GCSE-readyPast papers and mark schemes
Past papers are the best practice there is. Pearson publishes them free, with mark schemes and examiner reports. Here is where to find them for each subject, and how to use them well.
Where to find them
Use Pearson's own past paper search: choose GCSE or International GCSE, then the subject and the exam series. Pearson says past papers and mark schemes are free for teachers and students, but papers from the last 12 months are only available to teachers, so ask your teacher for the newest ones.
Source: Pearson, "Past papers" support page, checked 17 October 2026. GCSE-ready is independent and not affiliated with or endorsed by Pearson.
Specification pages by subject
Each specification page also has sample assessment materials and the specification itself, which lists exactly what can be examined.
How to use a past paper
- Revise first. Do the lessons for the topics on the paper. Use a mock test in the app to find your gaps.
- Sit it properly. Time yourself, no notes, phone away. The exam dates page lists how long each paper is.
- Mark it with the mark scheme. Be strict: give a mark only when your answer matches a point on the scheme.
- Get feedback on long answers. Paste them into Correct my answer with the question and the marks.
- Fix the gaps. Write down every question you lost marks on, open the lesson for that topic, then try a similar question a few days later.
Questions and answers
Where can I find Pearson Edexcel past papers?
Use the past papers search on the Pearson qualifications website. Choose the qualification, subject and exam series to find papers. Source
Are past papers free?
Yes. Pearson says its past papers are available free to teachers and students. Source
Can I get mark schemes and examiner reports too?
Yes. The same search returns question papers, mark schemes and examiner reports, and you can download a whole exam series as a zip file. Source
Why can't I open the most recent papers?
Papers marked with a padlock are only for teachers and exams officers. Pearson keeps the most recent papers locked so schools can use them for mock exams. Source
How should I use past papers?
Practise papers in the set time limit to improve your exam technique, then mark them with the mark scheme to find what to work on. Source