A-level Art and Design: important update about ESAs from 2026

If your school or college is entering learners for A-level Art and Design in summer 2026, there’s an important update about the ESA pre-release materials, which are due to be released on 1 February.

In line with Ofqual’s requirements for all exam boards, A-level Art and Design ESA pre-release papers must remain confidential until the date of release, and can no longer be opened before 1 February. Exams officers will still need to check the packages when they arrive and store them securely. Teachers will now only be able to access the papers from 1 February onwards.

The A-level Art and Design Notes and guidance: Practical Guidance for non-exam assessment has also been updated to reflect this change. Teaching colleagues should be aware of these latest requirements.

We appreciate that this may mean some adjustments to your planning, but these changes will make sure we are compliant with Ofqual, and this will maintain the integrity of assessments for all students.

If you’ve made estimated entries for summer 2026, printed copies will begin arriving at your school or college in December. These will also be available from 8.00am on Centre Services on 1 February 2026 to give to your students. If you want to receive printed copies, you must submit estimated entries to us before 10 October 2025.

Thank you, as always, for your understanding in managing these requirements. If you have any questions, you can contact the Art and Design Subject Support team by email at art@aqa.org.uk or you can call us on 01483 437 750.