There are two STEP papers; each takes three hours and is based on different A Level knowledge:
STEP 2 is based on A Level Mathematics and AS Level Further Mathematics.
The paper has 12 questions across three sections:
- Section A: 8 pure questions
- Section B: 2 mechanics questions
- Section C: 2 probability/statistics questions
STEP 3 is based on A Level Mathematics and A Level Further Mathematics.
The paper has 12 questions across three sections:
- Section A: 8 pure questions
- Section B: 2 mechanics questions
- Section C: 2 probability/statistics questions
STEP scoring
The mark 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.
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 (15 August 2024), you will be able to view your results using our Results Online system.
To access your results, you will need to register with the Results Online system. You will need:
- Your candidate number
- Your PIN
- A valid email address
Your candidate number and your PIN will be given to you on the day of your test and can be found at the bottom of the 'Confidential Results Information' sheet.
Note: we cannot reissue candidate PINs. If you have lost your PIN, you will need to ask the exams officer at your STEP centre to download a statement of results for you.
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.