Computer Science · XCP01 / YCP01

How International A level Computer Science works

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

Two qualifications in one course

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

The International AS (cash-in code XCP01) is Unit 1, Unit 2. It is a qualification on its own.
The full International A level (cash-in code YCP01) is all 4 units: the AS units plus Unit 3, Unit 4.

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	WCP01	Principles of Computer Science	AS	June only
Unit 2	WCP02	Practical Programming and Problem-solving	AS	June only
Unit 3	WCP03	Advanced Principles of Computer Science	A2	not offered in 2026/27
Unit 4	WCP04	Advanced Practical Programming and Problem-solving	A2	not offered in 2026/27

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 Computer Science. What can you claim?

The AS units are Unit 1, Unit 2.
Together they give the International AS (XCP01).

Answer: The International AS in Computer Science (XCP01); add the A2 units in Year 13 for the full A level (YCP01).

Key idea: International AS Computer Science = Unit 1, Unit 2 (XCP01). Full International A level = all 4 units (YCP01). Not every unit is offered in October.

Check yourself

What is the cash-in code for the full International A level in Computer Science?
- XCP01
- YCP01
- ZCP01
- WCP01
Show answer
YCP01. YCP01 is the full International A level; XCP01 is the International AS.
Which code is the International AS in Computer Science?
- YCP01
- WCP01
- QCP01
- XCP01
Show answer
XCP01. XCP01 is the International AS cash-in code.
How many units make up the full International A level in Computer Science?
Show answer
4. The full A level is 4 units: Unit 1, Unit 2, Unit 3, Unit 4.
In 2026/27, in which exam series can you sit Computer Science Unit 1 (Principles of Computer Science)?
- October, January and June
- January and June only
- June only
- January only
Show answer
June only. Pearson's 2026/27 manual lists Unit 1 as available in: June only.
Which Computer Science unit has the code WCP02?
- Unit 2
- Unit 1
- Unit 3
- Unit 4
Show answer
Unit 2. WCP02 is Unit 2: Practical Programming and Problem-solving.

Practise with instant feedback

Sources

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