There are two STEP papers; each takes three hours and is based on different A Level knowledge:
STEP 2: A Level Maths and AS Level Further Maths
Is based on A Level Mathematics and AS Level Further Mathematics. The paper has 12 questions across three sections: the first contains eight pure questions, the second contains two mechanics questions, and the third contains two probability/statistics questions.
STEP 3: A Level Maths and A Level Further Maths
Is based on A Level Mathematics and A Level Further Mathematics. The paper has 12 questions across three sections: the first contains eight pure questions, the second contains two mechanics questions, and the third contains two probability/statistics questions.
The marking scheme for each question will be designed to reward candidates who make good progress towards a complete solution. Correct answers always receive full marks, whatever the method used.
Questions may test a candidate’s ability to apply mathematical knowledge in novel and unfamiliar ways and will often require knowledge of several different specification topics. Solutions will frequently require insight, ingenuity, persistence and the ability to work through substantial sequences of algebraic manipulation.
The papers are graded on a five-point scale.
STEP scoring
There are five possible grades:
- S – Outstanding
- 1 – Very Good
- 2 – Good
- 3 – Satisfactory
- U – Unclassified
All STEP questions are marked out of 20. The final grade for the paper is based on the student’s six best answers only.
All the questions that are attempted by a student will be marked. Candidates are rewarded for making good progress towards a solution, even if the final answer is incorrect. Correct answers always receive full marks, whatever the method used.
STEP results
On results day (August 2024), you will be able to view your results using our Results Online system.
Results will be passed to institutions through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) for use in their admissions processes. There is some variation in how different institutions make use of the results – candidates can contact the relevant institution(s) for more information on this.
For Cambridge University, copies of students' answer booklets are sent directly to the university admissions team. This enables the team to make judgments on students who miss their offer on the basis of their actual work, rather than on just their marks or grade.
Explanation of results