Cambridge International A Level
Computer Science (Subject Code: 9618)
Introduction
Computer Science is the study of the foundational principles and practices of computation and computational thinking, alongside their application in the design and development of computer systems. This syllabus explicitly encourages the development of computational thinking—teaching students how to analyze, abstract, and decompose complex operational hurdles.
Learners gain a deep structural understanding of computer technology, providing them with the high-demand technical skills required for direct industry employment or advanced progression into higher education degree programs.
Core Programming Languages
Practical software architecture concepts are explicitly delivered and taught using Java or Python.
Global Recognition
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Accepted globally by universities as equivalent to UK A Levels.
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High tier grades can yield up to one full year of advanced standing/university credits in the US & Canada.
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Essential credential for admission to leading international English-speaking technical faculties.
Prerequisites & Entry Requirements
Applicants must satisfy at least one of the following baseline conditions:
- Grade B or above in IGCSE Information Communication Technology.
- Grade C or above in IGCSE Computer Science.
- An equivalent recognized professional IT or computing qualification.
- Pass both the standard written and practical entry diagnostic tests.
Grading & Examination Logistics
- Grading Matrix: Calculated dynamically from A* (highest metric) down to E (minimum passing standard).
- Exam Cycles: Exam sessions are held globally in June and November, with results released in August and January respectively.
- Exam Environment: Testing is administered directly within the FUTUREKIDS Computer Learning Center
Scheme of Assessment
Candidates can sit for Papers 1 and 2 to achieve a standalone AS Level qualification, or complete all four papers to obtain the full A Level. All examination components are externally assessed by Cambridge examiners.
| Paper | Focus Details | Duration | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paper 1: Theory Fundamentals | This paper is a compulsory written examination assessing sections 1 through 8 of the syllabus content. | 1 hr 30 mins | 25% |
| Paper 2: Fundamental Problem-solving & Programming | This paper is a compulsory written examination assessing sections 9 through 12 of the syllabus content. Candidates must answer programming questions using pseudocode. | 2 hrs | 25% |
| Paper | Focus Details | Duration | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paper 3: Advanced Theory | This paper is a compulsory written examination assessing sections 13 through 20 of the syllabus content. | 1 hr 30 mins | 25% |
| Paper 4: Practical Assessment | This paper is a compulsory, offline computer-based examination assessing sections 19 and 20, excluding low-level and declarative programming. Candidates must complete all tasks using console-mode Java, Visual Basic, or Python, submitting their program code and evidence of testing. | 2 hrs 30 mins | 25% |
Available Examination Pathways
Candidates can choose from three flexible assessment routes to complete their Cambridge International AS & A Level qualifications:
AS Level Standalone
Candidates sit only the AS Level components (Papers 1 and 2) in a single examination series. This concludes as a standalone, independent qualification.
Staged Assessment
Candidates take the AS Level papers in an initial series, carry the marks forward, and complete the A2 Level papers (Papers 3 and 4) in a subsequent session (within a 13-month window) to achieve the full A Level.
Linear Assessment
Candidates sit all four components—both AS Level (Papers 1 & 2) and A2 Level (Papers 3 & 4)—together in the exact same examination series for a comprehensive full A Level award.
Curriculum Content Structure
The structural foundation is composed of twenty interrelated syllabus parts meant to be absorbed as an integrated computational mindset rather than broken milestones.
Advanced Subsidiary Content (AS)
Theoretical Base:
- Information representation
- Communication
- Hardware
- Processor fundamentals
- System software
- Security, privacy and data integrity
- Ethics and ownership
- Databases
Programming:
- Algorithm design and problem-solving
- Data types and structures
- Programming
- Software development
Advanced Level Content (A2)
Advanced Theory:
- Data representation
- Communication and Internet technologies
- Hardware and virtual machines
- System software
- Security
- Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Advanced Programming:
- Computational thinking and advanced problem-solving
- Further programming
Course Module Roadmap
| Module Pathway | Syllabus Sections Covered | Total Training Commitment |
|---|---|---|
| AS Level Core Certificate Sequence | ||
| Module 1: Programming Basics | Sections 9, 10, 11 | 24 Study Hours 12 Lessons |
| Module 2: Algorithm Design & Problem-Solving | Sections 11, 12 | 24 Study Hours 12 Lessons |
| Module 3: Computer Systems & Organisation | Sections 1, 3, 4, 5 | 20 Study Hours 10 Lessons |
| Module 4: Databases & Communication Technologies | Sections 2, 6, 7, 8 | 28 Study Hours 14 Lessons |
| A2 Level Extension (Full A-Level Integration) | ||
| Module 5: Advanced Problem Solving Methods | Sections 13, 18, 19 | 32 Study Hours 16 Lessons |
| Module 6: Programming Paradigms | Sections 19, 20 | 20 Study Hours 10 Lessons |
| Module 7: Communication Technologies & Security | Sections 13, 14, 17 | 20 Study Hours 10 Lessons |
| Module 8: System Software & Artificial Intelligence | Sections 15, 16, 18 | 24 Study Hours 12 Lessons |
Regular Class Schedule
The courses are scheduled every Thursday or Friday afternoon, or with multiple flexible choices across Saturday:
Exam Eligibility & Registration
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1. AS Level Examination
Students who successfully complete Modules 1–4 will be eligible to sit the AS Level examination in the upcoming session (offered in May/June or October/November). -
2. A Level Examination
Students who successfully complete Modules 5–8 will be eligible to sit the A Level (or A2 Level) examination in the upcoming session (offered in May/June or October/November). -
3. Exam Preparation
Enhancement courses and mock examinations will be held prior to the official exam series. These sessions are designed to reinforce students' module knowledge and familiarise them with exam patterns. Detailed schedules will be announced later. -
4. Registration
Registration: Enrollment details and registration schedules will be announced in due course.
Summer Holiday Schedule Detail
Intensive summer crash tracks are now open for online reservation. Click below to view specific scheduling options:
Have questions about enrolment or prerequisites?
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