Arabic · XAA01 / YAA01

How International A level Arabic works

Start here: the units, their exam codes and when you can sit them for Pearson Edexcel International AS and A level Arabic.

Two qualifications in one course

International A level Arabic is modular: you sit it unit by unit.

The International AS (cash-in code XAA01) is Unit 1. It is a qualification on its own.
The full International A level (cash-in code YAA01) is all 2 units: the AS units plus Unit 2.

You can bank AS results in Year 12 and add the A2 units in Year 13.

The units

Each unit has its own exam code. These are the codes your exams officer uses to enter you.

Unit	Code	Title	Level	Exam series 2026/27
Unit 1	WAA01	Understanding and Written Response	AS	January and June only
Unit 2	WAA02	Research, Writing and Research	A2	January and June only

Source: Pearson Information Manual 2026/2027, International A level

When you can sit them

Pearson runs International A level exams in January, May to June and October, but not every unit is offered in every series. Plan your units with your teacher, and always confirm entries with your exams officer: Pearson updates the manual every year.

Worked example

You finish Year 12 having sat the AS units in Arabic. What can you claim?

The AS units are Unit 1.
Together they give the International AS (XAA01).

Answer: The International AS in Arabic (XAA01); add the A2 units in Year 13 for the full A level (YAA01).

Key idea: International AS Arabic = Unit 1 (XAA01). Full International A level = all 2 units (YAA01). Not every unit is offered in October.

Check yourself

What is the cash-in code for the full International A level in Arabic?
- XAA01
- YAA01
- ZAA01
- WAA01
Show answer
YAA01. YAA01 is the full International A level; XAA01 is the International AS.
Which code is the International AS in Arabic?
- YAA01
- WAA01
- QAA01
- XAA01
Show answer
XAA01. XAA01 is the International AS cash-in code.
How many units make up the full International A level in Arabic?
Show answer
2. The full A level is 2 units: Unit 1, Unit 2.
In 2026/27, in which exam series can you sit Arabic Unit 1 (Understanding and Written Response)?
- October, January and June
- June only
- January and June only
- January only
Show answer
January and June only. Pearson's 2026/27 manual lists Unit 1 as available in: January and June only.
Which Arabic unit has the code WAA02?
- Unit 2
- Unit 1
Show answer
Unit 2. WAA02 is Unit 2: Research, Writing and Research.

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Sources

Last updated 7 November 2026. Spotted a mistake? Email alevel@lifereadysociety.com.