learners)

• Exam-centre availability: Phone/email local centres to confirm they accept your chosen board and subject.
• Past papers & support: More practice = better outcomes. AQA typically wins here for volume and accessibility.
• Question style fit: Look at a few recent papers. Which wording and structure feel most intuitive?
• Textbook ecosystem: Ensure you can access a complete, exam-board-specific text (and a revision guide) that matches the spec exactly.

So… which exam board is “easiest”?

None is objectively easier. Grade boundaries move each year to reflect difficulty. Your success depends more on fit with question style, the quality of resources, and how much targeted practice you do.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do universities prefer one board?

No—universities treat A Levels from AQA, Edexcel, and OCR equally. Focus on achieving the best grade you can.

Can I switch boards mid-course?

It’s possible but rarely advisable—content order and options differ, and past progress might not map 1:1. If you must switch, do it early.

Which board is best for private candidates?

AQA is often the most widely available, but it’s location-dependent. Always confirm with centres near you before enrolling.

Ready to study AQA A Level Psychology?