DSE Maths exam format: Paper 1, Paper 2, M1 and M2
How the HKDSE Mathematics exam works: the times, weightings and sections of Paper 1 and Paper 2, the M1 and M2 modules, the levels, and the 2027 dates.
HKDSE Mathematics has a Compulsory Part with two papers: Paper 1 (written answers, 2¼ hours, 65%) and Paper 2 (multiple choice, 1¼ hours, 35%). You may add one Extended Part module, M1 or M2, which is a separate 2½-hour paper with its own result.
- 65% Paper 1, conventional questions, 2¼ hours
- 35% Paper 2, multiple choice, 1¼ hours
- 12 April 2027 Compulsory Part Papers 1 and 2, morning
The Compulsory Part: two papers
Every DSE Maths candidate takes the Compulsory Part. It has two papers, and you must attempt every question in both.
Both papers test the Compulsory Part together with the junior secondary (S1–S3) curriculum, so topics such as similar triangles, percentages and simple statistics still appear.
Compulsory Part papers
| Paper | Questions | Time | Weighting |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paper 1 | Conventional (written answers) | 2¼ hours | 65% |
| Paper 2 | Multiple choice | 1¼ hours | 35% |
Paper 1 sections
Paper 1 has three parts worth 35 marks each. Section A(1) and A(2) test the Foundation Topics. Section B can test anything in the Compulsory Part, including the Non-foundation Topics.
Because the three parts carry equal marks, the short questions in A(1) are worth as much in total as the long questions in Section B.
Paper 1
| Section | Marks | Number of questions | Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| A(1) | 35 | 8 to 11 | Elementary |
| A(2) | 35 | 4 to 7 | Harder |
| B | 35 | 4 to 7 | Includes Non-foundation Topics |
Read next: Exam technique: plans for each target level
Paper 2: multiple choice
Paper 2 is all multiple-choice questions in two sections. Section A is worth two-thirds of the paper mark and tests the Foundation Topics. Section B is worth one-third and can test the whole Compulsory Part.
To plan your time, divide the 75 minutes by the number of questions on the cover of the paper you are practising with, and keep a few minutes at the end to check.
M1 and M2: the Extended Part
You can take the Compulsory Part only, or add one module: Module 1 (Calculus and Statistics) or Module 2 (Algebra and Calculus). You cannot take both in the same year.
Each module is one paper of 2½ hours. Section A has 8 to 12 short questions worth 50 marks, and Section B has 3 to 5 long questions worth 50 marks. The M1 paper prints statistical tables where needed, and the M2 paper gives trigonometric formulas.
Your module result is reported separately from your Compulsory Part result.
Levels: from 1 to 5**
Results are reported in five levels, 1 to 5, with 5 the highest. The best level 5 candidates are awarded 5**, and the next group 5*. Performance below level 1 is Unclassified.
2027 exam dates
HKEAA's 2027 timetable puts Compulsory Part Papers 1 and 2 on the morning of Monday 12 April 2027, and the M1 and M2 papers on the morning of Friday 23 April 2027. Check the timetable on HKEAA's website for start times and any changes.
What this means for your revision
Section A of each paper tests the Foundation Topics, so they carry most of the marks. Secure them first, then add Section B topics according to your target level.
You may use an electronic calculator and drawing instruments, so practise with the calculator you will bring. The Compulsory Part framework does not list a formula sheet, so learn the formulas you need.
Read next: The DSE Maths formulas to learn
Exam technique: a plan for your target level
Frequently asked questions
Can I use a calculator in DSE Maths?
Yes. Electronic calculators and drawing instruments may be used in every Mathematics paper. Check HKEAA's current rules on which models are allowed.
Can I take both M1 and M2?
No. You can take the Compulsory Part alone or with one module, M1 or M2, but not both in the same year.
Do I have to answer every question?
Yes. In Paper 1, Paper 2 and the M1 and M2 papers, all questions are to be attempted; there are no optional questions.
Is M1 or M2 part of the Maths grade?
No. The module result is reported separately from the Compulsory Part result.