Cambridge International AS & A Level Biblical Studies (9484)

We have consulted teachers and worked with subject experts to review the Cambridge International AS & A Level Divinity (8041/9011) syllabuses. As a result, we have redeveloped the syllabuses under the new name Biblical Studies, retaining the essence of the original subject content, while specifying and contextualising it more, and applying it to some philosophical and ethical questions.

What are the main changes to the syllabus?

• refocused some content and added new areas exploring ‘big questions’ of life and faith
• made several different topic areas compulsory, with four topic areas studied and assessed at Cambridge International A Level, and two topic areas at Cambridge International AS Level
• included a list of key concepts, command words and their meanings.

What are the main changes to the assessment?

• There are two compulsory examination papers for Cambridge International AS Level and four compulsory examination papers for Cambridge International A Level, with durations of 1 hour 30 minutes each.
• We do not assess spelling and grammar, but focus more on analysis and evaluation skills.
• A variety of different types of assessment questions are used at both Cambridge AS and A level.
• There is a small number of options within each question paper, as research suggests that a large number of optional questions does not benefit learners.

When do these changes take place?

The updated syllabus is for examination from November 2023 onwards. Please see the 2023 syllabus above for full details.