FREQUENTLY ASKED
QUESTIONS

The O/L Mathematics syllabus covers Number Systems, Algebra, Geometry, Trigonometry, Statistics, and Mensuration. The exam tests both computational skills and mathematical reasoning through structured and essay-type questions.

O/L Mathematics consists of two papers. Paper I is a structured paper (multiple choice and short answers) and Paper II contains longer problem-solving questions. Both papers are sat on the same day or on consecutive days depending on the exam schedule.

The O/L Mathematics examination is graded on a scale from A (Distinction) to S (Simple Pass) and F (Fail). An S grade requires approximately 35% of marks, while an A grade requires 75% or above. Exact cutoffs vary slightly each year.

Practicing the last 5-8 years of O/L Mathematics past papers is recommended. This covers the full range of question types and helps identify the most commonly tested topics. Both the question paper and the marking scheme are available on Ape Danuma.

Non-programmable scientific calculators are permitted in O/L Mathematics Paper II. Paper I (structured) does not require a calculator as questions are designed for mental arithmetic.