A/L Past Papers & Marking Schemes – 2020 to 2024 Collection

Introduction

The GCE Advanced Level (A/L) examination in Sri Lanka is the most important academic milestone for students who aspire to enter universities or pursue higher education. Every year, thousands of students sit for this exam, competing for limited university placements. One of the most effective and proven methods to achieve success in A/L exams is practicing past papers along with marking schemes.

In this guide, we provide a complete collection of Sri Lanka A/L past papers from 2020 to 2024 along with their official marking schemes, while also explaining how students can use these resources effectively to maximize their performance.

Why A/L Past Papers Are Important

Practicing A/L past papers is not just about memorizing answers—it is about understanding examiner expectations and improving exam strategies. Here’s why past papers are so valuable

1. Identify Question Trends – Past papers show which topics are frequently tested and help students predict future question patterns.

2. Improve Time Management – Practicing under exam conditions allows students to answer within the given 3-hour timeframe.

3. Understand Marking Schemes – Students learn how marks are allocated, which helps in writing precise answers.

4. Boost Confidence – Familiarity with past papers reduces exam stress and builds self-confidence.

Subjects Covered in A/L Past Papers (2020–2024)

The A/L examination is divided into several major streams. Past papers with marking schemes are available for all of them

Science Stream – Biology, Physics, Chemistry, Combined Mathematics, Agricultural Science

Commerce Stream – Accounting, Economics, Business Studies

Arts Stream – Sinhala, Tamil, History, Political Science, Geography, Logic, Buddhism, and more

Technology Stream – Engineering Technology, Science for Technology (SFT), Bio System Technology (BST), ICT

General English & General Knowledge – Essential for all streams

Each subject’s past papers and marking schemes from 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, and 2024 are now available online.

Where to Download A/L Past Papers (2020–2024)

Students can access free and reliable past paper collections through several platforms

1. Department of Examinations Sri Lanka (doenets.lk) – Official and authentic source for exam past papers and answer guides.

2. Educational Blogs & Websites – Websites like Education SL Info provide categorized collections by year and subject.

3. Google Drive Collections – Many teachers share organized collections for free download.

4. Bookshops & Publications – Printed versions are available with explanations for those who prefer hard copies.

💡 Tip: Always check that the marking scheme is included to get maximum benefit from past papers.

Benefits of Using Marking Schemes

Past papers become even more effective when paired with official marking schemes. They show the exact method examiners use to allocate marks. For example:

A/L Chemistry – Marking schemes highlight correct equations, units, and significant figures.

A/L Biology – Answers must include key terms and scientific accuracy to gain full marks.

A/L Economics – Provides structure for essays, definitions, and graphs.

A/L Mathematics – Marking schemes reveal how step-by-step working earns marks even if the final answer is wrong.

By studying with marking schemes, students can understand the examiner’s mindset and write answers that score the highest possible marks.

How to Study with Past Papers (2020–2024)

Here are some practical steps to get the most out of A/L past papers

1. Plan a Schedule – Dedicate at least 2–3 past papers per subject each month.

2. Simulate Exam Conditions – Practice full papers within the 3-hour time limit without referring to notes.

3. Check Answers with Marking Scheme – Compare and identify mistakes immediately.

4. Analyze Weak Areas – Keep track of topics you struggle with and revise them separately.

5. Repeat with Multiple Years – Cover all past papers from 2020 to 2024 for maximum preparation.

Why Focus on 2020–2024 Past Papers?

While older past papers are also important, the 2020 to 2024 past papers reflect the most recent syllabus updates and exam patterns. Many changes have been introduced in marking schemes and subject syllabi during this period, making these papers highly relevant for upcoming exams.

Conclusion

The A/L past papers and marking schemes from 2020 to 2024 are among the most valuable tools for Sri Lankan students preparing for university entrance. By practicing these papers under exam conditions and studying official marking schemes, students can sharpen their answering techniques, manage time effectively, and boost their confidence before the big exam.