Exam Information

Access Arrangements

Exam access arrangements (EAA) are special arrangements that ensure, where possible, barriers to assessment are removed or reduced for candidates that prevent them from being able to demonstrate their true potential.

These barriers may place a candidate at a substantial disadvantage due to the persistent and significant nature of the difficulties and may include:

– Slow processing speed or rate of working

– Slow reading speed

– Reading accuracy or comprehension difficulties

– Difficulties in concentration, memory and ability to focus for long periods of time

– Poor or illegible handwriting

– Visual processing or visual perceptual skills difficulties

– Auditory processing difficulties

We are able to offer the following exam access arrangements:

– Supervised rest breaks

– 25% extra time

– Word processor/laptop

– Prompter

– Coloured overlay

– Enlarged script

Evidence needed for application for EAA

Candidates who feel that they need an EAA will require evidence of need and normal way of working. An updated assessment will also be required for candidates requesting supervised rest breaks, 25% extra time and/or prompter. The assessment is carried out by the in-house assessor, at a charge of £200 on re-selected dates in Birmingham. The assessment takes about 1- 1 ½ hours. Candidates will also be required to provide the following information:

– Evidence from a clinician where there is a medical need

– Evidence of normal way of working from previous setting or in the form of previous exams where the EAA has been provided e.g. extra time has been given in previous exams

– Evidence of need from examples of where their condition or barrier has been evident in prohibiting them from fulfilling their potential e.g. evidence of running out of time in exams

– Where prior evidence does not exist, there may be a requirement for an updated assessment including completion of a questionnaire

– EHCP: Evidence of current need and current EHCP

FAQ

What's a UCI number?

The UCI number is the Unique Candidates Identity. We can provide you with a UCI number when you submit your examination application form to us.

Where are the examinations held?

Examinations are held at one of our three sites: Sparkhill, Stechford or Small Heath (Conference Hall). You will be notified of the time, day, date and venue of the examination when the Statement of Entry is emailed to you 3 weeks before your exam.

What happens if I miss an examination?

If a candidate fails to take one or more of the papers an x grade will be recorded on the Statement of Results.

What about re sits?

Candidates can re-sit GCSE and A level examinations at our centre. Please consult the examination timetable page for dates.

What should I bring to the examination?

Candidates must bring along proof of their identity (eg Passport, driving licence) to every examination. Only materials stated on the examination paper will be allowed in the examination hall. Mobile phones, USBs, and any technological device capable of storing information must be handed in along with bags and handbags before entering the examination hall.

What are the times for the exams?

We always advise candidates to arrive at the examination centre 45 minutes before the examination is due to start. So for morning examinations please arrive for 8.15am - for an exam start time of 9am and for afternoon examinations please arrive at 12.15pm for an exam start time of 1pm.

What if I arrive late?

Once the examination has begun we are unable to allow any candidate to enter the examination hall.

What happens if I am unhappy with my grade?

Candidates can request their examination papers be remarked. The fee is exam boards remarking fee + a one off €25 admin fee

Can you supply predicted grades?

As a private examination candidate you will not be required to submit predicated grades to UCAS,. On the UCAS form, enter your status as a Private Candidate.

What happens if I have taken modules in a previous examination series?

It is important that you use the same UCI number that was used on your previous examinations. This can be found on your Statement of Entry and your Statement of Results.