cie 2010 handbook for centres - igcse - o-levels - a-levels

University of Cambridge International ExaminationsContents

University of Cambridge International ExaminationsContents

Page 2 – 8Alphabetical index

Page 9 – 10Definition of terms

1At a glance guide to using the Handbook

Page 12 – 21Part 1 Introduction

Page 22 – 28Part 2 Assessment entries: for General Qualifications

Page 29 – 58Part 3A Conduct of examinations – General Qualifications and Cambridge International Diploma question paper modules

Page 59 – 63Part 3B Conduct of examinations – Cambridge International Primary Achievement Tests

Page 64 – 69Part 4A Centre-based assessments – General Qualifications – coursework

Page 70 – 76Part 4B Centre-based assessments – General Qualifications – speaking tests (non-coursework)

Page 77 – 78Part 4C Centre-based assessments – Cambridge International Diplomas – on-demand assignment-based

modules

Page 79 – 80Part 4D Centre-based assessments – Cambridge International Diplomas – Centre-assessed modules

Page 81 – 83Part 5 Timetable deviations

Page 84 – 106Part 6 Access arrangements and special consideration

Page 107 – 112Part 7 Malpractice and maladministration

Page 113 – 117Part 8 Examination results

Page 118 – 123Part 9 Enquiries about examination results

All forms and fees referred to in the Handbook are in the Administrative Guide for Centres, and are available electronically on CIE direct.

This Handbook is written in the English language; if this Handbook is translated into any other language, the English language text shall prevail.

University of Cambridge International Examinations2 | Alphabetical index

Alphabetical index

AAccess to assessments 2.2Access arrangements, how to apply for 6.5Access arrangements and special

consideration 6Access arrangements definition of 6.2 principles governing 6.3Accommodation and equipment for Science 25 for the examination 3.1.3 for Cambridge International Primary

Achievement Tests 3.7.3Accreditation of teachers for coursework

assessment 4.2Additional materials booklet 3.2.6Additional sessions for practical

examinations, notification of 5.5Advertising CIE qualifications use of CIE identity 1.19After the examination 3.5Air freight labels 3.6.3 (a)Answer scripts collection of 3.5.2 despatch of 3.6.3 packing of 3.6.2Appeals against the outcome of applications

for access arrangements 6.18 against the outcome of applications

for special consideration 6.28 against decisions of the CIE

Malpractice Committee 7.14 against the outcome of enquiries

about examination results 9.8Applications for enquiries about examination

results 9.1.2 access arrangements 6.5 special consideration 6.21 timetable deviations 5.2Artwork, return of 1.20Assessment material, ownership of 1.15Assessment model overview Centre-assessed modules 4.51 on-demand assignment-based

modules 4.45

Assessment entries, general and professional qualifications timetabled question paper modules 2

Attendance registers 3.2.3Authenticating coursework 4.5

BBar code labels 3.6.1Beginning the examination 3.2

CCalculators 3.3.3 prohibited facilities on calculators 3.3.3 (k) use of during an examination 3.3.3 and

3.2.6.1CAMEO 1.11.5Candidate numbering for general

qualifications 2.2.4Candidate numbers 3.2.2Candidate numbers for professional

question paper modules (unique candidate identifiers) 2.2.3

Candidates correspondence about 2.1.4 disqualification of 2.1.5 eligibility 2.1.1 large numbers in practical

examinations 3.4.4 and 5.5

malpractice by 7.3 private 2.1.2 supervision of 5.6 transferred 2.1.3 with hearing impairment 6.6.3 with infectious/contagious

diseases 3.1.3.6 with learning disabilities 6.6.4 with physical disabilities 6.6.1 with visual impairment 6.6.2Carrying forward of coursework marks 2.6.1.1 and

4.19Cassette tapes 3.4.7Centre responsibilities 1.2

University of Cambridge International ExaminationsAlphabetical index | 3

Centre-assessed modules, professional qualifications 4D

assessment model overview 4.51 completion of learning objective

record sheets 4.52 timescales 4.50Centre-based assessments 4Certificates 8.3 damaged 8.3.2 incorrect candidate/Centre details 8.3.4 lost 8.3.1 missing certifications, deadline for

informing CIE 8.3Certifying statements 8.3.1Certifying statement of provisional

results 8.1Change of contact details 1.25Checklist for invigilators –Clock in examination room 3.1.3.4Collection of answer scripts 3.5.2Collection of question papers 3.5.3Colour blindness 6.16Comments on the examination 3.6.4Communication between CIE and

Centres 1.9Computer-based tests (IGCSE) 3.4.10.3 equipment failure 3.4.10.6 invigilation 3.4.10.5 isolated workstations 3.4.10.4 preparation for 3.4.10.3 timetabling 3.4.10.2Computers, word processors and

electronic typewriters, regulations governing the use of 6.10

Conduct of listening test 3.4.7.2Conduct of the examinations, general

and professional qualifications questions paper modules 3A

Conduct of the examinations, Cambridge International Primary Achievement Tests 3B

Copyright 1.13Correcting fluid/correcting pens, use of 3.2.7 (h) (ii)Correspondence 1.9–1.9.6 about candidates 2.1.4Coursework general qualifications 4A authenticating coursework 4.5 dealing with unsatisfactory practice 4.17 definition of 4.1 enquiries about 4.22 failure to complete coursework 4.10 identification labels 4.14.2 incomplete or extra coursework 4.9 lost or damaged 6.26

malpractice in 4.21 and 7.7 marking of 4.8 presentation of 4.7 retaining evidence 4.15 return of 4.18 re-use of 4.20 sample return labels

(code URL003) 4.14.2 (a) shortfall in 6.25 submitting for more than one

syllabus 4.3 supervising coursework 4.6Coursework marks carrying forward 4.19Criteria for submission of samples of

coursework 4.14.1

DDamaged certificates 8.3.2Damaged coursework 6.26Deadlines for applications for access

arrangements 6.5 (k) applications for special

consideration 6.21 (c) applications for timetable

deviations 5.2 (a) enquiries about examination

results 9.1.2Declaration of interest 3.1.5Declaration of interest in a person taking

a CIE examination (form)Definition of termsDespatch of answer scripts 3.6.3Dictionaries, use of during an

examination 3.3.5Display material in the examination

room 3.1.3.3Disqualification of candidates 2.1.5Duration of papers 5.2 (f)

EElectronic support services 1.11Eligibility for special consideration 6.21Emergencies during examinations 3.3.10

Alphabetical index


Alphabetical index

Enquiries about coursework 4.22Enquiries about examination results 9.1Entries, general and professional

qualifications timetabled question paper modules 2

estimated entry information 2.2.1 final entries 2.2.2 late entries 2.4 on-demand assignment-based

modules 4.47.1 online/viewing on secure website 2.2.6 statements of entry 2.2.5Entry amendments 2.4Entry closing dates 2.2.2Entry fees 2.4 for on-demand assignment-based

modules 4.47.3Entry restrictions 2.1.1 for private candidates 2.1.2Equal opportunities 1.23Estimated entry information 2.2.1Examination beginning the examination 3.2 during the examination 3.3 finishing 3.5.1 preparation for 3.1 seating arrangements 3.1.3.6Examination grades AICE Diploma 8.2.4 AICE Half-Credit 8.2.3 Cambridge International Primary

Achievement Test 8.2.9 Checkpoint 8.2.8 GCE A Level 8.2.1 GCE AS Level 8.2.2 GCE O Level 8.2.5 HIGCSE 8.2.7 ICE 8.2.6 IGCSE 8.2.6 Professional qualifications 8.2.10Examination material 1.14 receipt of 3.1.1 security of 3.1.2Examination reports 8.5Examination results 8 enquiries about 9Examination room 3.1.3.2Examination venue 3.1.3.1Examiners for non-coursework speaking

tests 4.24 appointment of 4.24Extra coursework 4.9

FFailure to complete coursework 4.10Final entries 2.2.2Finishing the examination 3.5.1Forecast grades 2.3Full Centre Supervision Definition of terms, 3.3.8, 3.4.1.3, 3.4.3.3, 3.5.4 and 5.1

GGlue, use of 3.2.7 (h (iii))

HHearing impairment guidance on 6.6.3Highlighters use of 3.2.7 (h (iii))

IIdentification of candidates 3.2.1IGCSE Art & Design 0400 labels 4.14.2 (e)Incomplete coursework 4.9Information to display in the examination

room 3.1.3.5Internally-assessed coursework,

submission of marks for 4.13Internally-assessed oral examinations,

submission of marks for 4.13Inspection of Centres 1.2 and

1.2.9, 1.6 and 3.2

Introduction 1


Invigilation arrangements for 3.1.4 Cambridge International Primary

Achievement Tests 3.7.4 checklist for invigilators – guide for Science practical

examinations – IGCSE computer-based tests 3.4.10.5 IGCSE ICT practical tests – instructions for multiple-choice

papers – of multiple-choice papers 3.1.4 of practical examinations in Science

syllabuses 3.4.5Irregular conduct during an examination 3.3.9IT IGCSE practical tests 3.4.9

KKey Time Definition

of terms, 3.1.4 (g), 3.2 and 5.1

See also 3.3.6, 3.3.8

and 3.5.4

LLarge numbers of candidates in practical

examinations 3.4.4 and 5.5

Late arrival of candidates 3.3.6 and 3.3.7

Late entries 2.4Learning disabilities, guidance on 6.6.4Leaving the examination room 3.3.8Listening test conduct of 3.4.3.2 checking tapes 3.4.3.1 invigilation of 3.4.1.4 special instructions for IGCSE and

GCE 3.4.3Local arrangements for Centres 1.6Lost certificates 8.3.1Lost coursework 6.2.6

MMaladministration by Centre staff 7.4Malpractice and maladministration 7 by candidates 7.3 by Centre staff 7.4 cases identified by the Centre 7.5 cases identified by CIE 7.6 CIE procedures 7.2 in coursework 4.21 and 7.7 in Centre-based assessments 7.7Marking coursework 4.8Materials for practical examinations in

Science syllabuses 3.4.3 and 3.2.6

Mathematical tables use of during an examination 3.3.4

Methods of communication 1.9Moderation report on 4.16 submission of sample for

moderation 4.14

NName changes 8.3.3No result, explanation of 9.1.1Non-air freight labels 3.6.3Notice to candidates 3.1.3.5

OOn-demand assignment-based modules 4C assessment model overview 4.45 entries 4.47 presentation of assignments 4.48 submission of assignments 4.46 timescales 4.44Open books literature components 3.4.8Oral examinations, submission of marks

for internally-assessed examinations 4.13

Alphabetical index


Alphabetical index

Outline proposal form 4.4Overnight supervision of candidates 5.6(c)

PPacking of answer scripts 3.6.2Parent Organisations 1.6 and Sub-Centres 1.6 responsibilities of 1.6Pens 3.2.6 colour of ink 3.2.6 use of in examination 3.2.6Pending result, explanation of 9.1.1Perishable specimens 3.4.3Physical disabilities, guidance on 6.6.1Practical assistants, regulations

governing the use of 6.12Practical examinations 3.3.2Practical examinations in Science

syllabuses 3.4.1 invigilation of 3.4.1.4 large numbers of candidates 3.4.1.3 materials to be used in 3.4.1.2 perishable specimens 3.4.1.2Practical tests for IGCSE ICT 3.4.5.1 equipment failure 3.4.5.6 invigilation of 3.4.5.4 preparation for 3.4.5.3 security issues 3.4.5.5 timetabling of 3.4.5.2Preparation for the examination 3.1Presentation of coursework 4.7Presentation of assignments, on-demand

assignment-based modules 4.48Private candidates 2.1.2Professional qualifications 4C, D Centre-assessed modules 4D on-demand assignment-based

modules 4CPrompters regulations governing the

use of 6.13Provisional examination results 8.1

QQualification type, at a glance guide for using the

Handbook –Question papers 24 hour security rule 3.5.3 and

5.7 collection of 3.5.3 ownership of 1.15 receipt of 3.1.1 security of 3.1.2 and

3.7.2Question paper packets 3.5.3

RReaders regulations governing the use

of 6.8Receipt of question papers and

examination material 3.1.1 and 3.7.1

Refund of fees 2.5Regulation enquiries, communication of

outcomes 1.9 and 1.9.3

Report on moderation 4.16Responsibilities of the Centre 1.2 of Parent Organisation 1.6Result enquiries 9 appeals against the outcome of 9.8 applications for 9.1.2 (a) deadline for application 9.1.2 (b) outcome of 9.7 services available 9.2Results provisional examination results 8.1 verification of 8.8 viewing on secure website 1.11 and 8.1Results and certificates, amendments to 8.6Retaining coursework evidence 4.15Retaking examinations 2.6Return of artwork 1.20Return of coursework 4.18Returned scripts, use of 9.9Re-use of coursework 4.20


Rough work during examinations 3.2.7 (h (iv)) and 3.5.1(c)

SSamples of coursework criteria for the submission of 4.14.1 instructions for the submission of 4.14.2Science accommodation and equipment 1.26Science syllabuses, special instructions

for practical examinations 3.4.1Science syllabuses, use of calculators 3.2.6.1Scribe/writer regulations governing the

use of 6.9Scripts despatch of 3.6.3 return of 1.16 use of returned 9.9Seating arrangements for the

examination 3.1.3.6Seating plan 3.2.4Security, 24 hour rule 3.5.3 and

5.7Security of question papers and

examination materials 3.1.2 and 3.7.2

Shortfall in coursework 6.25Software use of CIE software 1.13Speaking tests, coursework 4ASpeaking tests, non-coursework 4B absentee candidates 4.32 appointment of examiner 4.24 Centre enquiries about speaking

tests 4.42 deadlines for submission of marks

and samples 4.36 dealing with unsatisfactory practice 4.40 definition of a non-coursework

speaking test 4.23 dishonesty and malpractice 4.29 estimated entries 4.26 failure to complete 4.33 instructions for the submission of

speaking test materials 4.37.3 marking of speaking tests internal

assessment 4.31 materials for non-coursework

speaking tests 4.27 recording of sample for moderation 4.37.1

report on moderation 4.39 requests for special consideration 4.34 retaining non-coursework speaking

test evidence 4.38 return of speaking tests 4.41 selection of sample for moderation 4.37.2 special instructions for IGCSE

speaking tests 3.4.6 and 4.28

standardising marking within Centres 4.35

timetabling 4.30 training and accreditation of

teacher/examiners 4.25Special arrangements refer to: Access arrangements 6.5Special consideration for coursework 6.25 and

6.26Special consideration definition of 6.19 eligibility for 6.21 how to apply for 6.21 principles governing 6.20Specimens for Science syllabuses 3.4.3Staged assessment 2.7Standardising marking within Centres 4.12Starting the examination 3.2.7Statements of entry 2.2.5 for on-demand assignment-based

modules 4.47.2Statements of results 8.1Stationery unused 3.5.4 and materials/other equipment for

the examination 3.2.6 and materials for Science papers 3.2.6.1Submission of applications for timetable

deviations 5.2 assignments for on-demand

assignment-based modules 4.46 coursework, sample instructions for 4.14.2 coursework, sample for

moderation 4.14 enquiries about examination results 9.1.2 marks for internally-assessed

coursework 4.13 marks for internally-assessed oral

examinations 4.13 marks and samples for

non-coursework speaking tests 4.36Submitting coursework for more than

one syllabus 4.3Supervision arrangements for a

Alphabetical index


Alphabetical index

timetable deviation 5.6Supervising coursework 4.6Supervision of candidates during the

examination 3.3.1Supervision of candidates for timetable

deviations 5.6Supervision of candidates overnight for

timetable deviations 5.6 (c)

TTapes 3.4.7Teacher support website 1.12Teachers training and accreditation for

coursework assessment 4.2Telephone communication 1.10Time restrictions for candidates taking

examinations 5.2 (f)Timetable deviations 5 introduction 5.1 reasons which may be considered 5.3 submission of application for 5.2 supervision arrangements for 5.6 unacceptable reasons for 5.4Training of teachers for coursework

assessment 4.2Transcript regulations governing the

production of 6.11Transferred candidates 2.1.3Twenty-four hour security rule 3.5.3 and

5.7

UUnauthorised materials in an

examination 3.2.5Unique candidate identifier (UCI) for

professional qualifications 2.2.3University entrance 8.7

VVerification of results 8.8Visual impairment guidance on 6.6

WWebsite 1.11

University of Cambridge International ExaminationsDefinition of terms | 9

Access Arrangements (previously known as Special Arrangements)

These are arrangements to allow candidates with substantial and long-term disabilities access to the examinations. They must be made before the examination takes place.

Agreement

The contract between the Centre and CIE in the form specified by CIE from time to time.

Assessment

The method used to evaluate a candidate’s performance e.g. written examination, coursework.

Candidate

A person who has entered for an assessment.

Centre

A school, institution or organisation that has been approved and registered with CIE for the entry of candidates to CIE qualifications and for the conduct of the assessments for these qualifications.

Centre Status

This is the status awarded to a school, institution or organisation once it has been approved and registered with CIE. Centre status may be withdrawn by CIE at any time and without giving reason for doing so.

CIE Direct

CIE Direct is a secure extranet website for the direct electronic transfer of data and information between Centres and CIE. https://direct.cie.org.uk

Distributor

A distributor is an organisation that acts as a Parent Organisation under a distributor agreement with CIE.

Examinations Officer/Centre Co-ordinator

The person appointed by the Head of Centre to act on behalf of the Centre, with specific responsibility for the administration of CIE examinations. (The Head of Centre may also be the Examinations Officer/Centre Co-ordinator).

Full Centre Supervision

Candidates must be kept under Full Centre Supervision, or examination conditions at the KEY TIME for an examination as specified for the applicable morning or afternoon examination session on the FINAL examination timetable.

Candidates may be in the examination room, doing their examination, under the supervision of invigilators.

Or, if the KEY TIME is before the start of the examination, they must be supervised by teachers or invigilators from the KEY TIME until the start of the examination. They can have access to their books and notes, and they can talk to each other. However, they must not have any access to telephones, mobile phones, the Internet, or any means of external communication; and they must not be allowed any communication with anyone not under Full Centre Supervision.

Or, if they have finished their examination, they may be permitted to leave the examination room provided that they are supervised by teachers or invigilators continuously from the time they leave until the KEY TIME. Once outside the exam room, they can have access to their books and notes, and they can talk to each other (provided that they do not cause any disturbance to candidates who are still doing an examination). However, they must not have any access to telephones, mobile phones, the Internet, or any means of external communication; and they must not be allowed any communication with anyone not under Full Centre Supervision.

Head of Centre

A Head of Centre is the person legally responsible for an institution approved by CIE as a Centre for its examinations. The duties may be delegated to the Head or Principal of a school, college or similar institution, or the Centre co-ordinator but the responsibilities under

Definition of terms

University of Cambridge International Examinations10 | Definition of terms

Definition of terms

this Handbook will remain with the Head of Centre.

Invigilator/Supervisor

The person appointed by the Head of Centre to be responsible for the proper conduct of a particular examination in accordance with CIE’s examination regulations.

Key Time

The time stipulated on the final examination timetable at which all candidates must be under Full Centre Supervision. KEY TIME will always be expressed as GMT/UTC. Where the term is used it will be shown in bold and capitals.

Parent Organisation

A body such as a ministry, examinations council, distributor, department of education, Cambridge International partner or other agency, which has control of, and administrative responsibility for Centres or Sub-Centres through an agreement with CIE.

Special Consideration

An adjustment to the marks or grades of a candidate who may have been affected by a potentially wide range of difficulties, during or just before their examinations.

Sub-Centres

Centres, also known as attached or affiliated Centres, which prepare candidates for CIE qualifications and which are under the control of a Parent Organisation.

Venue

A location where written examinations or assessments are undertaken.

University of Cambridge International ExaminationsAt a glance guide to using the Handbook | 11

Handbook section

Qualifi cation

Par

t 1:

Intr

oduc

tion

Par

t 2:

Ass

essm

ent

entr

ies:

for

Gen

eral

Qua

lific

atio

ns

Par

t 3A

: Con

duct

of

exam

inat

ions

– G

ener

al

Qua

lific

atio

ns a

nd P

rofe

ssio

nal q

uest

ion

pape

r m

odul

es

Par

t 3B

: Con

duct

of

exam

inat

ions

– C

ambr

idge

In

tern

atio

nal P

rimar

y A

chie

vem

ent T

ests

Par

t 4A

: Cen

tre-

base

d as

sess

men

t –

Gen

eral

Q

ualif

icat

ions

cou

rsew

ork

Par

t 4B

: Cen

tre-

base

d as

sess

men

t –

Gen

eral

Q

ualif

icat

ions

spe

akin

g te

sts

(non

-cou

rsew

ork)

Par

t 4C

: Cen

tre-

base

d as

sess

men

t –

Prof

essi

onal

Q

ualif

icat

ions

– o

n-de

man

d as

sign

men

t-ba

sed

mod

ules

Par

t 4D

: Cen

tre-

base

d as

sess

men

t –

Prof

essi

onal

Q

ualif

icat

ions

– C

entr

e-as

sess

ed m

odul

es

Par

t 5:

Tim

etab

le d

evia

tions

Par

t 6:

Acc

ess

arra

ngem

ents

and

spe

cial

con

side

ratio

n

Par

t 7:

Mal

prac

tice

and

mal

adm

inis

trat

ion

Par

t 8:

Exa

min

atio

n re

sults

Par

t 9:

Enq

uire

s ab

out

exam

inat

ion

resu

lts

General qualifi cations

AICE Diploma/AICE Half-Credit • • • • • • • • • •

Checkpoint • • • • •

GCE A Level • • • • • • • • • •

GCE AS Level • • • • • • • • • •

GCE O Level • • • • • • • • •

HIGCSE • • • • • • • • • •

IGCSE • • • • • • • • • •

Cambridge International Diplomas

in Business • • • • • • • • •

in Management • • • • • • •

in Teaching with ICT Award • • • • • •

for Teachers and Trainers • • • • • •

Additional assessments

Cambridge International Primary Achievement Tests • • • • • • •

Cambridge ICT Starters • • • • • • •

Cambridge Young Enterprise International • • • • • • • •

At a glance guide to using the Handbook

At a glance

University of Cambridge International Examinations12 | Part 1: Introduction

Part 1: Introduction

1.1 Legal status of this Handbook

1.1.1 The regulations and procedures contained in this Handbook apply to all qualifications provided by University of Cambridge International Examinations (CIE).

1.1.2 Under the terms of the agreement signed between CIE and the Centre, (the Agreement), the Centre must comply with the terms and conditions specified in this Handbook because the Handbook forms part of the Agreement between CIE and Centres.

1.1.3 By registering with, and submitting entries to CIE, the Centre agrees to be bound by the terms and conditions, processes and procedures as set out in this Handbook, any and all Centre registration documents and any agreements issued by CIE to the Centre. The Centre shall carry out their obligations in full as set out in these documents.

1.1.4 All services to be provided to a Centre by CIE are conditional on the payment by a Centre of all fees due to CIE in accordance with CIE’s payment terms and the Agreement.

1.1.5 CIE may issue:

1.1.5.1 additional administrative or procedural documents

1.1.5.2 instructions for the conduct of specific examinations (e.g. written papers, module assessments, coursework, orals, practical and on-line tests)

The Centre must comply with these documents in the same way as the Handbook and they form part of the Centre’s Agreement with CIE.

1.1.6 CIE reserves the right to amend or vary from time to time the provisions of the Handbook for Centres and the additional documents noted in paragraph 1.1.5. CIE will notify Centres of such amendments in circulars or notices and the amendments shall have immediate effect unless otherwise stated.

1.1.7 CIE’s interpretation of the provisions in the Handbook for Centres and of any other instructions, circulars and notices is final.

1.2 Responsibilities of Centres

1.2.1 The Centre is responsible for the proper administration and conduct of CIE’s assessments.

1.2.2 The responsibilities of the Centre must be discharged by or through the Head of Centre.

1.2.3 The Centre must not offer courses leading to CIE qualifications without first acquiring from CIE written approval of their eligibility to administer the corresponding assessments.

1.2.4 If a Centre wants to offer additional qualifications beyond what were approved initially it must complete a Request for Change of Qualification/Syllabus Eligibility Form (Form 31 in the Administrative Guide for Centres) and return this form to CIE Customer Services. A copy of this form is on CIE Direct.

1.2.5 The Centre must notify CIE if the Centre changes premises. It must also inform CIE of any changes to contact details, including changes to its email address, telephone or fax numbers.

1.2.6 CIE will accept notification of changes via CIE Direct, in writing or by fax on official letter headed stationery from the Centre. Please note that for security reasons CIE cannot accept notification of changes of address by telephone or e-mail.

1.2.7 The Centre must ensure that:

1.2.7.1 the correct version of the syllabus is administered for each examination session

1.2.7.2 all tutors involved in the delivery of qualifications in the Centre understand the subject area concerned.

1.2.8 The Centre must not do anything that in any way brings into disrepute the name, reputation or interests of CIE, its employees, or its products or services.

1.2.9 If a Centre does not comply with the terms and conditions, processes and procedures set out in this Handbook, CIE shall, at its full discretion, be entitled to take such action as it deems

University of Cambridge International ExaminationsPart 1: Introduction | 13

appropriate to address these failings. CIE may:

1.2.9.1 require the Centre to take remedial action to address concerns

1.2.9.2 require the Centre to undergo further inspection and quality assurance visits, or

1.2.9.3 remove Centre status and terminate any contract between CIE and the Distributor.

1.2.10 CIE reserves the right to require the Centre to pay any and all costs incurred by CIE in the conduct of any required inspection or other quality assurance processes required by paragraph 1.3.2 of this Handbook.

1.3 Inspections

1.3.1 The Centre must co-operate with and facilitate any inspection of it by or on behalf of CIE, including giving access to secure storage.

1.3.2 If the Centre changes premises, CIE may carry out a re-inspection. The Centre will pay CIE’s inspection charges for this re-inspection.

1.3.3 CIE usually carries out unannounced inspections when examinations are being held. CIE inspectors may also inspect the arrangements for the security of examination material and for conducting examinations at times outside the examination period.

1.4 Candidates

1.4.1 Centres will correspond with candidates on every aspect of the examinations on behalf of CIE.

1.4.2 Centres will issue to each candidate entered through the Centre:

1.4.2.1 details of the dates and times of his or her examinations

1.4.2.2 a statement of the candidate’s examination entry

1.4.2.3 the candidate’s provisional results

1.4.2.4 any certificate issued by CIE.

1.4.3 Centres must make sure that candidates have access to suitable accommodation and specified equipment and materials, including those that involve practical tests (see Part 3).

1.4.4 Centres are responsible for making sure that CIE can identify all candidates in each assessment, including private candidates (see Part 3) and that all candidates are aware that their data will be passed to third parties.

1.4.5 Centres are responsible for the submission of candidates’ work and must make sure:

1.4.5.1 that the work contained in every candidate’s assessment submission meets the criteria specified in the syllabus for the relevant examination session

1.4.5.2 that candidates’ work is produced and, where appropriate, marked internally, moderated and despatched according to CIE’s instructions (see Part 4).

1.5 Examination administration

1.5.1 The Centre must send to CIE:

1.5.1.1 details of estimated and actual entries (see Part 2)

1.5.1.2 marks for internally-assessed components (see Parts 4A and 4B)

1.5.1.3 forecast grades (see Part 2)

1.5.1.4 any other information that CIE may reasonably require in relation to its examinations, in accordance with the instructions given when the information is requested.

1.5.2 If the Centre wishes to make any applications for access arrangements or special considerations, they must send these to CIE in accordance with the regulations and guidance laid out in this Handbook (see Part 6).

1.5.3 If the Centre wishes to make any applications for changes to the venue or timetable they must send these to CIE in accordance with the regulations laid out in this Handbook (see Part 3 and Part 5).




1.5.4 The Centre is responsible for the receipt and security of examination materials at all times. Centres must carry out the following in accordance with CIE’s regulations:

1.5.4.1 the secure storage of all examination materials

1.5.4.2 the distribution of the examination papers to the candidates

1.5.4.3 the collection of scripts at the end of each examination

1.5.4.4 the appropriate return of scripts to CIE

1.5.4.5 check that the correct version of zoned materials are received.

1.5.5 The Centre will ensure that the maintenance of constant and effective supervision of the candidates is carried out in accordance with CIE’s regulations.

1.5.6 The Centre will appoint suitable invigilators and must ensure that they are familiar with the instructions contained in Part 3 of this Handbook.

1.5.7 Centres shall work with CIE to prevent malpractice or maladministration and, in particular, shall:

1.5.7.1 report to CIE any established, suspected or alleged cases of malpractice by a candidate

1.5.7.2 report to CIE any malpractice or maladministration by a member of staff discovered by the Centre

1.5.7.3 assist any investigation into malpractice or maladministration suspected by CIE

1.5.7.4 provide such information and advice as CIE may reasonably require to assist with any such investigation (see Part 7).

1.5.8 The Centre shall submit and process any result enquiry or appeal in accordance with the appropriate regulations (see Part 9).

1.5.9 The Centre must retain all unclaimed certificates under secure conditions for a minimum period of twelve months from the date of issue and not destroy any unclaimed certificates (see

Part 8).

1.6 Responsibilities of Parent Organisations

1.6.1 When assessments are under the control of a Parent Organisation, the Parent Organisation will assume full responsibility for the administration of the assessments in the Sub-Centres concerned and for the carrying out on behalf of the Sub-Centre all obligations in this Handbook and any supplementary material.

1.6.2 Parent Organisations will apply to register Sub-Centres with CIE. CIE reserves the right to refuse these applications.

1.6.3 A Parent Organisation must comply with all appropriate terms and conditions in this Handbook (including Sections 2, 3 and 4) and any other regulations and notices issued by CIE from time to time as described in paragraph 1.5.

1.6.4 In addition to the duties laid out in paragraph 1.5.3, Parent Organisations will do the following and undertake to do so on behalf of their Sub-Centres:

1.6.4.1 issue to each Sub-Centre details of the dates and times of their candidates’ examinations; statements of the candidates’ examination entries; the candidates’ provisional results; any certificates issued by CIE

1.6.4.2 inspect Sub-Centres in accordance with the regulations stated in the Handbook

1.6.4.3 complete a Change of Qualifications or Syllabus Eligibilities Form and return it to CIE Customer Services should a Parent or Sub-Centre wish to change its qualification or syllabus eligibilities.

1.6.5 CIE inspectors may inspect the arrangements within Parent Organisations or Sub-Centres for the security of examination material and for conducting examinations at times outside the examination period.

1.6.6 CIE may carry out unannounced inspections of Sub-Centres when examinations are being held. Parent Organisations and their Sub-Centres must co-operate with and facilitate any visit


from an inspector, including giving access to secure storage.

1.6.7 If the Parent Organisation changes premises, CIE may carry out a re-inspection. The Centre will pay CIE’s inspection charges for this re-inspection.

1.6.8 The Parent Organisation and Sub-Centres must co-operate with and facilitate any inspection of it or them by or on behalf of CIE, including giving access to secure storage.

1.6.9 A Parent Organisation must submit to CIE any additional obligations it wishes to impose on its Sub-Centres and must not impose any such obligations on a Sub-Centre without CIE’s approval.

1.6.10 A Parent Organisation may collect fees from Sub-Centres in accordance with the Agreement and Handbook.

1.6.11 A Parent Organisation is responsible for the payment to CIE of all fees due from it or its Sub-Centres to CIE, in particular:

1.6.11.1 CIE’s examination fees

1.6.11.2 CIE’s annual registration fee, if any

1.6.11.3 inspection fees.

1.6.12 A Parent Organisation will submit to CIE for approval details of the fees that it will charge to Sub-Centres and must wait for approval of those fees before charging them to Sub-Centres.

1.6.13 A Parent Organisation shall give Sub-Centres reasonable notice of the fees they will charge or any changes to those fees.

1.7 Sub-Centre inspections

1.7.1 A Parent Organisation shall regularly inspect its Sub-Centres to ensure that they have the appropriate facilities, equipment and teaching resources to deliver the curriculum and to prepare candidates for entry to CIE qualifications.

1.7.2 Parent Organisations shall carry out an initial registration approval inspection then regular inspections in subsequent years for each

Sub-Centre.

1.7.3 All inspections undertaken by the Parent Organisation shall be at the Parent Organisation’s own expense and at no cost to CIE.

1.7.4 A Parent Organisation shall ensure that its inspection reports are available for access by CIE and shall inform CIE of its inspections schedule at the beginning of each year.

1.8 Responsibilities of a Sub-Centre

1.8.1 Sub-Centres must comply with the terms and conditions for Centres in this Handbook.

1.8.2 Sub-Centres must also comply with any specific terms that have been agreed with their Parent Organisation in accordance with the terms of this Handbook.

1.9 Communication between CIE and the Centre

1.9.1 The Centre should use the method of communication most appropriate to both the subject matter and the urgency of the communication. Where the Regulations specify a particular means of communication, this must be used.

1.9.2 Unless instructed otherwise, Centres should address all communications to CIE Customer Services.

1.9.3 All correspondence between CIE and the Centre must be conducted in English. This applies even when assessments are offered in a language other than English.

1.9.4 The Head of Centre, or their designated deputy, must sign all letters from the Centre to CIE.

1.9.5 Centres must send all correspondence to:

Customer Services University of Cambridge International

Examinations 1 Hills Road Cambridge CB1 2EU United Kingdom

Fax: +44 1223 553558




Centres must send all forms to the address shown on them or in their accompanying instructions.

1.9.6 The Centre may send enquiries by email to: [email protected]. Messages that are sent by email will normally be replied to by email.

1.9.7 The Centre must include the following information in the text of its messages:

1.9.7.1 Centre name and number

1.9.7.2 name, position and title, of the member of staff sending the message

1.9.7.3 for continuing email correspondence, the CIE reference number included in CIE’s initial response to that matter.

1.9.8 Centres should not attach files to the text of the email message.

1.9.9 The Centre may also contact CIE by filling in the online feedback form on CIE’s website at:

www.cie.org.uk/contactus/

1.10 Telephone communication

1.10.1 For enquiries relating to the issues covered in this Handbook or any other administrative matter, Centres shall, in the first instance, contact Customer Services on +44 1223 553554.

1.10.2 For telephone calls made in response to a communication from CIE or following up a previous contact, Centres should use the telephone number provided for that purpose.

1.10.3 In circumstances where telephone contact is made, the Centre should obtain written confirmation of any response concerning the interpretation of CIE’s regulations. CIE does not accept responsibility for any misinterpretation of information, advice or guidance given by telephone.

1.11 CIE Direct and electronic entries

1.11.1 A Centre can view and download its entries and results from the CIE Direct website: https://direct.cie.org.uk.

1.11.2 CIE Direct helps Centres to:

1.11.2.1 administer CIE examinations

1.11.2.2 download information and documents from CIE and keep up to date through regular bulletins

1.11.2.3 transmit examination data files to CIE directly and securely via the Internet.

1.11.3 Centres must ensure that user names and passwords issued by CIE are given only to staff who are authorised by the Centre to have access to CIE software. Under no circumstances must Centres give this information to candidates or to any other unauthorised person.

1.11.4 Failure to comply with paragraph 1.11.3 may lead to CIE suspending all services with the Centre or terminating the Agreement.

1.11.5 CAMEO is CIE’s examination administration software package. It allows Centres to import base data (session-related, syllabus and timetable information), to input candidate information and to produce electronic files that they can use to send entries, entry amendments, forecast grades and internally-assessed marks.

1.11.6 Centres can upload to CIE all the file types generated by CAMEO via the CIE Direct website. CIE will receive files that Centres submit in this way almost simultaneously, reducing postage costs for Centres and eliminating delay.

1.11.7 The CAMEO Software is available on CD-ROM, and Centres can request a copy from Customer Services.

1.11.8 If a Centre does not use CAMEO it may submit its examination data via Excel entry forms available on CIE Direct.

1.11.9 If a Centre does not use the CIE Direct website to transmit data, it must export electronic files onto CD-ROM, clearly labelled with the Centre’s name and number and sent securely to CIE.

1.11.10 CIE will not under any circumstances accept entries via email.


1.12 Use of CIE teacher support website

1.12.1 Access to the teacher support website is available only to University of Cambridge International Centres and Sub-Centres. If a Sub-Centre does not have access to the teacher support website it should contact its Parent Organisation for further information.

1.12.2 Access to the site is restricted to teachers at Centres and is subject to the terms and conditions shown on the site. Centres must not give access to the teacher support website to students or to individuals who are not employed by the Centre.

1.12.3 All users of the teacher support website must have their own login details and they must not share passwords.

1.12.4 Re-publication, alteration, transmission, resale or redistribution in any form or by any means of the content of the teacher support website is expressly prohibited.

1.12.5 Failure to comply with paragraphs 1.12.1, 1.12.2, 1.12.3 and 1.12.4 may lead to CIE suspending all services with the Centre or terminating the Agreement.

1.13 Use of CIE software

1.13.1 Centres may use products or services from CIE that require the use of software supplied by CIE. In using software from CIE, Centres must agree to protect the copyright by entering into any relevant licensing agreements and using the software in accordance with those agreements.

1.13.2 Centres must comply with any licensing conditions under which the software is offered for use.

1.14 Copyright in examination material

1.14.1 Copyright and any other intellectual property rights in all material (including examinations, assessments and syllabuses) delivered by CIE to the Centre under the Agreement is owned by and shall remain with CIE.

1.14.2 The Centre may reproduce copies of past question papers and other materials for which CIE holds copyright, for internal Centre purposes, provided that copies are:

1.14.2.1 limited to one per candidate entered for the syllabus

1.14.2.2 used exclusively by candidates at the Centre in connection with their class work or internal assessments

1.14.2.3 not offered for sale or distribution in any circumstances

1.14.2.4 produced retaining all CIE copyright symbols, acknowledgement and notices intact

1.14.2.5 not claimed to be warranted by CIE

1.14.2.6 not passed to any third party.

1.14.3 The Centre must not distribute past papers electronically, including on websites only accessible over the Centre’s intranet.

1.14.4 If staff at a Centre wish to use material owned by CIE in any publications they are developing, they must request an application form from CIE Customer Services.

1.14.5 CIE cannot give permission to reproduce:

1.14.5.1 text taken from any books published for or on behalf of CIE or with the approval of CIE

1.14.5.2 any third party copyright material contained within the past papers; Centres can identify these items by the copyright acknowledgements which appear either under each item, or at the back of the question paper

1.14.5.3 musical scores

1.14.5.4 audio or video cassettes or tapes

1.14.5.5 CDs, DVDs or mini-discs

1.14.5.6 photographs

1.14.5.7 maps.




1.15 Ownership of assessed material

1.15.1 All material submitted for assessment will become the physical property of CIE.

1.15.2 CIE will not return examination answer scripts to Centres, with the exception of examination work for IGCSE Art and Design, for which a return fee is charged.

1.15.3 Centres must request the return of examination work for IGCSE Art and Design by completing Form ARF003, which is in the Administrative Guide for Centres.

1.15.4 CIE will return photocopies of examination answer scripts to the Centre as part of the enquiries about results services (Part 9).

1.15.5 CIE will normally return to the Centre general qualifications coursework submitted for external marking, but may keep some items for awarding and archive purposes.

1.15.6 If CIE keeps general qualifications coursework it shall inform the Centre which items it will keep.

1.15.7 For professional qualifications, CIE will not normally return to the Centre assessments submitted for external marking or external moderation.

1.16 Ownership of CIE examination question papers

1.16.1 All CIE examination question papers shall remain the property of CIE until the question papers are released to the Centre after the examination, in accordance with either the 24 hour secure storage regulation, or the regulations relating to IGCSE ICT examinations (see section 3.5.3).

1.16.2 CIE will continue to own any intellectual property rights to the papers.

1.17 Copyright and candidates’ work

1.17.1 CIE reserves the right to use assessment answer scripts and coursework material or extracts that have been made anonymous for educational presentations, materials and

products, which it may publish either in printed format or electronically.

1.17.2 In addition, CIE reserves the right to use candidates’ work for educational purposes, e.g. for standard setting, the training of teachers and examiners or to demonstrate standards in the process of recognition of CIE’s qualifications by universities and other organisations.

1.18 Referring to CIE

1.18.1 The Centre must refer to CIE as ‘CIE’ or ‘University of Cambridge International Examinations’, and must not refer to CIE as the ‘University of Cambridge’ or ‘Cambridge University’. The Centre must not abbreviate this to any other acronyms, e.g. UCIE.

1.18.2 CIE is part of the Cambridge Assessment group. Cambridge Assessment is the brand name of University of Cambridge Local Examinations Syndicate (UCLES), a department of the University of Cambridge.

1.18.3 When translating ‘University of Cambridge International Examinations’ into another language, the most appropriate wording is ‘the examinations department of the University of Cambridge (England)’.

1.19 The CIE Identity

1.19.1 The term CIE Identity refers to the CIE logo and associated text.

1.19.2 The following CIE Identities are authorised for use by Centres. The status of the Centre dictates which CIE Identity it should use.

1.19.3 CIE also has a number of trademarks, registered or otherwise, known in this Handbook as the CIE Marks. This means any trademark, registered mark or design or any other identifier that is identified with CIE, Cambridge University, University of Cambridge Local Examination Syndicate or Cambridge Assessment. These include ‘CIE’, ‘University of Cambridge


International Examinations’, ‘University of Cambridge Local Examinations Syndicate’, ‘UCLES’, the ‘University of Cambridge’, ‘Cambridge’ or ‘Cambridge Assessment’.

1.20 Regulations governing the use of CIE Centre status artwork

1.20.1 If a Centre does not follow the instructions contained in sections 1.18, 1.19 and 1.20 or misuses the CIE Identity or CIE Marks, it may have its Centre status withdrawn and the Agreement terminated.

1.20.2 The Centre may use the CIE Identity appropriate to their status, as shown above.

1.20.3 The Centre must submit to CIE copies of all its planned uses of the CIE Identity and must wait for CIE’s approval before using the material or documentation.

1.20.4 A Centre must always:

1.20.4.1 reproduce the CIE Identity in exactly the format provided by CIE

1.20.4.2 use the CIE Identity in conjunction with its own logo and name

1.20.4.3 place the CIE Identity at the bottom of any stationery including letterheads and business cards.

1.20.5 A Centre must:

1.20.5.1 not provide the CIE Identity or CIE Marks for use by any organisations other than registered Centres

1.20.5.2 not use the CIE Identity in the main heading (top) of any document; where the CIE Identity is used on a document, the CIE Identity should be smaller and less prominent (lower) than that of the logo and name of the Centre itself and of any associated logo

1.20.5.3 not split the CIE Identity and use its parts separately

1.20.5.4 not use the CIE Identity or the CIE Marks in certification or financial documentation issued by the Centre, e.g. attendance certificates, receipts or

invoices

1.20.5.5 not use the CIE Identity or the CIE Marks as part of the Centre’s email address or as part of the domain name in the Centre’s web address.

1.20.6 A Centre may:

1.20.6.1 reproduce the CIE Identity in full colour or as a single colour, subject to sections 1.19 and 1.20

1.20.6.2 use the CIE Identity in printed leaflets and brochures, advertisements, posters, etc., subject to the instructions contained in sections 1.19 and 1.20

1.20.6.3 communicate its Centre status in the text of information or publicity material.

The overall size of the CIE Identity in any documentation must be less than the size of the logo and the name of the Centre itself.

1.20.7 The size of the CIE Identity must be no more than 75 per cent of the size of the logo of the institution and it must also be less prominent.

1.20.8 The CIE Identity and CIE Marks arrangements do not transfer any copyright from CIE to the Centre.

1.20.9 Misuse of the CIE Identity may result in the withdrawal of Centre status.

1.20.10 Permission to use the CIE Identity is dependent upon the Centre continuing to hold CIE Centre status. If Centre status is withdrawn, the use of the CIE Identity must stop immediately.

1.20.11 The Centre must not reproduce CIE certificates in any form whatsoever.

1.21 Approval

1.21.1 CIE must approve in writing all uses of the CIE Identity. Centres should contact CIE Customer Services in the first instance.

1.21.2 The Centre must submit to CIE Customer Services a proof copy of all publications using the CIE corporate identity before they are printed, displayed or distributed.




1.21.3 The Centre can submit proofs to CIE Customer Services either in electronic format by email to: [email protected] or by hard copy to: 1 Hills Road, Cambridge, CB1 2EU, UK.

1.21.4 CIE is the sole interpreter of the conditions for use of the CIE Identity and CIE Marks. CIE will exclusively make all decisions regarding interpretation of the conditions of use for the CIE Identity and CIE Marks.

1.21.5 CIE investigates all reports of unauthorised or improper use of the CIE Identity. We always insist that publications that do not comply with these guidelines are withdrawn immediately. This can involve the Centre in considerable additional expense, so it is particularly important that all Centres comply with the Conditions of Use.

1.22 Marketing support

1.22.1 CIE issues each Centre with a marketing resource CD-ROM when it is registered as a Cambridge International Centre. Attached Centres may receive marketing support from their Parent Organisation.

1.22.2 The marketing resource CD-ROM contains sets of images and texts designed specifically to support the marketing of CIE assessments, together with electronic versions of the CIE Identity.

1.23 Access to assessments – equal opportunities

1.23.1 CIE is committed to providing equality of opportunity for candidates, in accordance with current UK legislation in relation to gender, ethnic origin, religion, age or disability.

1.23.2 There is a policy of open access for all CIE qualifications. The principle of open access is promoted in all areas of CIE assessment activity, which aim to overcome any potential inequality in relation to gender, ethnic origin, religion, age or disability in:

1.23.2.1 the assessment process

1.23.2.2 the arrangements made for candidates with access arrangements to facilitate

their access to CIE qualifications

1.23.2.3 the interpretation of available data relating to the implementation of policies and procedures of the scheme

1.23.2.4 the monitoring of all publications produced for CIE qualifications.

1.24 Access and private candidates

1.24.1 Specific regulations govern the access of private candidates to CIE assessments – see section 2.1.2.

1.25 Access and Professional Qualifications

1.25.1 CIE Professional Qualifications are based on statements of competence. Candidates must meet all of these objectives and must not omit any of them in any circumstances.

1.25.2 Candidates may use mechanical, electronic and other aids in order to demonstrate competence, as long as these aids will not prevent CIE properly assessing a candidate’s performance and are feasible to use in the Centre.

1.26 Science accommodation and equipment

1.26.1 The effective delivery of a Science curriculum requires an emphasis on practical work, whatever the level and regardless of whether the Centre is to offer the practical, alternative to practical or coursework component of an examination.

1.26.2 A Centre must satisfy CIE that it is adequately equipped to teach the practical aspects of a subject as set out in the relevant syllabus, and that it can comply with any requirements for practical assessment, before it can enter candidates for an examination in that syllabus.

1.26.3 If CIE is not satisfied that the Centre is adequately equipped, for whatever reason, CIE may prevent the Centre offering the relevant CIE Science syllabus examinations because they are unable to prepare candidates properly.


1.26.4 Individual syllabuses may contain a list of recommended laboratory equipment or apparatus.

1.26.5 Centres can obtain the CIE publication Planning Science in Secondary Schools from the CIE Publications Department.

1.26.6 CIE has produced Planning Science in Secondary Schools to provide guidance for Heads of Centres, Parent Organisations and Science specialists who are involved in the design and commissioning of new, or refurbishing existing, Science accommodation and equipment. It contains sections on: planning the accommodation; the laboratory; the preparation room and apparatus and resources (by subject and level).


University of Cambridge International Examinations22 | Part 2: Assessment entries: for General Qualifications

Part 2: Assessment entries: for General Qualifications

2.1 Candidates

2.1.1 Eligibility

(a) CIE places no age restrictions on entering for assessments.

(b) Each candidate must be entered by a Centre.

(c) Candidates may not enter for the same syllabus code at two different Centres in the same examination session.

(d) All candidates must meet the full requirements of the assessments for which they are entered. The Centre must authenticate and, where appropriate, mark and moderate their coursework.

(e) A Centre must authenticate and, where appropriate, mark and moderate all work submitted for assessment.

2.1.2 Private candidates

Assessments are primarily designed for candidates who are registered on courses of study at schools and colleges that are registered as Centres with CIE. However, some candidates who do not attend CIE Centres may wish to enter for assessments. Such individuals are referred to as private candidates.

(a) Private candidates must be able to meet the full requirements of any assessment for which they are entered. In particular, where an assessment involves coursework, the Centre through which entry has been made must both authenticate and mark the coursework before submitting it.

(b) Entry for assessments can only be made through a Centre. It is the responsibility of private candidates to make their own arrangements with a Centre.

(c) It is the responsibility of the Centre to pay fees to CIE for any private candidates accepted by the Centre. The Centre may require a private candidate to reimburse the entry fee and also to pay a further fee to cover the cost of supervision and the marking of any coursework or other internally-assessed work by the staff of the Centre.

(d) Individuals entered as private candidates are identified separately in summaries of the Centre’s results. The Centre name will not appear on the certificates issued to private candidates.

2.1.3 Transferred candidates

Candidates may only transfer to a Centre registered with CIE.

(a) A candidate who, after final entries are made, transfers to another CIE Centre becomes the responsibility of the receiving Centre. The receiving Centre will allocate its own number to the candidate. Where necessary, the originating and the receiving Centre must make arrangements for the completion of any internal assessment. The receiving Centre must submit marks for internally-assessed work.

(b) The original Centre and the receiving Centre must both complete a transfer candidate form. (A copy of each of these forms is in the Administrative Guide for Centres). When CIE has received both of these forms it will move the entry from the original Centre to the receiving Centre. The original Centre will receive a refund of the candidate’s fees and CIE will issue a new invoice for the candidate to the receiving Centre. CIE will not charge late entry fees to Centres receiving a transferred candidate.

(c) CIE is unable to accept a request for transfer received at CIE less than 10 days before the date of the first examination to be taken by the transfer candidate.

(d) CIE is unable to accept requests for partial transfers (i.e. taking just one component/module of an assessment at another Centre).

2.1.4 Correspondence about candidates

Only the Head of Centre or their deputy responsible for the candidate’s entry may correspond with CIE on any aspect of a candidate’s assessment. Only in exceptional circumstances will CIE, at its discretion, correspond directly with candidates or their parents.

2.1.5 Disqualification of candidates

If malpractice by a candidate has been confirmed, that candidate may be disqualified from at least the subject concerned (see Part 7).

University of Cambridge International ExaminationsPart 2: Assessment entries: for General Qualifications | 23

2.2 Entries

2.2.1 Estimated entry information

(a) Centres should provide CIE with estimated entry information. Centres that do not submit estimated entries may not have the necessary material to carry out assessments at the specified time.

CIE will use estimated entry information collected from Centres to:

aid the planning of the assessments•

supply Centres with early materials for oral and • practical assessments

supply Centres with final entry documents•

plan the recruitment of examiners•

print the required quantities of question papers.•

Materials for oral and practical assessments are despatched on the basis of estimated entries. Centres that do not submit estimated entries may not have the necessary material to carry out assessments at the specified time.

(b) Centres that are not able to provide estimated entry information by the required date must complete the form giving the total number of candidates studying for the particular subject.

(c) Deadlines for submission of estimated entry information are:

(i) General Qualifications: 15 October for all examination sessions

(ii) Professional Qualification question paper modules: 30 November for the May session; 30 April for the October session.

(d) CIE do not charge a fee for estimated entries.

2.2.2 Final entries

(a) CIE will provide Centres with materials for submitting final entries for each examination session, based on the estimated entry information supplied to CIE (see 2.2.1). Centres registered with the CIE secure website will receive their entry materials via this website.

(b) It is the responsibility of the Head of Centre to ensure that accurate and complete final entry data is submitted to CIE. Centres must submit all entry amendments to CIE by the given deadline, to avoid jeopardising the Centre’s candidate entries.

(c) Centres must ensure that CIE receives all entries by the published deadline. Entries received after this date will be subject to late entry fees. CIE will accept late entries and changes to entry until the following dates:

17 April for June examinations•


Entry closing dates:

QualificationClosing date for

May sessionClosing date for

June sessionClosing date

for October session

Closing datefor November

session

AICE (Half–Credit)GCE A LevelGCE AS LevelGCE O LevelIGCSE

21 February

16 August for first time entries

21 September for retake entries

HIGCSE 12 June

Checkpoint 21 February 16 August

Cambridge International Primary Achievement Tests

21 February 16 August

Cambridge International Diplomas in Business

21 February 11 August



31 July for October HIGCSE examinations•

30 September for November examinations.•

CIE will not accept further entries or changes to entry after these dates.

(d) Centres cannot enter candidates for certain combinations of assessments where the certification titles are the same or where the syllabuses share common assessments (see section 2.1.1 (c)).

(e) Centres must submit entry files per session for the following groups of general qualifications. Centres must combine in one entry file all qualifications for which they plan to make entries.

June/November IGCSE, GCE O Level, GCE AS & A Level, AICE (Half Credit), ICE, AICE Diploma

June/November Cambridge International Primary Programme

October HIGCSE

May/October Checkpoint

2.2.3 Unique candidate identifiers (UCI) for Diploma Qualification modules

The Centre must allocate a UCI for the first module entry for a candidate in a given qualification. The format for the generation of the UCI is provided in the Cambridge International Diplomas Administrative Guide. The Centre must use this UCI for all subsequent module entries for the candidate in question.

2.2.4 Candidate numbering

The Centre must assign one four-digit number to every candidate entering for examinations in each session. Centres must not assign the same candidate number to more than one candidate in the same examination session.

2.2.5 Statements of entry

CIE will issue statements of entry to Centres, showing the details of each candidate’s entry. Centres must give candidates the opportunity to check the personal details recorded on statements. Statements of entry will form the Centre’s record of entries, both before and during the assessment. Centres must forward statements of entry to private candidates so that they can check their accuracy.

Statements of entry can also be printed from CAMEO.

2.2.6 Online entries

Centres that have applied to CIE for access will be able to view the entries for their Centre on the CIE website https://direct.cie.org.uk. This is a secure website and Centres will be able to view only their own entries.

2.3 Forecast grades

Centres should submit forecast grades for candidates for General Qualifications. Centres can use CAMEO to submit electronic files (see section 1.11 of the Introduction). Centres must submit electronic files of forecast grades to CIE via the CIE Direct website by the dates shown below. Alternatively, Centres can use the Forecast Grade Form (F1). Centres should return the form F1 to CIE in the envelope provided for this purpose by the dates shown below.

Centres should submit forecast grades for candidates for Cambridge International Diploma timetabled modules using the Forecast Grade Forms (F1) provided. Centres must submit these by the dates shown below.

Submission of forecast grades, although not compulsory, provides important information to CIE for the following:

checking disparities between actual grades and • forecast grades before results are issued

a candidate’s script being lost or damaged•

cases of special consideration.•

A forecast grade must be a realistic prediction of what the candidate is expected to achieve in the examination. It is not intended to be the teacher’s


assessment of the quality of the candidate’s work during the course, or of the effort that the candidate has made. In the case of an assessment that the candidate has already partly completed (e.g. an A Level subject in which the candidate has already achieved a contributory AS Level result), the forecast grade should relate to the overall qualification, including the part already assessed.

CIE will include candidate details for all entries received at CIE by 10 April for the June session and 21 September for the November session in the despatch of the pre-printed forecast grade forms. If Centres made a late entry or entry amendment after these dates, they should add the candidate details to the pre-printed Forecast Grade Form (F1). If there is not sufficient space on the pre-printed F1, Centres should use the supplementary F1 Form to record the forecast grade of any additional candidate(s). (A copy of this form is in the Administrative Guide for Centres.)

Centres must also use a supplementary F1 Form where a late entry or an entry amendment results in a Centre having an entry for a syllabus component for which they have not previously had an entry. In such a case, Centres would not have a pre-printed Forecast Grade Form (F1).

2.4 Entry fees, late entries and entry amendments

2.4.1 General Qualifications

(a) CIE will charge an entry fee per syllabus per candidate. For GCE assessments CIE will also charge a candidate fee. Parent Organisations may charge an additional local fee if appropriate.

(b) CIE will charge late entry fees for any entries received after the final entry closing date. CIE will also charge late entry fees for changes to syllabus entries and for entry options received after the entry closing date.

(c) CIE will accept re-take entries for the November examination session (which are dependent on June session results) until 21 September without charging a late entry fee. After this date CIE will apply late entry fees as stated. Details of the rates and methods of payment are included in the Examination Fees booklet, issued annually. Following the receipt of assessment entries or other services which attract fees, CIE will send Centres an invoice for the outstanding balance on their accounts.


General qualifications entry dates:

June Session October Session November Session

Final entry closing date 21 February 12 June16 August

(21 September for re-take entries)

First level late entry fee applies for late entries and option amendments

22 February – 20 March 13 June – 10 July17 August – 6 September for

first-time entries

Second level late entry fee applies for late entries and option amendments

21 March – 3 April 11 July – 24 July

Third level late entry fee applies for late entries and option amendments

4 April – 17 April 25 July – 31 July

7 September – 30 September for first-time entries

22 September – 30 September for re-take entries

Dates for submission of forecast grades:

May/June examination session 30 April for AICE (Half-Credit), GCE A, AS, O Levels and IGCSE, CID

October examination session 15 October for HIGCSE

October/November examination session 30 September for CID

November examination session 31 October for AICE (Half-Credit), GCE A, AS, O Levels and IGCSE



(d) Although entries for the Cambridge International Primary Achievement Tests do not attract an entry fee, Centres will be liable for late entry fees on any entries received after the advertised entry closing date.

CIE will not accept any entries or changes to entries after 17 April (for June session), 31 July (for October session) or 30 September (for November session).

2.4.2 Timetabled question paper modules for the Cambridge International Diploma in Business

(a) CIE will charge an entry fee per module per candidate. Parent Organisations may charge an additional local fee, if appropriate. Details of the CIE rates and methods of payment are included in the Examination Fees booklet, issued annually. Following the receipt of assessment entries or other services which attract fees, CIE will send Centres an invoice for the outstanding balance on their accounts.

(b) CIE will charge fees for late entries and module entry amendments as outlined below. Details of the rates and methods of payment are included in the Examination Fees booklet, issued annually. Following the receipt of module entries or other services which attract fees, CIE will send Centres an invoice for the outstanding balance on their accounts.

2.5 Refund of Fees

Refund of entry fees will only be made if CIE is notified of the withdrawal of a candidate before the published entry closing date.

CIE will consider requests after the published entry closing date, in writing from Centres, for refunds of entry fees on medical grounds. A statement from a medical practitioner must accompany the application, confirming that the candidate was unable to sit the examination(s). Centres should send applications to Customer Services.

Refunds will not be issued until after the end of the examination session.

CIE will only refund entry fees in exceptional circumstances.

2.6 Re-taking examinations

2.6.1 General Qualifications

Candidates may take an assessment on more than one occasion. When re-taking an assessment, the candidate must sit all the written examination papers relevant to the entry option.

2.6.1.1 Coursework components

The following options are available for assessments with coursework components.

(a) A Centre may request CIE to carry forward a candidate’s coursework mark to the new session

Professional qualifications entry dates:

May Session October Session

Final entry closing date 21 February 10 August

First level late entry fee applies for late entry and module entry amendments

22 February – 6 March 11 August – 26 August

Second level late entry fee applies for late entry and module entry amendments

7 March – 3 April 27 August – 18 September

Third level late entry fee applies for late entry and module entry amendments

4 April onwards 19 September onwards


only if the entry instructions specify that this can be done. This option is available only once within 13 months of the assessment session for which the coursework was originally submitted. Centres can use this option on only one occasion for IGCSE and GCE O Level. For GCE AS and A Level carry forward options, please refer to Part 2.7 of this Handbook.

(b) A candidate re-taking an assessment may choose one of the following options for the submission of coursework:

submit entirely new coursework•

submit coursework partially changed or • augmented

submit unchanged coursework, as prepared for • a previous assessment.

However, the candidate must not submit work unchanged if the mark may be carried forward (see section (a) above).

Please note the distinction between the carrying forward of a coursework mark, which only CIE may undertake, and the re-submission of coursework by the candidate. For each of the alternatives in section (b) above, the Centre must ensure that the candidate’s complete coursework (both the original and any additional work) is assessed alongside that of other candidates entered for the assessment and that it is available for moderation. Whichever option is chosen, the coursework must meet the particular requirements of the syllabus in force at the time of retaking the assessment.

2.6.2 Professional Qualifications timetabled question paper modules

Candidates who fail a specific module are free to re-take the module assessment as many times as they wish. When re-taking an assessment, the candidate must sit all the assessment papers relevant to the module and must pay the relevant module entry fee.

Candidates who have achieved a pass grade or higher in a module may not re-take the module to improve their grade.

2.7 Staged assessment

The curriculum to be studied for most Advanced (A) Level syllabuses includes the curriculum to be covered for an Advanced Subsidiary (AS) Level in the same subject. The AS Level syllabus covers about half of the material of the A Level syllabus. The part of the A Level syllabus which is not included in the AS Level syllabus is sometimes referred to as the ‘A2’ syllabus because it is usually covered in the second year of a two-year A Level course.

Candidates may either take an AS Level examination in a subject where it is available as an end in itself or as an intermediate examination halfway to A Level. It is not compulsory to take the AS Level examination prior to taking the A Level in any particular subject.

‘A2’ does not exist as a qualification. Candidates who have studied the A2 part of an A Level syllabus must enter for the full A Level. However, if they have already taken the AS Level papers in a previous session they need not take them again but may carry forward their result, subject to the arrangements described below.

Subject to the requirements of the particular A Level syllabus, candidates may use an award in an AS Level syllabus in June 2009 towards the award of an A Level in the same subject in November 2009 and/or June 2010. Similarly, candidates may use an award in an AS Level syllabus in November 2009 towards the award of an A Level in the same subject in June 2010 and/or November 2010. Candidates may not use AS awards obtained prior to the mentioned examination sessions towards the award of an A Level in June 2010 and/or November 2010.

Centres entering candidates for A Level in these subjects in June 2010 and/or November 2010 are required to state, by means of an entry option, for each candidate for each syllabus, whether:

(a) the candidate is taking all the required components for the A Level award concurrently and no previous AS Level results are to be considered

(b) the candidate is taking all the required components for the A Level award concurrently but the candidate has also taken the AS Level in the same subject within the previous 13 months. AS Level awards obtained more than 13 months previously may not be counted towards the award of an A Level in June 2010. In this case, CIE will then count the best possible A Level result that the candidate can obtain



by considering all the valid combinations of AS level results and the A2 taken in the current session

(c) the candidate is taking only the A2 components of the A Level in the current session and the AS Level award was obtained in the same subject within the previous 13 months. AS Level awards obtained more than 13 months previously may not be counted towards the award of an A Level in June 2010.

It is not possible to carry forward an AS Level award to sessions more than 13 months later, or to carry forward a result in an individual component unless it constitutes a full AS Level award.

Centres that would like CIE to consider candidates’ AS Level results from previous sessions must include for each candidate, details of the session, the Centre number and the candidate number that they were entered under at the time of the AS award.

GCE AS & A Level staged assessments will not be available in languages other than English, or in certain subjects that do not have an AS Level syllabus.

The instructions and regulations detailed above also apply to Professional Qualification timetabled question paper modules.


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3.1 Preparation for the examination

3.1.1 Receipt of question papers and examination materials

CIE will send question paper packets and examination material to the Head of Centre in advance of the examination period. Centres must check the unopened packets carefully upon receipt and must immediately notify CIE of any problems, for example:

(a) if there are any discrepancies between the material received and the despatch note

(b) if the material received does not appear to meet the Centre’s requirements

(c) if the material has been significantly damaged in transit

(d) if there appears to have been any possible breach of security while the material was in transit

(e) if the seal of the question paper envelope is not intact or if there is any indication that someone may have tampered with it

(f) if there seems to have been a delay in the delivery of the question papers, (e.g. materials held up in transit).

Centres are advised to check question paper packets against the examination timetable and to arrange them in timetable order. This will reduce the possibility of opening a packet of question papers at the wrong time.

3.1.2 Security of question papers and examination materials

(a) It is the Centre’s responsibility to ensure the ongoing security of the question papers and to take all preventative measures necessary to comply with CIE regulations.

(b) Centres must store their unopened question papers in a place of high security, ideally a strong safe. If a safe is not available or is of insufficient capacity, a non-portable, lockable, reinforced steel or metal cabinet or other similar container must be used. Centres must keep the safe or container in a securely locked room with access and key-holding restricted to only two or three authorised persons. The room should preferably be windowless and

on an upper floor. Where windows are not secure, whether internal or external, the Centre must fit them with an effective security device such as metal bars or an alarm system. Centres must hold the keys to both the metal container and the secure room in a secure place.

(c) Centres must inform CIE immediately if the security of the question papers or confidential instructions or materials is put at risk by fire, theft, loss, damage, unauthorised disclosure or any other circumstances.

(d) Centres must not open packets of question papers and other examination materials until the time appointed for the examination concerned, except in circumstances where:

(i) CIE requires Centres to open confidential material such as confidential instructions for practical examinations in advance of the examination. Centres must take strict precautions to safeguard the confidential instructions after opening them; they must not remove them from the Centre and when not using them must keep them in the secure conditions outlined in 3.1.2 (b). It is the responsibility of the Head of Centre to ensure that these materials remain confidential and that no information about these materials reaches candidates, either directly or indirectly. Under no circumstances should Centres discuss the confidential instructions with any other Centre. Centres should refer any enquiries relating to the confidential instructions to CIE or, in the case of local arrangements, the Parent Organisation. Under no circumstances should Centres open any question paper packets before the examination. There are no exceptions. (See also 3.4.2.)

(ii) Centres may open certain literature question paper packets for plain text or open book examinations one hour in advance of the examination, in order to check the page references to specific editions of the texts. The head of department or appropriate teacher must open and check them in the presence of the Head of Centre or their deputy.

(iii) Confidential material is pre-recorded on CDs or other media. The Centre must make arrangements, prior to the examination, to test such material according to the instructions issued by CIE. The Centre must immediately notify CIE of any deficiencies or other problems. (See also 3.4.7.)

Part 3A: Conduct of examinations – General Qualifications and Cambridge International Diploma question paper modules

University of Cambridge International Examinations30 | Part 3A: Conduct of examinations – General Qualifications and Cambridge International Diploma question paper modules

(e) Centres must store examination stationery and materials securely at all times so that no unauthorised person has access to them. Any stationary that CIE provides must be used in CIE’s examinations only.

(f) Centres should despatch all answer scripts without delay after an examination, on the same day wherever possible and by the most expedient method. If the Centre has to retain answer scripts overnight they must be kept under secure conditions. (See also 3.6.2.)

(g) If a candidate enters for CIE examinations at a Centre where a relative is employed, the Head of Centre must ensure that during the examination session the candidate’s relative does not have unaccompanied access to examination materials, either before the examination (e.g. question papers), or after the examination (e.g. answer scripts). If the relative in question is acting as the Centre’s Examinations Officer, the Centre must make appropriate arrangements to ensure that another person is present for all the examination administration relating to the candidate’s examinations. A member of Centre staff other than the candidate’s relative must authorise any documentation submitted to CIE for the examinations, (e.g. access arrangements forms). This includes medical certificates submitted for access arrangements and special consideration. (See also 3.1.4 (a) and 6.21.)

3.1.3 Accommodation

3.1.3.1 Examination venue

All candidates must sit the examination at the Centre unless the Centre has obtained prior permission from CIE for candidates to take the examination elsewhere.

3.1.3.2 Examination room

All examination rooms must provide candidates with appropriate conditions. Centres must pay due attention to such matters as access, heating, ventilation, lighting and the level of extraneous noise.

Centres must conduct practical examinations under conditions that will provide all candidates with the opportunity to complete their tasks and to display

their true level of attainment in the subject concerned. (See 3.4.1.3 for instructions on accommodating large numbers of candidates for practical examinations.)

Centres must conduct Art and Design practical examinations, at any level, in line with written examinations. Centres must not allow any music or background noise during these examinations.

3.1.3.3 Display material

Under no circumstances should any display material which might be helpful to the candidates (e.g. maps, diagrams, wall charts) be visible in the examination room. Centres must take particular care with examinations that are held in laboratories or libraries.

3.1.3.4 Clock

A reliable clock or some other mechanism for displaying the time must be visible to all candidates in the examination room.

3.1.3.5 Notice to candidates and display of information

Centres must display the CIE poster ‘Notice to Candidates’ both inside and outside the examination room.

Centres must display so that they are clearly visible to all candidates:

the Centre number•

the start and finish times of each examination.•

(A copy of the CIE Notice to Candidates is provided in this Handbook and in the Administrative Guide for Centres.)

3.1.3.6 Seating arrangements

The seating arrangements must prevent candidates from overlooking the work of others, intentionally or otherwise. The minimum distance in all directions from the centre of one candidates’ chair to the centre of another’s must be 1.25 metres.


For multiple-choice papers, Centres must place candidates so that the distance between the centres of their chairs is extended to 3 metres.

Wherever possible, for written examinations:

(a) all candidates must face in the same direction

(b) each candidate must have a separate desk or table of sufficient size to accommodate question papers, maps, equipment and materials for practical examinations and answer booklets/paper

(c) if candidates are not working at individual desks, they must be sufficiently far apart that other candidates cannot see their work or make contact with them

(d) candidates who are working on a drawing board set on an easel or another non-horizontal surface should, wherever possible, sit in an inward-facing circle or in some similar pattern

(e) where candidates sit their examination in a language laboratory, the Centre must accommodate them in screened booths

(f) where candidates sit their examinations in a computer laboratory, the minimum distance between two monitors should be 1.25 metres (centre to centre). If a Centre cannot meet this requirement, candidates must sit at alternate monitors or in screened booths

(g) candidates must sit in candidate number order, with candidate numbers (index numbers) labelled on each desk.

Centres may hold other examinations in the examination room at the same time, provided that no disturbance is caused.

Any candidate suffering from an infectious or contagious disease must take the examination in a separate room where the Centre can apply all the examination regulations. On completion of the examination the Centre must photocopy the candidate’s script, seal the original in plastic, and place a note on the photocopy to explain the situation. The Centre must pack the script separately from other scripts prior to posting with the main despatch of scripts. The Centre should inform CIE in writing.

3.1.4 Invigilation arrangements

(a) The invigilator is the person in the examination room responsible for the conduct of a particular examination session.

(b) The Head of Centre must ensure that suitably qualified and experienced adults carry out invigilation. Whilst the Head of Centre has discretion to decide who is suitably qualified and experienced, any relative of a candidate in the examination room is specifically not eligible to serve as the sole invigilator. The Head of Centre must ensure that invigilators are fully briefed and trained prior to carrying out the task of invigilation.

(c) Invigilators must give their whole attention to the proper conduct of the examination and must not perform any additional task (e.g. marking) in the examination room. Invigilators must be present, mobile and attentive throughout the examination.

(d) (i) At least one invigilator must be present for every 30 candidates (but see 3.4.1.4 (c) (iv)). The Centre must make arrangements such that the invigilator can observe each candidate in the examination room at all times.

(ii) When only one invigilator is present, he/she must be able to summon assistance easily, without leaving the examination room and without disturbing the candidates. A change of invigilators during an examination is allowed, provided that the number of invigilators present in the room does not fall below the number prescribed.

(iii) A teacher who has prepared the candidates for the subject under examination must not be the sole invigilator at any time during an examination in that subject.

(iv) For practical tests there must be one invigilator for every 15 candidates. In these examinations it is essential that a teacher of the subject should also be present in the examination room at the start of the test, and as necessary thereafter, to deal with technical difficulties that may arise, including matters of safety, and to assist with the invigilation in general. (See also 3.4.5.)

(v) For listening tests a member of staff who speaks the language of the listening test should ideally be present to deal with any technical difficulties that may arise. If this person is the teacher who prepared the candidates for the subject under




examination, they must not be the sole invigilator (see 3.1.4 (d) (iii)).

(vi) In examinations in which questions or passages must be read to candidates it is essential that an invigilator is present in addition to the reader.

(e) A copy of this Handbook must be available to the invigilators in each examination room. Invigilators must be familiar with the regulations contained in Part 3 of the Handbook and the contents of the Notice to Candidates, as well as any specific regulations relating to the subjects being examined. The Handbook for Centres is available for download in PDF format from CIE Direct. Centres may wish to print additional copies of certain relevant sections of the Handbook for use by their invigilators.

(f) A checklist for invigilators is in both this Handbook and in the Administrative Guide for Centres. It is intended only as a reminder and invigilators must use it in conjunction with the regulations contained in this Handbook.

(g) Further guidance for invigilation of Science practical examinations is in this Handbook. For IGCSE ICT practical tests see the ‘Checklist for Invigilators’; for multiple choice papers see a ‘Brief Guide to invigilating IGCSE ICT and AS & A Level Applied ICT Practical Tests’. These guidance notes are intended for use as reminders for invigilators who must only use them in conjunction with the regulations contained in this Handbook.

(h) Candidates must be kept under Full Centre Supervision at the KEY TIME for an examination, as specified for the applicable morning or afternoon examination session on the FINAL examination timetable.

Candidates may be in the examination room, doing their examination, under the supervision of invigilators.

Or, if the KEY TIME is before the start of the examination, they must be supervised by teachers or invigilators from the KEY TIME until the start of the examination. They can have access to their books and notes, and they can talk to each other. However, they must not have any access to telephones, mobile phones, the Internet, or any means of external communication; and they must not be allowed any communication with anyone not under Full Centre Supervision.

Or, if they have finished their examination, they may be permitted to leave the examination room provided that they are supervised by teachers or invigilators continuously from the time they leave until the KEY TIME. Once outside the exam room, they can have access to their books and notes, and they can talk to each other (provided that they do not cause any disturbance to candidates who are still doing an examination). However, they must not have any access to telephones, mobile phones, the Internet, or any means of external communication; and they must not be allowed any communication with anyone not under Full Centre Supervision.

For candidates under Full Centre Supervision, at least one invigilator must be present for every 30 candidates.

(i) Centres must keep signed records of the invigilation arrangements for each examination session. Centres must also keep signed records of the supervision arrangements for candidates under Full Centre Supervision, in order to comply with the Regulations regarding the KEY TIME. CIE may require these records at any time up to the publication of results and issue of certificates and/or resolution of any maladministration or malpractice investigation.

3.1.5 Declaration of interest

(a) If a member of staff at a Centre has an interest in a person taking a CIE assessment or if they are taking a CIE assessment themselves they must complete the Declaration of Interest Form (see below). They must hand the form to the Head of Centre who will send a copy of the form to CIE for the attention of the Regulations Team. Centres must store the original form for a period of one year and it must be available for inspection by CIE at any time.

(b) If the Head of Centre has an interest they must complete the Declaration of Interest Form (see below). They must send the form to CIE for the attention of the Regulations Team.

(c) For the purpose of the declaration, ‘interest in a person’ applies to:

a close relative•

children•

grandchildren•



Declaration of interest in a person taking a CIE examination

If you have an interest in a person taking a CIE examination, or if you are taking a CIE examination yourself, you must complete this form. You should complete this form as soon as you know that the person concerned will be, or has been, entered for a CIE examination.

For the purpose of the declaration, you have an ‘interest’ in a person if that person is: a close relative or another person whose relationship to you could compromise the integrity of CIE’s examinations if you did not disclose that relationship.

After completing this form please pass it to your Head of Centre.

Centre and session detailsCentre number

Centrename

Month of examination Year

Declarer’s details

Name

Position held at Centre (e.g. teacher)

Candidate’s detailsCandidate number

Candidatename

Declarer’s relationship to candidate(e.g. mother)

Subjects the candidate is takingSyllabus code Syllabus title

Declarer’s signature Date

Head of Centre’s signature Date

Send a copy of this form to CIE for the attention of the Regulations Team. Store the original form for a period of 1 year – it must be available for inspection by CIE at any time. If you have any queries regarding this procedure, please contact CIE Customer Services.



cousins•

nieces•

nephews•

any person whose relationship to you could • compromise the integrity of the Centre or of CIE’s assessments

any person whose relationship to you could • compromise your integrity or good name, as a Centre employee or otherwise, if you did not disclose the relationship.

(d) Please note that you should complete the Declaration of Interest Form as soon as you know that the person concerned will be, or has been, entered for a CIE examination.

(e) If you have any queries about the procedure, please contact CIE.

3.2 At the beginning of the examination

Centres must ensure that candidates take CIE’s IGCSE, GCE O Level, GCE AS Level and GCE A Level examinations in the examination session indicated on the FINAL timetable. Centres are permitted to start the examinations at any time within the session, but must ensure that the KEY TIME shown on the timetable is observed.

All candidates entered for examinations in a session must be under Full Centre Supervision at the KEY TIME. If Centres timetable examinations outside of the KEY TIME they must keep candidates under Full Centre Supervision from the KEY TIME until the examination starts; or if they have already completed the examination, they must be kept under Full Centre Supervision until the KEY TIME.

For HIGCSE examinations, Centres must ensure that candidates take examinations in the examination session indicated on the FINAL timetable. Centres must start and complete the examinations within the times indicated for the session. Centres should treat the time they start the actual examination as the KEY TIME for the purposes of compliance with CIE regulations.

Centres unable to meet this requirement must apply to CIE for a timetable deviation (see Part 5).

Centres are responsible for informing candidates of examination times.

CIE reserves the right to visit Centres during the period of examinations to inspect the arrangements made for the security of confidential examination material and for the conduct of the examinations (see sections 1.2 to 1.8 of this Handbook).

3.2.1 Identification of candidates

The invigilators must be satisfied about the identity of every candidate attending each examination session. The Head of Centre must ensure that arrangements are in place to enable invigilators to carry out thorough checks on the identity of all candidates.

The Centre must require private candidates who are not known to the Centre to present documentary evidence (e.g. an ID photo-card or a passport), and check each time they attend an examination session that they are the same person who was entered for the examination.

Only those people authorised by the Head of Centre are allowed in the examination room.

3.2.2 Candidate numbers

The Centre must inform all candidates of their candidate numbers in advance of the examination.

3.2.3 Attendance registers

Before the examination CIE will send attendance registers and instructions for their use to Centres. Centres must complete these documents, for recording the presence of candidates, in accordance with the instructions printed on them.

Attendance registers are printed in date and session order for all timetabled components set by CIE. For components for which no specific date or session is allocated, the attendance registers are printed at the beginning of each Centre’s set of attendance registers. Centres must check that they have received attendance registers for each component being taken at the Centre and must report any deficiencies immediately to CIE Customer Services.

Candidates’ names are printed on the attendance



registers exactly as they will appear on the statements of results and on certificates. Centres must report any errors in the names at once using a Candidate Entry Amendment Form. If a candidate is not shown on the attendance register, the Centre must enter them on the attendance register and make a formal entry to CIE, if this has not already been done.

If a candidate is added to the attendance register and an examination script is submitted to CIE then a syllabus entry fee, plus appropriate late entre fees, will be charged.

CIE will include candidate details for all entries received at CIE by the time that attendance registers are printed in the despatch of pre-printed attendance registers. If a Centre makes a late entry or entry amendment after this time, they must add the candidate details, including candidate name and candidate number, to the pre-printed attendance register.

If there is not sufficient space on the pre-printed attendance registers, the Centre must use the supplementary attendance register to record the attendance of any additional candidate(s). (A copy of this form is in the Administrative Guide for Centres.)

Centres should also use a supplementary attendance register in cases where late entry or late entry amendments have been made for examinations in which Centres did not previously have any candidates. In these instances CIE will not have produced a pre-printed attendance register.

If a candidate has been entered but is not present for the examination, he/she must be marked as absent on the attendance register.

The Centre must check and sign the attendance register at the end of the examination.

3.2.4 Seating plan

Centres must keep signed records of the seating arrangements for each examination session. It must be possible to generate a seating plan from this record. CIE may require the seating plan at any time up to the issue of certificates.

3.2.5 Unauthorised materials

Candidates may take into the examination room only those articles, instruments or materials which are expressly permitted in the rubric of a question paper, stationery list or in the syllabus booklet for the subject being examined.

Possession of unauthorised material by a candidate during the examination is a serious breach and may result in forfeiture of examination grades. Centres must report all instances to CIE.Candidates must leave unauthorised materials either outside the examination room or with the invigilator and must switch them off at all times, where applicable. Unauthorised materials include calculator cases, instruction leaflets, bags, non-transparent pencil cases, personal TVs, computers of any sort, electronic or radio communication or recording devices, mobile telephones, cameras, Bluetooth headsets or portable music players (this is a non-exhaustive list).

If candidates have taken unauthorised materials into the examination room, the invigilator must place such materials out of reach of the candidates before the examination commences. (See 3.2.7 (c).)The use of map stencils is forbidden in geography papers. (See 3.3.3 for regulations for the use of calculators, 3.3.4 for the use of mathematical tables and 3.3.5 for the use of dictionaries.)

3.2.6 Stationery, materials and other equipment

Prior to each examination session, CIE will provide Centres with an additional materials booklet, which specifies all required materials for each examination and whether CIE or the Centre will provide them.

The Centre must provide writing paper/answer booklets, A2 drawing paper, A3 drawing paper, plain paper, music paper, accounting paper and tracing paper for CIE examinations. Writing paper must be lined and have ruled margins. Candidates should normally write on both sides of the paper, assuming that the paper is sufficiently opaque. CIE will provide Centres with information about the quantity of each item required for the session on the advice note received with the stationery despatch from CIE.

The invigilator must ensure that only the specified items



are issued to the candidates. Centres must provide only writing paper for the examination (including the paper for rough work). The invigilator should issue blotting paper if required.

In a subject where there is a multiple-choice test and individual pre-printed answer sheets are provided for each candidate, the invigilator must ensure that each individual answer sheet is given to the candidate whose name appears on it and that the sheets relate to the subject and the component/module concerned.

Candidates must provide themselves with pens, pencils, ink, drawing instruments and erasers. Candidates must write their answers legibly in black or dark blue ink. Invigilators should warn candidates that the use of pale blue ink contributes to illegibility. Candidates must not use red ink. They must use soft pencil (type B or HB is recommended) for multiple-choice tests. They may use pencils or pens in other colours for diagrams and maps only if indicated on the question paper.

3.2.6.1 Additional stationery and materials for Science papers

The following should be available to candidates in all Science papers:

ruler (300 mm)• protractor• set square• pair of compasses• graph paper•

CIE will not list these specific additional materials on Science question papers.

Candidates are permitted to use calculators in all Science papers and there will be no future reference to their use on question papers. (See 3.3.3 for regulations governing the use of calculators.)

Where Centres anticipate or encounter any difficulties with the availability of calculators they should make mathematical tables available. Candidates are not allowed to take their own copies of mathematical tables into the examination room (see 3.3.4).

3.2.7 Starting the examination

An examination is deemed to be in progress from the time the candidates enter the examination room until all the scripts have been collected.

Before candidates are permitted to start work, the invigilator must carry out the following:

(a) Ensure that the candidates are seated in accordance with the prescribed seating arrangements.

(b) Inform the candidates that they are now subject to the regulations of the examination.

(c) Warn the candidates that they must hand in any unauthorised material not previously handed in (see 3.2.5). This should include any food or drinks, which may only be allowed in the examination room with the specific approval of the Head of Centre. Centres must warn candidates about the severe penalties if they are found in possession of unauthorised material.

(d) Check that the candidates have all the necessary materials to enable them to complete the examination.

(e) Check that the question paper packets are intact (including all the seals), open the packets of question papers and issue the papers to candidates, stating they must not open them until instructed.

(Question paper packets must normally remain sealed so that the invigilator can open them in the presence of the candidates. There are special circumstances when such a procedure is not possible. For example, where more than one room is used or when there are large numbers of candidates, it would be more sensible to place question papers face upward on desks before candidates enter the room.)

(It is the responsibility of the invigilator to report to the Head of Centre any grounds for suspicion about the security of the examination papers. The Head of Centre or Parent Organisation must notify CIE immediately, and subsequently submit a full written report.)

(f) Draw the candidates’ attention to the instructions and information printed on the front of the question paper, and ask them to check that the invigilator has given them the examination paper for the correct subject/component.



Any statement made about the instructions may only take the form of a translation of the instructions into other languages, if the Centre sees a need for this.

(g) Inform the candidates of the contents of any erratum notices. The invigilator must not give any information to candidates about suspected errors in the question paper except those stated on any erratum notices received.

(h) Inform candidates that:

(i) they must write their answers legibly in black or dark blue ink or ball-point pen

(ii) they must not use correcting fluid/correcting pens

(iii) they must not use highlighters and glue unless the question paper gives instructions to the contrary

(iv) unless the question paper gives instructions to the contrary they must do all work (including any rough work) on the examination stationery provided by the Centre. They should neatly cross through rough work but not obliterate it as the Centre will include it with the answers sent to CIE

(v) in the case of multiple-choice papers, they must do any rough work on the question paper.

(i) Instruct the candidates to write their name, Centre number, candidate number and the component code/paper details on their answer paper, where applicable, and to complete any other details as required.

(j) Remind the candidates that they are forbidden to communicate in any way with, seek assistance from, or give assistance to, another candidate whilst they are in the examination room.

(k) Inform the candidates of the time allowed for the examination and announce clearly that they can open the question paper and may begin to read the questions and to write their answers. Under no circumstances must invigilators permit candidates extra time, prior to the official start of the examination, in which to read through the question paper.

3.3 During the examination

3.3.1 Supervision of the candidates

Invigilators must supervise the candidates throughout the whole time the examination is in progress and give complete attention to this duty at all times (see 3.1.4).

3.3.2 Practical examinations for general qualifications

During a practical examination, it is recognised that some movement by candidates and spoken instructions may be necessary. Invigilators must limit these to what is essential to achieve the objectives of the examination without compromising the security of the examination. (See 3.4 for special instructions for practical examinations.)

3.3.3 Use of calculators

In the absence of any specific local regulations, candidates may use electronic calculators unless their use is specifically prohibited by the syllabus. In certain places CIE may, in consultation with the relevant Parent Organisation, issue specific local regulations governing the use of electronic calculators, these will override the above regulation.

Where the use of electronic calculators is allowed in examinations, the Centre must inform candidates in advance of the following:

(a) The calculator must be of a size suitable for use on the desk at which the candidate will sit the examination.

(b) They must remove batteries while the calculator is switched on, so that the stored programmes are cleared. If the calculator has a re-set button, the candidate can activate it while the calculator is switched on, to delete any stored programmes or data.

(c) The power supply for the calculator is the responsibility of the candidate and must be integral to the calculator. Where appropriate, the candidate may bring a spare set of batteries into the examination room.



(d) The working condition of the calculator is the responsibility of the candidate.

(e) The calculator must be silent, with a visual display only.

(f) CIE will not normally consider a fault in a calculator as justifying the giving of special consideration to the candidate.

(g) Candidates must not be in possession of calculator cases, instruction leaflets or instructions and formulae printed on the lid or cover of a calculator, or similar materials, during the examination. Anything printed on a lid or cover that the candidate cannot remove must be securely covered.

(h) Candidates must not be in possession of external storage media (e.g. card, tape, disk, smartcard and plug-in modules) during the examination.

(i) Candidates must not borrow calculators from other candidates in the course of the examination for any reason, although the invigilator may provide a candidate with a replacement calculator.

(j) Candidates may use programmable calculators, but must not take any prepared programs into the examination room. Candidates must clear information and/or programs stored in the calculator’s memory before and after the examination. Retrieval of prepared information and/or programs during the examination, or removal of question paper content from the examination room, is an infringement of the regulations.

(k) Candidates are responsible for clearing any information and/or programs stored in the calculator before and after the examination.

(l) The calculator must not be able to manipulate algebra, it must be purely numerical integration/differentiation.

Calculators with any of the following facilities are prohibited, unless specifically stated otherwise in the syllabus:

graphic display• data banks• dictionaries• language translators• retrieval or manipulation of text or formulae• QWERTY keyboards• built-in symbolic algebraic manipulations • symbolic differentiation or integration• capability of remote communication with other •

machines.

CIE will regard the use of any such calculator as malpractice.

3.3.4 Use of mathematical tables

Centres must provide candidates with mathematical tables in the examination room for syllabuses where they are either specifically required by the subject syllabus or required (not just optional) in the additional materials list on the question paper. The tables provided are The Cambridge Elementary Mathematical Tables (Second Edition) published by Cambridge University Press. Candidates are not allowed to take their own copies of mathematical tables into the examination room.

Other mathematical tables and statistical tables are prohibited in all subjects, unless either specifically permitted by the subject syllabus or included in the additional materials on the question paper.

3.3.5 Use of dictionaries

Dictionaries are prohibited in A Level, AS Level and O Level examinations, except where specifically permitted by the syllabus. The Centre must check the syllabuses before the examination to determine if a dictionary can be allowed.

The use of simple translation dictionaries is permitted in the Science and Mathematics Checkpoint examinations. They are not permitted in the English examination.

The use of simple translation dictionaries is allowed in Cambridge International Diplomas, Cambridge Young Enterprise International, HIGCSE and IGCSE examinations, except in the case of language examinations or where specifically prohibited in the syllabus.

‘Simple translation dictionary’ means a dictionary that only translates the word and does not also give a translation of the meaning or definition of the word.

The use of electronic dictionaries is not permitted in examinations.



3.3.6 Late arrival of candidates

(a) Centres may allow a candidate who arrives after the starting time for an examination to enter the examination room to sit the examination. However, Centres must warn the candidate that CIE reserves the right not to accept the script.

(b) When deciding whether to accept any of the work completed by a candidate who arrives late, CIE will pay particular attention to the extent to which it considers the security of the examination was maintained, especially in respect of the KEY TIME.

(c) The Centre, at its discretion, may allow the full time for the examination for a candidate who arrives after the scheduled starting time. In such cases, the Centre should indicate the official finishing time on the candidate’s script.

(d) In each case where a candidate who is admitted late into an examination room the following rules apply:

the Centre must send the answer script to CIE • in the normal way

the Centre must indicate on the answer script • any work completed after the Centre’s actual finishing time

the Head of Centre must send a full report • using Form 9a, which must include the following information:

(i) the reason for the late arrival of the candidate, including details of any arrangements made for the candidate to reach the Centre

(ii) the Centre’s actual start and finish times of the examination, including details of any arrangements for dealing with large numbers of candidates in practical examinations

(iii) the time at which the candidate started the examination

(iv) the time at which the candidate finished the examination

(v) the KEY TIME of the examination

(vi) a statement regarding any possible breach of examination security arising from the candidate’s late arrival, including information about the extent to which the candidate was under supervision from the actual starting time of the examination. Submit all forms to CIE by fax

or post:

Regulations University of Cambridge International

Examinations 1 Hills Road Cambridge CB1 2EU United Kingdom

Fax number: +44 1223 553558

3.3.6.1 Reasons which CIE may consider as acceptable for late arrival

In cases where the candidate is late for good reason and CIE is satisfied that there has been no breach of examination security (e.g. supervision can be guaranteed by the Centre in respect of the KEY TIME), CIE will accept the work completed in the whole of the examination, including that completed in any additional time allowed to compensate for the late arrival. Examples of acceptable reasons are sudden illness or transport difficulties beyond the candidate’s control.

3.3.6.2 Non-acceptable reasons for late arrival

In cases where a candidate is late because of negligence or oversight, and CIE is satisfied that there has been no breach of security (e.g. supervision can be guaranteed by the Centre in respect of the KEY TIME), CIE will accept the work completed in normal examination time. However, CIE will not accept any work completed in any additional time allowed. Examples of reasons which are not acceptable are oversleeping or misreading of the timetable.

3.3.6.3 Late arrival for a period of Full Centre Supervision

(a) Centres may allow a candidate who arrives after the starting time for a period of required Full Centre Supervision prior to an examination to enter the supervised conditions and to then take the examination. However, Centres must warn the candidate that CIE reserves the right not to accept the script.



(b) When deciding whether to accept any of the work completed by a candidate who arrived late for a period of required Full Centre Supervision for an examination, CIE will pay particular attention to the extent to which it considers the security of the examination was maintained, especially in respect of the KEY TIME.

(c) If a candidate arrives late for a period of required Full Centre Supervision before an examination, but after the KEY TIME for the examination, then the candidate can only be permitted to enter Full Centre Supervision if they do not have any contact or communication with any other candidates currently under Full Centre Supervision.

(d) In each case where a candidate who is admitted late into a period of Full Centre Supervision the following rules apply:

the Centre must send the answer script to CIE • in the normal way

the Head of Centre must send a full report • using Form 9a, which must include the following information:

(i) the reason for the late arrival of the candidate, including details of any arrangements made for the candidate to reach the Centre

(ii) the Centre’s actual start and finish times for the period of Full Centre Supervision, and for the examination; including details of any arrangements for dealing with large numbers of candidates in practical examinations

(iii) the time at which the candidate entered Full Centre Supervision

(iv) the KEY TIME of the examination

(v) a statement regarding any possible breach of examination security arising from the candidate’s late arrival, including information about the extent to which the candidate was under supervision from the actual starting time of the period of Full Centre Supervision until they entered supervised conditions at the Centre. Submit all forms to CIE by fax or post:

RegulationsUniversity of Cambridge InternationalExaminations1 Hills RoadCambridgeCB1 2EUUnited KingdomFax number: +44 1223 553558

3.3.7 Candidates arriving after the examination has finished

(a) A candidate who arrives after the other candidates have been released from the examination room must be dealt with as absent and Centres should not allow them to take the examination. In each such case the Centre must advise the candidate that CIE may issue a ‘No Result’ in the subject affected.

(b) If a candidate arrives late for an afternoon paper that a Centre has, with the approval of CIE, rescheduled to a morning session, the Centre may permit the candidate to take the paper at the published time, provided that the candidate has not had any contact with candidates who sat the paper at the rescheduled time. In such cases, acceptance of the answer script will be at the discretion of CIE.

3.3.8 Leaving the examination room

(a) Candidates cannot leave the examination room until after the KEY TIME of the examination unless the Centre keeps them under Full Centre Supervision until the KEY TIME. The candidate must hand in their work when they leave, and the Centre must not permit them to re-enter the examination room.

(b) Candidates who leave the examination room temporarily must be accompanied by a member of staff. In cases where special consideration is applied for (e.g. illness), the Centre may allow such candidates extra time to compensate for their temporary absence.

(c) Whether or not they leave the examination room early, candidates may not remove any question papers or transcribed content of question papers. This includes such methods as writing questions on statements of entry, inserting question content into calculators etc. (This is not an exhaustive list.)



Centres must apply the 24 hour rule for security of question papers and their contents.

3.3.9 Irregular conduct

(a) Wherever possible, the invigilator must remove and retain any unauthorised material discovered in the possession of a candidate in the examination.

(b) It is the duty of the Head of Centre to ensure that they report all cases of irregularity or misconduct in connection with the examination to CIE as soon as possible. The Head of Centre is empowered to expel a candidate from the examination room, but they should only take such action when it is felt to be essential or when the continued presence of a candidate would cause disruption to other candidates.

(c) Any infringement of the regulations may lead to a disqualification of the candidate. The decision on disqualification rests with CIE.

3.3.10 Emergencies

The invigilator must take the following action in the event of an emergency such as a fire alarm or bomb alert:

evacuate the examination room•

ensure that the candidates are fully supervised • whilst they are out of the examination room, so as to ensure there is no collusion or external communication

ensure that all the question papers and answer • scripts are left in the examination room and that the room is secured

after the candidates have returned to the • examination room and before the examination is resumed, indicate on the candidates’ work, where it is feasible to do so, the point at which the interruption occurred

note the time and duration of the interruption•

allow the candidates the full working time • prescribed for the examination

if there is only a small number of candidates, • give consideration to the possibility of taking the candidates, with question papers and scripts, to

another place in order to complete the examination

make a full report of the incident and of the action • taken, for immediate submission to CIE.

3.4 Special instructions

3.4.1 Practical examinations in the General Qualification Science syllabuses

3.4.1.1 Confidential instructions

CIE will give the requirements for practical examinations in the syllabus-specific confidential instructions. CIE will send these instructions to Centres several weeks before the examinations begin. Centres must regard them as confidential and they are intended only to enable the member of staff in charge of the laboratory, (the supervisor), to undertake proper preparations before the examination session. Under no circumstances must any information contained in the instructions reach candidates, either directly or indirectly, (see 3.1.2 (d) (i)).

Centres must keep the confidential instructions under secure conditions at all times and it is the responsibility of the Head of Centre to ensure that the contents remain confidential. Under no circumstances must Centres discuss the confidential instructions with any other Centre.

Centres must refer any enquiries relating to the confidential instructions to CIE or, in the case of local arrangements, to the Parent Organisation. Under no circumstances must Centres open any question paper packets before the examination. There are no exceptions.

3.4.1.2 Materials

In addition to apparatus and materials obtained from local sources, CIE may supply some materials or, by special arrangements with CIE, Centres may obtain them from particular firms. Materials supplied by CIE will be clearly and completely labelled and CIE will give directions for their issue in the syllabus-specific confidential instructions. Centres must check materials and specimens provided by CIE against the list provided as soon as they are received. Centres must report any



discrepancies to CIE immediately.

Centres must open the packets containing perishable specimens (e.g. enzymes for biological practical experiments) immediately upon receipt and keep them in a refrigerator which is not accessible to unauthorised persons.

The Head of Centre, in conjunction with the supervisor, is responsible for the safe and secure confidential custody of all materials until they are used in the examination. No information about these materials must reach candidates, either directly or indirectly (see 3.1.2 (d) (i)).

After the examination, Centres must return all slide boxes and microscope slides to CIE, unless otherwise stated. In some cases CIE may allow Centres the option of retaining material and paying replacement costs, using the form enclosed with the material. Unless stated otherwise in the confidential instructions to supervisors, CIE may charge Centres for the cost of materials not returned in good condition.

3.4.1.3 Large numbers of candidates

If the number of candidates entered for a practical test at any Centre is larger than can be accommodated at one time, the Centre may divide candidates into two groups. Both groups must take the test on the same day and there should be the minimum possible delay between sessions. The Centre must make very careful arrangements to keep the groups apart until all candidates have completed the test, and must maintain the security of the examination at all times. Centres must notify CIE in advance of any such arrangement. (See 5.5 for further instructions.)

Centres must ensure that no prior knowledge of the test is made available to candidates waiting to complete the tests, either from other candidates, the supervisor, invigilators or other Centre staff, or by electronic or external means from contact outside the Centre, such as candidates from other Centres who have completed the test.

Centres must supervise all candidates at the KEY TIME on the timetable. Candidates may be taking the examination or they may be sequestered under Full Centre Supervision, before or after taking the examination. If the Centre has divided the candidates into two groups it may be desirable to schedule the examination so that one group finishes the examination

at (or close to) the KEY TIME, and the other group starts the examination at (or close to) the KEY TIME. This will ensure that the amount of time that candidates spend under supervision is kept to a minimum.

In some countries, scheduling the two groups in this way may cause a morning practical examination to overlap with the afternoon examination session. In such cases Centres may use one or more of the following measures to ensure that no candidate needs to be in two examinations at the same time:

arrange the two groups of candidates so that those • who also have an afternoon examination take the practical examination first

arrange the time of the practical examination so that • the changeover between the two groups is earlier that the KEY TIME (which will require the Centre to supervise the first group of candidates after their practical examination)

delay the start of the afternoon examination • (provided that all of the candidates are under Full Centre Supervision at the KEY TIME).

In other countries, scheduling the two groups in this way may cause an afternoon practical examination to overlap with the morning examination session. In such cases, Centres may use one or more of the following measures to ensure that no candidate needs to be in two examinations at the same time:

arrange the two groups of candidates so that those • who also have a morning examination take the practical examination last

arrange the time of the practical examination so that • the changeover between the two groups is later than the KEY TIME (which will require the Centre to supervise the second group of candidates before their practical examination)

make the start of the morning examination earlier • (provided that all of the candidates are under Full Centre Supervision at the KEY TIME).

The invigilator, in consultation with the supervisor, may make arrangements for some candidates to begin their work with one question and some with another, if this would facilitate the use of the apparatus and materials available.

If the number of candidates is larger than can be accommodated in two groups, the Centre should contact CIE well in advance of the examination to



discuss the arrangements.

3.4.1.4 Invigilation

In all practical examinations, invigilators must take special care to prevent communication between the candidates, especially where the arrangements require candidates to move, from time to time, from one part of the laboratory or examination room to another.One invigilator must be present for every 15 candidates and at least two invigilators must be present in each laboratory where an examination is being conducted. It is essential that the supervisor who set up the examination should be present in the examination room at the start of the examination and should also be available throughout the duration of the practical examination to deal with technical difficulties that may arise, including matters of safety, and to assist with the invigilation in general. Ideally one of the invigilators should be a specialist in the subject being examined; this may be the supervisor who was responsible for setting up the practical examination.

Where the supervisor is expected to perform the experiments on the question paper, they should do this in a separate room or in an area of the laboratory at a suitable distance from the candidates. The Centre must provide adequate invigilation while the supervisor is occupied with the experiments.

If the supervisor has been involved in the preparation of any of the candidates for the examination in any manner then another invigilator must be present at all times. Centres must carry out all invigilation in accordance with the regulations detailed in 3.1.4.

Where the practical examination requires a changeover of candidates between one set of apparatus and another, the supervisor must reset the equipment back to its initial state each time, unless directed otherwise by the confidential instructions. Centres must not deduct any time required for this changeover from the total time allotted for the examination. Invigilators must ensure that no communication takes place between candidates during the changeover period.

The supervisor and any invigilators should consult the syllabus-specific confidential instructions and must include with the answer scripts any information required by CIE, e.g. the report form attached to the question paper or to the confidential instructions.

A brief guide to invigilating Science practical

examinations is in the Handbook (see page 55). It is intended to be only a reminder for invigilators and they must use it in conjunction with the regulations contained in this Handbook.

3.4.2 Special instructions for IGCSE speaking tests

Four working days before the first day of speaking tests at the Centre, the Head of Centre should make available the confidential teachers’ notes to the head of department or appropriate teacher/examiner. The teacher/examiner must allow sufficient time to familiarise themselves with the materials and procedures, but must not remove materials from the Centre. Centres must store materials in secure conditions in accordance with 3.1.2.

3.4.3 Special instructions for IGCSE and GCE listening tests

CIE will supply Centres with the recorded material for the listening tests, which they may keep after the examination. Centres are strongly advised to hold the listening test in a room that is suitable for up to 30 candidates. If a Centre has equipment that is especially powerful, it may accommodate more candidates without special permission, but CIE will not consider applications for special consideration on the grounds of inaudibility. Centres may use language laboratories, but they must take particular care to ensure adequate supervision. Certain papers require candidates to have personal listening facilities, e.g. CD players with headphones.

3.4.3.1 Checking recorded material for listening tests

(a) Centres must spot-check listening test material immediately on receipt for recording and sound quality.

(b) In order to check the acoustics (i.e. the loudspeakers and sound quality) Centres must spot-check the test material at the appropriate volume in the examination room one working day before the examination. This check must not affect the security of the examination.



(c) On neither of the above occasions may Centres listen to the test material in full or remove it from the Centre for checking. After each check Centres must return the test material to the examination question paper store.

3.4.3.2 Conduct of a listening test

Ideally, a member of staff who speaks the language of the listening test should be present to deal with any technical difficulties that may arise. If this person has to be the teacher who prepared the candidates for the subject under examination, they must not be the sole invigilator (see 3.1.4).

Once started, the invigilator must not stop the test, except in the case of a serious emergency. Noise from outside the examination room does not constitute a serious emergency and the invigilator must not stop the test in these circumstances. The invigilator should warn candidates of this before the test begins.

In the event of the test being stopped in a serious emergency, the invigilator should restart it once they have dealt with the emergency, at exactly the same place. The invigilator must include a report with the candidates’ scripts, indicating at which point in the test the interruption took place, the nature of the incident and the length of the interruption. If there is good reason to doubt whether all candidates heard certain items, the invigilator must identify these items in the report and give the reason for doubt.

Centres must contact CIE if equipment fails during the examination, in order to make alternative arrangements for the conduct of the listening test.

3.4.3.3 Large numbers of candidates

If the numbers of candidates entered for a listening test at any Centre is larger than can be accommodated at one time, the Centre may divide the candidates into two groups. Both groups must take the test on the same day and there should be the minimum possible delay between the sessions. The Centre must make very careful arrangements to keep the groups apart until all candidates have completed the test, and must maintain security of the examination at all times. Centres must notify CIE in advance of any such arrangements. (See 3.4.1.3 for further instructions.)

All candidates must be under supervision at the KEY TIME on the timetable. Candidates may be taking the examination or they may be sequestered under Full Centre Supervision, before or after taking the examination. If the Centre has divided the candidates into two groups it may be desirable to schedule the examination so that one group finishes the examination at (or close to) the KEY TIME, and the other group starts the examination at (or close to) the KEY TIME. This will ensure that the amount of time that candidates spend under Full Centre Supervision is kept to a minimum.

In some countries, scheduling the two groups in this way may cause a morning practical examination to overlap with the afternoon examination session. In such cases Centres may use one or more of the following measures to ensure that no candidate needs to be in two examinations at the same time:

arrange the two groups of candidates so that those • who also have an afternoon examination take the practical examination first

arrange the time of the practical examination so that • the changeover between the two groups is earlier that the KEY TIME (which will require the Centre to supervise the first group of candidates after their practical examination)

delay the start of the afternoon examination • (provided that all of the candidates are under Full Centre Supervision at the KEY TIME).

In other countries, scheduling the two groups in this way may cause an afternoon practical examination to overlap with the morning examination session. In such cases, Centres may use one or more of the following measures to ensure that no candidate needs to be in two examinations at the same time:

arrange the two groups of candidates so that those • who also have a morning examination take the practical examination last

arrange the time of the practical examination so that • the changeover between the two groups is later than the KEY TIME (which will require the Centre to supervise the second group of candidates before their practical examination)

make the start of the morning examination earlier • (provided that all of the candidates are under Full Centre Supervision at the KEY TIME).



If the number of candidates is larger than can be accommodated in two groups, the Centre should contact CIE well in advance of the examination to discuss the arrangements.

3.4.4 ‘Open book’ Literature components

3.4.4.1 HIGCSE syllabuses 1220 (First Language English) Paper 4

1223 (First Language Afrikaans) Paper 4

1229 (Afrikaans as a Second Language) Paper 4

1230 (English as a Second Language) Paper 4

Candidates should take their set texts into the examination room for the syllabuses listed above. The set texts must be original published books only, not photocopies from books. Set texts must not contain notes made by the candidate, but may contain underlining and highlighting only. Invigilators must check to ensure that candidates use original published books only, (not photocopies unless the Centre has made a prior agreement with CIE Regulations), and ensure that they do not contain notes made by the candidates. The invigilator must report all breaches of this regulation to CIE.

For passage-based exercises on these components, the question paper will state a chapter/scene/page reference. In some cases, if appropriate, the paper may provide references to several available editions. Heads of department are allowed to open the question paper an hour in advance of the examination to clarify or provide the relevant references for their candidates, in the event that they have been using a different edition. Should any references need to be clarified or provided, the head of department should hand the information in writing to the invigilator, who should read it to candidates at the start of the examination. Heads of department/invigilators may also write such references on a board at the front of the examination room.

3.4.4.2 IGCSE syllabuses 0486 (English) Paper 1

0488 (Spanish) Paper 1

Candidates should take their set texts into the examination room for the syllabuses listed above. The set texts must be original published books only, not photocopies from books. Set texts must not contain notes, underlining, highlighting or any other annotations or additions made by the candidate. Invigilators must check to ensure that candidates use original published books only, (not photocopies unless the Centre has made prior agreement with CIE Regulations), and ensure that they do not contain notes made by the candidates. Invigilators must report all breaches of this regulation to CIE. (Note: IGCSE English Literature Paper 4 is a ‘closed book’ component, where texts are not allowed.)

For passage-based exercises on these components, the question paper will state a chapter/scene/page reference. In some cases, if appropriate, the paper may provide references to several available editions. Heads of department are allowed to open the question paper an hour in advance of the examination to clarify or provide the relevant references for their candidates, in the event that they have been using a different edition. Should any references need to be clarified or provided, the head of department should hand the information in writing to the invigilator, who should read it to candidates at the start of the examination. Heads of department/invigilators may also write such references on a board at the front of the examination room.

3.4.5 Special instructions for IGCSE ICT and AS & A Level Applied ICT practical tests

3.4.5.1 IGCSE ICT and AS & A Level Applied ICT practical tests

When Centres request the practical papers, CIE will send the supervisor instructions for practical tests. Centres must follow these carefully, along with the procedures for conducting practical tests, which are in the syllabus. A suitably competent supervisor, who may be the candidates’ tutor, is responsible for the administration of the practical tests according to these instructions and procedures, which they should use



alongside the regulations outlined in this Handbook. The supervisor is responsible for the preparation of the hardware and software for the test.

3.4.5.2 Timetabling

CIE does not timetable the practical tests in the same way as most IGCSE and AS & A Level written papers. The IGCSE and AS & A Level timetable will specify a period within which candidates must take the two practical tests. Within this period, Centres may conduct the practical tests at any convenient time or times. Candidates must complete each practical test in a single session.

The candidates are not all required to take the tests at the same time, and Centres do not need to sequester them until other candidates have taken the test. Some Centres may therefore choose to conduct each test in several sessions over a number of days or weeks.

When arranging examination dates, Centres should take into account the time needed to set up the system, to provide a supervisor worked copy and should allow contingency planning (e.g. to reschedule examination times due to possible hardware failure).

3.4.5.3 Preparation for the practical tests

Before the candidates take a practical test, the supervisor must work through a past/specimen paper, using the hardware and software that the candidates will be using. Centres must submit a supervisor worked copy for each paper that candidates are entered for (0418 past papers can be used for 0417).

Please note that the supervisor should not use the live assessment for the supervisor’s worked copy.

The supervisor worked copy is required in order to:

ensure that the hardware and software at the • Centre will enable the candidates to meet all the performance criteria

help the examiner understand the approach taken • by the candidates.

Centres are responsible for ensuring that the hardware and software candidates will be using is in full working

order and that it will enable them to meet all the performance criteria as specified in the syllabus. CIE will not take into consideration errors resulting from faulty software or hardware when marking candidates’ work.

Centres are responsible for candidates having access to the Internet. However, if the Centre has only limited or unreliable Internet access, it may download pages from the assessment website (www.hothouse-design.co.uk) and place them on its network or intranet as required. The Centre will then need to make candidates clearly aware before the start of the test of alternative arrangements for sending email messages and searching for specified files required for the tasks.

Centres are responsible for ensuring that a spare computer/printer is available in case of equipment failure. If equipment failure occurs, the invigilator should permit the candidate to move to another machine if necessary, making sure that the candidate does not have access to other candidates’ work, (e.g. by using secure areas on all machines or changing the default settings). Centres must ensure that sufficient stocks of toner, paper etc. are provided.

There is no requirement for candidates to print their work in colour, unless otherwise instructed. CIE will not give extra credit to work printed in colour. It is, however, the candidate’s responsibility to ensure that adequate differentiation is present on monochrome printouts (e.g. sectors of a pie chart are distinguishable). Where appropriate, invigilators must make candidates aware of this in an announcement immediately before the start of the test.


At least two invigilators must be present for the test. It is essential that a suitably competent invigilator, preferably the supervisor, is present in the test room to deal with any technical difficulties that may arise. If the supervisor has been involved in the preparation of any of the candidates for the test, then another invigilator must be present at all times. It is left to the discretion of the Centre to appoint suitable personnel, but the availability of an extra technician in addition to the invigilators is encouraged. Centres must carry out all invigilation in accordance with the regulations detailed in 3.1.4 of this Handbook. The supervisor and invigilators must consult the syllabus-specific procedures for conducting practical tests and the supervisor instructions for practical tests.



A brief guide to invigilating IGCSE ICT practical tests is in this Handbook. It is intended to be used as a reminder for invigilators. Invigilators must only use it in conjunction with the regulations contained in this Handbook, as well as the guidelines in the syllabus and the supervisor instructions.

Candidates must not have access during the test to their own electronic files or personal notes, pre-prepared templates or other files. Candidates are not allowed to refer to textbooks or Centre-prepared manuals during the test. During the practical test candidates may use English or simple translation dictionaries (see also 3.3.5), spell-checkers, software help facilities and manufacturer manuals on the software packages. Candidates may use software wizards provided by the original software vendor. Supervisor/invigilators must not give any other help to the candidates during the test, unless there is an equipment failure. The supervisor must record any assistance given to an individual candidate beyond that given to the group as a whole and must submit their report to CIE with the candidates’ work.

Candidates must not communicate with each another in any way (including the use of email, via the Internet, intranet or instant messaging) and Centres must ensure the security of the individual candidate’s files. Centres are strongly advised to consider setting up passwords to control login procedures and to ensure that only authorised access to files is possible. Candidates must not have access to portable storage media, e.g. memory sticks or floppy disks. Invigilators must be constantly vigilant and observant throughout the test.

3.4.5.5 Security issues

The practical tests are a test of skills, not of knowledge or understanding. The performance criteria (i.e. the skills which are included in the test) are published in the syllabus and are available to candidates. The majority of the performance criteria are assessed in each examination. Candidates can therefore gain no advantage by speaking to other candidates who have already taken the tests; they already know what skills they have had to acquire. The security issues associated with the practical tests are therefore different to those associated with conventional written papers.

There are, nevertheless, important security issues. For example, candidates must not gain sufficient knowledge of the tests to enable them to rote-learn the sequences of keystrokes or commands which form the

answers. Centres must treat all assessment material as confidential and must only issue it at the time of the test. Centres must not use live CIE assessment material for practising skills.

Centres must keep secure all work stored on a network or hard disk. Centres are advised to consider setting up passwords to control login procedures and to ensure that only authorised access to files is possible.Centres must ensure that:

candidates do not have access to test material • except during their test

at the end of each session the invigilator must • collect all assessment material (including the CIE practical tests and candidates’ completed work)

the Centre must destroy all draft copies and rough • work which it is not submitting.

After the test, the invigilator must collect all copies of the test papers and the Centre must either destroy them or keep them under secure conditions until the end of the examination session. Candidates are not permitted to retain a copy of the test, or of any printouts produced during the test, or of any electronic files which form part of the test or have been produced during the test. The Centre must keep candidates’ work securely between the end of the test and submission to CIE.

3.4.5.6 Equipment failure

In the event of a system crash, software failure, power cut or damage to equipment occurring during the test, any action taken must ensure that the Centre can guarantee the integrity of the test.

If a candidate appears to be having problems with faulty equipment, the invigilator must inform the supervisor, who must determine whether the fault lies with the equipment or the candidate. If equipment failure occurs with an individual computer, the invigilator should permit the candidate to move to another machine if necessary. Invigilators are advised to check that candidates do not have access to other candidates’ work (e.g. by using secure areas on all machines or changing the default settings).

If equipment can be restored, the invigilator may give extra time to the candidates to compensate for time lost while the problem was resolved, as long as



the Centre can guarantee the integrity of the test. If equipment failure makes it impossible to continue with the test (e.g. power has been lost indefinitely or all the candidate’s work has been lost or corrupted), all the candidate’s work must be destroyed and the Centre should allow the candidate a second attempt at the test on a different day. This must only be a last resort.

If there has been an equipment failure, the supervisor must submit a detailed report to CIE examiners (supervisor Report Folder – SRF) with the candidates’ work. The report must state the nature of the problem, the candidates affected, and the actions taken.

3.4.5.7 Printing

Candidates’ work will take the form of printouts. Centres must not submit other forms of output (e.g. floppy disks, CD-ROM). Each printout must include the candidate’s name, number and Centre number. Candidates must enter this information before printing. This information must not be hand-written. CIE will not mark any printouts with either hand-written details or no candidate details. If candidates produce additional rough copies of printouts, these must be neatly crossed through to indicate that they are not the copy to be marked.

Candidates must send all work to the printer during the duration of the test. Only in the event of a printer breakdown may the Centre use its discretion on extending the time specified for the test. The supervisor must record this as part of their report. Printouts may be collated after the test time specified under supervised conditions.

It is essential that an invigilator gives the printouts to candidates and that candidates do not collect the printouts from the printer themselves. Invigilators must make sure that candidates are given only their own printouts.

3.4.6 Special instructions for IGCSE computer-based tests

3.4.6.1 IGCSE computer-based tests

CIE will send the procedures for conducting computer-based tests and the technical instructions for installation to Centres when they submit entries

for the relevant syllabus and option. These must be carefully followed. A suitably competent supervisor is responsible for the installation and administration of the computer-based tests according to these instructions and procedures. They should use these alongside the regulations outlined in this Handbook. The supervisor is responsible for the preparation of the hardware and software for the test. When planning the examination the supervisor should take into account the time required to install the software.

3.4.6.2 Preparation for the computer-based tests

Centres are responsible for ensuring that the hardware and software candidates will be using is in full working order and that it will enable them to take the test. In the event of a candidate being unable to complete the test due to failure of either hardware or software, the Centre must inform CIE as soon as possible. CIE can then arrange for candidates to take the alternative to coursework component (the written examination) instead of the computer-based test.

If equipment failure occurs, permit candidates to move to another machine if necessary.

3.4.6.3 Isolated workstations

Seating arrangements must prevent each candidate from being able to see another candidate’s screen. The minimum distance between the outer edge of one screen and the next must be 1.25 metres, unless the monitors are positioned back-to-back or separated by dividers high enough to prevent candidates from overlooking the work of others. In this case, the minimum distance need not apply. However, if the screens are diagonally opposite and not separated by dividers, 1.25 metres may not be sufficient. The principal objective is to ensure that no candidate’s work is overseen by others, and supervisors/invigilators must take appropriate steps to ensure that this can be achieved. Example desk arrangements are given below.



During the test (or each session of a test), the invigilator must complete a room plan showing the candidates’ positions and direction of the workstations, the base position of the invigilators, and any pillars or similar obstructions. The Centre must send this plan to CIE after the examination, together with the attendance register.


At least two invigilators must be present for the test. It is essential that a suitably competent invigilator, preferably the supervisor, is present in the test room to deal with any technical difficulties that may arise. It is left to the discretion of the Centre to appoint suitable personnel, but the availability of an extra technician in addition to the invigilators is encouraged.

Centres must carry out all invigilation in accordance with the regulations detailed in 3.1.4 of this Handbook. The supervisor and invigilators should consult the syllabus-specific procedures for conducting computer based tests and technical instructions for installation.

3.4.6.5 Equipment failure

In the event of a system crash, software failure, power cut or damage to equipment occurring during the test, extra time may be given to candidates to compensate for the time lost while the problem is resolved.

If, in the supervisor’s opinion, an equipment failure makes it impossible to continue with the test, then the supervisor may decide to abort the test. If this decision is taken, then all the candidate’s work must be destroyed and the candidate should be allowed a second attempt at the test on a different day. This is the

only situation in which a candidate may be allowed a second attempt at a practical test.

Second attempts are only permitted as a last resort, for example where all of a candidate’s data has been lost or corrupted and it is impossible to continue with the test without starting again, or where power has been lost indefinitely, or where failed equipment cannot be replaced within a reasonable time.

If there has been an equipment failure, the supervisor must submit a detailed report to CIE. The report must state the nature of the problem, the candidates affected and the actions taken.

3.4.7 Special instructions for IGCSE, AS & A Level Art and Design

Centres should refer to ‘A Guide to Administering Art and Design Practical Examinations’, which is published in the relevant Art and Design syllabus.

3.5 At the end of the examination

3.5.1 Finishing the examination

Five minutes before the end of the examination, the invigilator must inform the candidates that there are five minutes remaining.

At the end of the examination, the invigilator must tell the candidates to stop writing and to place their pens/pencils on their desks immediately.

Where invigilators permit candidates who arrive late the full working time to complete their examination (see 3.3.6), they can allow such candidates to continue after the normal finishing time and tell them to stop writing after the additional time allowed.

The invigilator must instruct the candidates:

(a) to ensure that they have entered all the required information on their answer scripts

(b) to ensure that their answers are correctly numbered

(c) to assemble any loose sheets (including rough work) in the order in which they attempted the questions and to fasten these and any supplementary answer sheets to the back of their answer scripts,



or as otherwise instructed, with the string or tags provided by the Centre (they must not use paper-clips or staples).

3.5.2 Collection of answer scripts

Centres must ensure that they collect all answer scripts before the candidates are allowed to leave the examination room.

Invigilators must sort answer scripts into the order shown on the attendance register (candidate number order), and check to make sure that all answer scripts are present and that candidates have used their correct Centre and candidate numbers.

After collation, the invigilator must hand answer scripts immediately to the person responsible for their despatch, who must place them immediately in the return envelope and seal it. Answer scripts are confidential between the candidate and CIE. They may not be read or photocopied by any person prior to despatch, unless this is specifically required by CIE.

If a candidate or other unauthorised person removes a script from the examination room, the Centre must advise CIE of the circumstances of the irregularity in writing. The candidate should be warned that CIE may not accept the script.

3.5.3 Collection of question papers/24 hour security rule

Only the designated Centre staff responsible for the collection of the question papers may take any copy of a question paper from the examination room. The Centre must collect all question papers at the end of the examination and retain them under secure conditions (see 3.1.2) until at least 24 hours have elapsed after the end of the time of examination session specified for each paper by CIE. For example, for an examination held in a morning session, the Centre must hold the question papers under secure conditions until 24 hours after the session finishes at 1 pm.

Centres must fully audit the number of question papers at the end of the examination and verify that this matches the number issued before candidates are released from supervision.

After the 24 hours have elapsed, Centres may return the papers to candidates/Centre staff at their discretion, excluding A Level Computing papers and IGCSE ICT papers. Centres must not return these to candidates.

Centres must keep all empty question paper packets securely until after the issue of results for the session. CIE may require them for investigations into suspected malpractice cases.

3.5.4 Full Centre Supervision and the KEY TIME

At the end of an examination candidates must not leave the examination room until they are instructed to do so by an invigilator. Candidates are considered by CIE to be under examination conditions until they are instructed by the invigilator that they can leave the examination room.

If an examination ends at or after the KEY TIME for the examination session then the candidates can be permitted to leave the examination room once the examination is completed; and no further supervision is required.

If an examination ends before the KEY TIME for the examination session then the candidates can only be permitted to leave the examination room if they are moved to another location where the Centre will keep them under Full Centre Supervision until the KEY TIME.

If a candidate fails to attend a period of Full Centre Supervision after an examination then CIE will consider this as possible malpractice. Centres must advise CIE immediately in such circumstances.

3.5.5 Unused stationery

Centres must collect all unused stationery in the examination room, checking for any loose sheets which candidates may have overlooked, and return them to secure storage.

3.6 After the examination

3.6.1 Bar code labels

(a) Centres are provided with a set of adhesive labels to use on packets of candidates’ answer scripts.



Please note that each of these labels has a unique bar code. CIE will use the bar codes to record automatically the movement of answer script packets between Centres, CIE and its examiners. These labels will enable CIE to locate answer scripts more easily during the essential answer script-checking procedures which take place before CIE issues the results.

(b) CIE provides the labels in timetable date order, with the labels for components for which no specific date is allocated printed at the beginning of the set.

(c) Centres must follow the rules for the use of bar-coded labels:

Invigilators must ensure that the correct label is • attached to each packet of answer scripts.

Where a blank space appears to the left of the • word ‘SPLIT’ on the label, Centres must place all answer scripts for that component in the answer script packet. If the script packet is not large enough for the specified split of scripts, bind all packets of scripts relating to a particular syllabus component together then label the bound package with the relevant barcode label.

Where the code 01, 02 etc., appears to the left • of the word ‘SPLIT’ on the label, Centres should place in the answer script packet only those answer scripts within the range of candidate index numbers shown to the right of the words ‘CANDIDATE NO. RANGE’.

Centres must include any answer scripts for • candidates not appearing on the pre-printed attendance register with the other candidates’ answer scripts, in index number order for the component.

Do not write anything on the bar code.•

Do not cover the bar code with adhesive tape, • other labels or anything that would deface the bar code.

(d) If, for any reason, a Centre does not use bar code labels in the examination session for which they were produced, they must destroy them, and must not, in any circumstances, use them for the identification of answer script packets in future examinations.

(e) If a Centre has not received a relevant bar-coded label and the examination has been completed, the Centre must clearly state on the envelope

the Centre number, the syllabus and component for which they have enclosed answer scripts, the number of answer scripts contained in the envelope and the candidate number range the envelope contains.

3.6.2 Packing of answer scripts

Centres must not combine answer scripts for different components in the same envelope.

Centres must enclose the completed attendance register in each envelope and check that the number of answer scripts enclosed agrees with the number shown on both the attendance register and on the front of the answer script envelope.

Centres must take great care in packing the answer scripts. Wherever possible, Centres must despatch all answer scripts on the day of the examination by the most expedient method. Should this not be possible, the Centre must despatch the answer scripts within one week of the date of the examination by the most expedient method. If Centres have to retain answer scripts overnight they must keep them under secure conditions (as specified in 3.1.2).

Scripts packets must not weigh any more than 15 kilos.Centres must check that:

(a) the component number and name shown on the unique bar-coded label on the answer script envelope agrees with that on the question paper for which answers are enclosed

(b) if all candidates entered for a component are absent, the Centre completes an attendance register for that component and submits it to CIE enclosed in the answer script envelope, which must display the correct bar-coded labels

(c) the envelopes of answer scripts are securely fastened.

Centres must send correspondence, reports and forms (e.g. special consideration forms) separately to CIE and not enclose them with the answer scripts, unless specifically instructed or authorised by CIE to do so.



3.6.3 Despatch of answer scripts

Centres should refer to section 19.3 in the Administrative Guide for Centres. To avoid the loss of all the scripts for an entire syllabus, Centres are advised not to despatch all of the components for the same syllabus in one parcel. CIE recommends that, where practical, Centres use a trackable means of despatch for script packages, such as air freight, a courier company, or registered postal service.

CIE will supply two types of label for Centres to use in the despatch of answer scripts and it is important that Centres use the correct one depending on the method of despatch chosen:

(a) air freight labels with the DHL Global Forwarding address - used only when despatching answer scripts by air freight (see example labels in the Administrative Guide for Centres)

(b) labels with the Cambridge Assessment DC10 address - use for all non-air freight despatches (see example labels in the Administrative Guide for Centres).

The use of these labels will ensure swift and safe transit. Centres must only use them for the despatch of scripts, including artwork and/or school-based assessed work.

The Centre must pay all costs for the despatch of scripts to CIE.

Centres should pack separately the scripts for any candidate who has taken examination whilst suffering from an infectious or contagious disease. The Centre should photocopy the contaminated script and seal the original script in plastic, with a note attached explaining the situation. The Centre must notify CIE in writing of any cases where scripts have been contaminated.

3.6.4 Comments on the examination

CIE is interested in teachers’ comments on all aspects of the examination, including written papers, school-based assessments, practical tests, orals, etc. Centres can use the Comments on the Examination Form, Form ECF001, (a copy of which is in the Administrative Guide for Centres or on the Teacher Support Website) for this purpose. Centres should use a separate copy of this form for comments on the administration of the examination (internal assessment

arrangements, moderation, syllabus content, timetabling, etc.).



NOTICE TO CANDIDATES

This notice is intended to help you. Please read it carefully and do what you are asked.

If there is anything you do not understand, especially which calculator you may use, ask your teacher before the date of your examination.

WARNINGIf you cheat, try to use any unfair practice, or break the rules in any way, you may be disqualified from • all your subjects.

Make sure you know the rules. All points contained in this Notice are rules and you must follow them.You are not permitted to enter for the same syllabus code at two Centres in the same examination session.• Your Centre will advise you of your examination times; and also of any times at which you will be required to attend periods of supervision at the Centre before • or after your examinations.You must be on time for all examinations and periods of required supervision. If you are late for an examination or for a period of required supervision, CIE will • not normally accept your work.You may take into the examination room only the materials and equipment which are allowed. You must • not take into the examination room calculator cases or instruction leaflets, bags, non-transparent pencil cases, personal TVs or computers, electronic or radio communication and/or recording devices including mobile telephones and their cameras, portable music players, or any other material or equipment. Anyone found in possession of any unauthorised material, even if it is switched off and they not intending to use it, will automatically be disqualified from the subject being taken.When held for a period of Centre supervision before or after an examination you are not allowed access to any electronic means of communication such as a • mobile phone or the Internet or any unsupervised contact with persons who have had access to such means of communication. Anyone found in possession of any unauthorised material, even if it is switched off and they are not intending to use it, will automatically be disqualified from the subject being taken.You must not take part in any unfair practice either when preparing coursework, or when taking the examination.• You must not use correcting fluid, correcting pens, highlighter pens or any similar items.• You must not talk, communicate in any way with, seek assistance from, give assistance to, or disturb other candidates once the examination has started.• Smoking is not allowed in the examination room.•

Make sure you attendKnow the dates and times of your examinations and of any periods of Centre supervision which you are required to attend.• Arrive at least 10 minutes before the start of each examination or for any period of required Centre supervision.• If you arrive late for an examination, report to the invigilator running the examination. If you arrive after the examination has ended, you will not normally be • allowed to take it. If you miss, or are late for, a period of required Centre supervision then CIE will not normally accept your work for the related examinations.If you miss an examination without good reason, you will not normally be given a grade in the subject.•

Provide what you needLeave outside the examination room or with the invigilator, anything that you do not need or which is not allowed.• Take into the examination room the pens, pencils, rulers and any instruments that you need for the examination.• You must write in blue or black ink except for multiple-choice papers which you must complete in pencil (B or HB). You may only use coloured pencils or inks • for diagrams, maps, charts etc. You must never use correcting fluid during an examination and you must not use highlighter pens or glue unless they are specifically permitted by the syllabus.You must not borrow anything from another candidate during the examination.•

Calculators, dictionaries and spell-checkersYou may use a calculator, unless you are told that you may not do so, but you must not use a graphical calculator or the calculator function of another device, • such as a mobile phone.If you use a calculator - make sure it works properly• - make sure the battery is working properly - clear anything stored in it prior to the examination - do not bring into the examination room any operating instructions or prepared programs.You must not use a dictionary or computer spell-checker, unless you have been informed before the examinations that you may do so.•

Examination instructionsListen to the invigilator and do what you are asked to do.• Tell the invigilator at once• - if you think you have not been given the right question paper or all the materials listed on the front of the paper - if the question paper is incomplete or badly printed.Read carefully the instructions printed on the question paper and/or on the answer book or answer paper. Do what they ask you to do.• Fill in the details required on the front of your question paper and/or answer book or answer paper before the start of the examination.• Do any rough work on the examination stationery provided. Cross it through and leave it on your desk when you leave.•

Advice and assistanceIf on the day of the examination you feel that your work may be affected by ill health or any other reason, tell the invigilator.• If during the examination you have a problem and are in doubt about what you should do, put up your hand up to attract attention. The invigilator will come and • assist you.You must not ask for, and will not be given, any explanation of the examination questions.•

Leaving the examination roomYou must not leave the examination room until the invigilator tells you to do so. CIE Regulations may require that you attend a period of Centre• supervision after an examination. Failure to attend a period of required Centre supervision will mean that CIE will not accept your work for the related examinations.If you have used more than one answer book and/or loose sheets of answer paper, you must place them in the correct order. Fasten them together before you • leave.When you leave the examination room you • must leave behind the question paper, your answer book or answer paper, rough work and any other (used or unused) materials provided for the examination. You must not attempt to remove or copy the content of the examination question paper or answer scripts in any form or media whatsoever.

YOU MUST NOT DISCUSS OR DISCLOSE BY ANY MEANS THE CONTENTS OF THE PAPER WITH ANY PERSON WHO HAS NOT TAKEN THE EXAMINATION FOR 24 HOURS AFTER TAKING THE EXAMINATION. IF YOU DO SO, YOU WILL AUTOMATICALLY BE DISQUALIFIED FROM THE SUBJECT BEING TAKEN.

A copy of this notice must be displayed inside and outside the examination room.



CHECKLIST FOR INVIGILATORS

This checklist summarises the most essential actions for the invigilation of examinations. Invigilators must be familiar with the current edition of the Handbook for Centres and specifically with Part 3A: Conduct of examinations – General Qualifications and Professional question paper modules, which invigilators should refer to for detailed instructions and guidance.

A Arrangements for the examination room

1. Check that any charts, diagrams, etc., have been cleared from the walls.

2. Check that you have on display the following: (a) Notice to Candidates (b) a clock clearly visible to all candidates (c) a board showing: (i) Centre number (ii) starting time and finishing time of the assessment. 3. Check that you have: (a) a copy of the current Handbook for Centres (b) any subject-specific instructions (c) a seating plan of the assessment.

B Identification of candidates

1. Satisfy yourself about the identity of every candidate in the assessment room.

2. Check documentary evidence presented by private candidates that they are the same persons who made entry for the assessment.

C Before the examination

1. Refer to the front of the question paper for the precise requirements relating to authorised materials, particularly dictionaries and calculators (see F below).

2. Inform candidates that they are now subject to the regulations of the assessment and draw their attention to the Notice to Candidates.

3. Warn candidates that they must hand to you any unauthorised materials and where applicable switch them off.

4. Open the question paper packet in the assessment room. 5. Instruct candidates to complete the details on the front of

the answer paper/booklet and any supplementary sheets. Draw candidates’ attention to the instructions on the front of the question paper.

6. Ensure that details of any erratum notice are brought to the notice of the candidates.

7. Remind candidates to write in blue or black ink. 8. Tell candidates when they may begin and how much time

they have.

D During the examination

1. Complete the attendance register. 2. Refer to the Handbook for Centres, Part 3, if a candidate

arrives late. 3. Be vigilant. Supervise the candidates at all times to prevent

cheating and distractions. 4. Do not give any information to candidates about: (a) suspected errors in the question paper, unless CIE has

issued an erratum notice (b) any question on the paper or the requirements for

answering particular questions.

5. Ensure that no candidate leaves the examination room until at least one hour after the starting time.

6. Ensure that no question paper is removed from the examination room.

7. Ensure that a member of staff is available to accompany any candidate who needs to leave the room temporarily.

8. Refer to the Handbook for Centres in the event of an emergency.

9. Inform candidates when they have five minutes remaining. 10. Instruct candidates to stop writing at the end of the

examination.

E After the examination

1. Check and sign the attendance register. 2. Instruct candidates to check that: (a) they have entered all the required information on their

answer scripts, including supplementary sheets (b) their answers are correctly numbered (c) they have fastened any supplementary sheets in

accordance with the instructions on the question paper or answer book, if appropriate.

3. Collect all question papers, answer scripts and all unused stationery before candidates leave the examination room.

4. Arrange answer scripts in attendance register order. 5. Ensure that answer scripts are kept in a secure place prior

to despatch. 6. Ensure that question paper content is not removed from the

examination room.

F Use of calculators and dictionaries

1. Candidates are permitted to use calculators unless their use is prohibited in the syllabus for the subject.

2. Candidates are not allowed to use dictionaries in the examination, except as specified in the syllabus. Simple translation dictionaries are allowed for some examinations, in accordance with the regulations in the current version of the Handbook for Centres.

G Full Centre Supervision

1. Candidates must be kept under Full Centre Supervision from the KEY TIME shown on the final timetable until they enter their examination. If candidates have been released from an examination then they must be kept under Full Centre Supervision until the KEY TIME is reached.

2. Full Centre Supervision means that the candidates cannot have access to any means of electronic communication including mobile phones and the Internet, or contact with any persons not under Full Centre Supervision. The candidates can however, have access to text books and revision notes and they may communicate with other candidates under Full Centre Supervision.

3. Failure, by a candidate, to comply with the regulations regarding Full Centre Supervision is malpractice and must be reported to CIE.



A brief guide to invigilating Science practical examinations

Practical examinations are not as easy to invigilate as most written examinations because they are held in laboratories. Candidates often have more items on the desk and also need to move around. This can make malpractice harder to spot, so CIE has produced the following guidelines to help you prepare as an invigilator.

1. Familiarise yourself with the checklist for invigilators, which applies to invigilators of both written and practical examinations. Also, ensure you have access to a copy of the confidential instructions for that particular examination and are familiar with it – even if you are not a subject specialist it may have special instructions dealing with the general administration of the examination and other details that are relevant.

2. Before the arrival of the candidates and the start of the examination, look carefully around the room and ensure all posters, diagrams and other items that might aid or distract candidates are removed from the walls.

3. When the candidates arrive, ensure that they have handed in all unauthorised materials. Calculators are permitted but must not be in a case. Candidates must not use correcting fluid. They must switch off and hand in their mobile phones. (For a full list of exclusions see the current edition of the Handbook for Centres.) Remind candidates that they should write in black or blue ink or ballpoint pen – they should only use pencil for graphs and diagrams.

4. Throughout the examination, a subject specialist should be available to help you deal with any technical difficulties or safety issues that may arise – this will usually be the supervisor who was responsible for setting up the examination.

5. During the examination, it is recognised that some movement by candidates and spoken instructions may be necessary, but please ensure that these are essential to the examination and do not compromise the security of the examination. All equipment and chemicals should be arranged to limit as much as possible the need for any movement. Do not let candidates talk to each other.

6. Be constantly vigilant and observant.

7. Move around the laboratory. If you see any unauthorised material, remove it (without disturbing the surrounding candidates). In the unlikely event that there is a serious breach of examination security (e.g. pre-prepared notes are discovered or obvious collusion between candidates), you must inform the Head of Centre. The Centre must inform CIE immediately of any such incident and the incident must be detailed on the supervisor’s report.

8. Invigilators and subject specialists must not comment on any aspect of the candidates’ work, and must not communicate with candidates except for administrative or safety reasons. You must note any assistance you give to a candidate (where permitted by the question paper or confidential instructions) and the candidate may be penalised. You must never assist candidates with either analysis of data or the answers to questions.

9. If a candidate is experiencing difficulties in the examination, communication must be with that candidate only. If there is a general problem that affects all candidates, you may make an announcement, provided that the security of the examination is not compromised. The supervisor must make a note in their report, detailing any such announcement and the reasons for the announcement.

10. If a candidate appears to be having problems with faulty equipment, inform the subject specialist, who will determine if the problem lies with the equipment or the candidate. In the case of faulty equipment it should be replaced or repaired without delay. The supervisor must make a note in their report of any such problems, to be included with the scripts for despatch to CIE.

11. In preparing materials, supervisors should increase the bulk quantity for each substance by 25% so that spare material is available to cover accidental loss. Invigilators may supply more material if requested by candidates, without penalty. The supervisor must report any problems with the supply of material to the candidates on their report.

Finally, a competent subject specialist must complete and sign a copy of the supervisor’s report, including any results required in the confidential instructions. The Centre must include a copy of the report in every packet of scripts sent to CIE. The Centre must produce a separate report for each session and venue.



A brief guide to invigilating IGCSE ICT and AS & A Level Applied ICT practical tests

IT practical tests are not as easy to invigilate as most written examinations, because they are usually held in computer laboratories. Such conditions may make malpractice harder to spot, so CIE has produced the following guidelines to help you prepare as an invigilator.

1. Familiarise yourself with the checklist for invigilators, which applies to invigilators of both written examinations and practical tests. Also, ensure that you have access to a copy of the supervisor instructions sent with the examination materials and the procedures for conducting practical tests. Be familiar with these documents – even if you are not a subject specialist, the special instructions dealing with the administration of the test are relevant.

2. The supervisor, who is responsible for the administration of the test, must be present throughout. The supervisor can act as an invigilator but two invigilators must be present at all times. A teacher who has been responsible for the preparation of candidates must not be the sole invigilator. Access to technical support during the test is strongly recommended.

3. When the candidates arrive, ensure that they have handed in all unauthorised materials. Past test papers and mark schemes are not permitted as reference material during the test.

4. Candidates must not have access during the test to their own electronic files or personal notes, pre-prepared templates or other files. Candidates are not allowed to refer to textbooks or Centre-prepared manuals during the examination. Candidates may use simple translation dictionaries (see also 3.3.5), spell-checkers, software help facilities and manufacturer manuals on the software packages during the practical test. Candidates may use software wizards provided by the original software vendor. You may not give any other help to the candidates during the test, unless there is an equipment failure. The supervisor must record any assistance given to an individual candidate beyond that given to the group as a whole as part of their report, which they must submit to CIE with the candidates’ work.

5. Candidates must not communicate with each other in any way (including the use of email, via the

Internet or an intranet) and Centres must ensure the security of the individual candidates’ files. Centres are strongly advised to consider setting up passwords to control login procedures and to ensure that only authorised access to files is possible. Candidates must not have access to portable storage media, e.g. memory sticks or floppy disks. Invigilators must be constantly vigilant and observant throughout the test.

6. Move around the room. If you see any unauthorised material, remove it. Should any breach of security occur (such as obvious collusion between candidates, e.g. by accessing other candidates’ files on the network or sharing solutions via the Internet), you must inform the Head of Centre and submit a detailed written report to CIE.

7. If a candidate appears to be having problems with faulty equipment, inform the supervisor, who will determine if the fault lies with the equipment or the candidate. If equipment failure occurs with individual computers, you should permit the candidates to move to another machine if necessary. Invigilators are advised to check that candidates do not have access to other candidates’ work e.g. by using secure areas on all machines, or by changing the default settings. If equipment can be restored you may give extra time to the candidates to compensate for time lost while the problem was resolved, as long as the Centre can guarantee the integrity of the test. If equipment failure makes it impossible to continue with the test, (e.g. power has been lost indefinitely, or all the candidate’s work has been lost or corrupted), the Centre must destroy all the candidate’s work and should allow the candidate a second attempt at the test on a different day. This must only be a last resort.

8. To conform with safe working practices in using display screen equipment, it is recommended that Centres allow candidates to take short approved breaks from working at their screens (5–10 minutes every hour). Candidates must not leave the examination room during this time or communicate with other candidates. Such breaks may naturally form part of the working pattern, as candidates study the assessment material or approach the invigilator to receive their printouts.

9. Candidates’ work will take the form of printouts. Centres must not submit other forms of output, e.g. floppy disks, CD-ROM. Each printout must include the candidate’s name, number and Centre number. Candidates must enter this information



before printing. This information must not be hand-written. CIE will not mark any printouts with either hand-written details or no candidate details.

10. Candidates must send all work to the printer during the duration of the test. Printouts may be collated after the test time specified, under supervised conditions. Invigilators will be responsible for collecting the printouts from the printers and giving these to the candidates. Where specified, tasks such as highlighting parts of the printout can be done after the test time specified. You must remind candidates that no printout of a task means that the examiner has no evidence that they completed the task – the examiner cannot award marks if there is no evidence. If candidates produce additional rough copies of printouts, they should neatly cross through these to indicate that they are not the copy to be marked. Only in the event of a printer breakdown may the Centre use its discretion on extending the time specified for the test. The supervisor must record this as part of their report.

11. Invigilators must observe carefully the printing of work by candidates. It is essential that an invigilator gives the printouts to candidates and that candidates do not collect the printouts themselves from the printer. It is advisable to check at this stage that all printouts contain the candidate name, number and Centre number, before you give the candidates their work. Invigilators must make sure that they give candidates only their own printouts.

12. Printers used should preferably be in the same room as the candidates. If printers are in a different room, someone (other than the candidates) should collect printouts and give them to the invigilator – candidates must not collect printouts under any circumstances. At all times it is the responsibility of the invigilator to give printouts to the candidates.

13. There is no requirement to print in colour, unless otherwise instructed. CIE will not give any extra credit to work printed in colour. It is, however, the candidate’s responsibility to ensure that adequate differentiation is present on monochrome printouts (e.g. sectors of a pie chart are distinguishable). If the Centre does not submit colour prints and colour is being tested, a supervisor must witness that colour was used correctly, stating this on the assessment record folder (ARF).

14. At the end of the test, candidates must present the invigilator with the final printouts they wish to submit. Each page of the printout must include the

candidate’s, number and Centre number. Candidates must enter this information before printing. CIE will not accept or mark printouts with either hand-written or no candidate details.

15. Centres must submit each candidate’s work in the appropriate assessment record folder for the respective test. Apart from the candidates’ assessment record folders, the supervisor must submit a Supervisor Report Folder (SRF) including a supervisor worked copy of a past/specimen paper. The SRF must state the nature of any problems encountered, the candidates affected, and the actions taken.

16. After the test, the invigilator must collect all copies of the test papers and the Centre must either destroy them or keep them under secure conditions for future use. Candidates are not permitted to retain a copy of the test, or of any printouts produced during the test, or of any electronic files which form part of the test or have been produced during the test. Centres must keep candidates’ work securely between the end of the test and submission to CIE.



Instructions to invigilators of multiple-choice papers

CIE provides multiple-choice answer sheets (OMR MS4) pre-printed with the syllabus, component, Centre number, and index number of the candidate.

CIE also supplies supplementary answer sheets (OMR MS4 SUP). These are personalised to syllabus, component, and Centre level only. Centres should use them for any additional candidates for whom they have not received fully personalised answer sheets.

A copy of the multiple-choice form in the Administrative Guide for Centres should be used only in cases where very late entry or entry amendments have been made, for examinations for which Centres did not previously have any candidates.

Before the examination

Invigilators must distribute answer sheets before the start of the examination. Invigilators must ask candidates to check the pre-printed details and to sign in the space provided if the information is correct. Invigilators should ask additional candidates to enter their details on the supplementary answer sheets, writing their names in block capitals.

It is the responsibility of the invigilator to ensure that each candidate uses the correct answer sheet.

Invigilators must then remind candidates of the correct method of answering (see instructions on the answer sheet).

Additional candidates

Invigilators must add to the attendance register the names and numbers of all candidates issued with supplementary answer sheets.

Centres must submit an entry form for each candidate for whom they have not made an entry. They must return it separately to the ‘entry section’ of CIE, and not include it with the completed answer sheets.

Absent candidates

For each absent candidate the invigilator must fill in the appropriate lozenge on the answer sheet, using a pencil.

Transferred candidates

The receiving Centre will receive an answer sheet for each transferred candidate.

After the examination

Order of answer sheets

The invigilator must arrange all answer sheets (including those for absent candidates) in candidate number order.

Return of answer sheets

The Centre must despatch all completed answer sheets to CIE on the day of the examination by registered airmail using the multiple-choice envelope provided. The Centre must write on the outside of the envelope the total number of completed answer sheets in the envelope. Do not return the question papers.

Keep answer sheets flat - do not staple or fold them.


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3.7 Preparation for the examination

3.7.1 Receipt of question papers, mark schemes and examination materials

CIE will send question paper packets, mark schemes and examination materials to the Head of Centre in advance of the examination period. The Centre must check these carefully upon receipt and inform CIE immediately of any problems, for example:

(a) if there are any discrepancies between the material received and the despatch note

(b) if the material received does not appear to meet the Centre’s requirements

(c) if the material has been significantly damaged in transit

(d) if there appears to have been any possible breach of security whilst the material was in transit

(e) if the seal of the question paper envelope and mark scheme envelope is not intact or if there is any indication that someone may have been tampered with it

(f) if there is a perceived delay in the delivery of the question papers (e.g. materials held up in transit).

3.7.2 Security of question papers and examination materials

(a) Centres must store question papers and mark schemes in a securely locked room, with access and key-holding restricted to two or three authorised persons. The room should preferably be windowless and on an upper floor. Where windows are not secure, whether internal or external, Centres must fit them with an effective security device such as metal bars or an alarm system. Centres must hold the keys to the secure room in a secure place.

(b) Centres must inform CIE immediately if the security of the question papers or confidential ancillary instructions or materials is put at risk by fire, theft, loss, damage, unauthorised disclosure or any other circumstances.

(c) Centres must not open the packets of question papers and other examination materials until the time appointed for the examination concerned.

(d) Centres must store mark schemes and examination stationery securely at all times, so that no unauthorised person has access to them. CIE provides examination stationery for use in CIE’s examinations only.

(e) If a candidate is entered for CIE examinations at a Centre where a relative is employed, the Head of Centre must ensure that during the examination session the candidate’s relative does not have unaccompanied access to examination materials, either before the examination (e.g. question papers), or after the examination (e.g. answer scripts). If the relative in question is acting as the Centre’s Examinations Officer, then the Centre must make appropriate arrangements to ensure that another person is present for all the examination administration relating to the candidate’s examinations.

3.7.3 Accommodation

3.7.3.1 Examination venue

All candidates must sit for the examination at the Centre, unless the Centre has obtained prior permission from CIE for candidates to take the examination elsewhere.

3.7.3.2 Examination room

Any classroom in which an examination is conducted must provide candidates with appropriate conditions in which to take the examination. It must be an environment in which the candidates feel comfortable and the Centre must pay due attention to such matters as heating, ventilation, lighting and the level of extraneous noise.

3.7.3.3 Display material

No display material (e.g. maps, diagrams, wall charts) which might be helpful to candidates must be visible in the examination room, unless the rubric expressly states that candidates are allowed to use reference

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materials during the examination. Centres must take particular care with those examinations that are held in libraries.

3.7.3.4 Clock

It is helpful for a reliable clock or some other mechanism for displaying the time to be visible to all candidates in the examination room.

3.7.3.5 Centre number and examination start and finish times

The teacher must ensure that the CIE Centre number is noted on all candidates’ work. They must ensure that candidates are aware of the duration of the examination and its start and finish times.

3.7.3.6 Seating arrangements

The seating arrangements must be such as to prevent candidates from overlooking the work of others, intentionally or otherwise, or from being disturbed by other candidates.

Wherever possible, for written examinations:

(a) each candidate must have a separate desk or table of sufficient size to comfortably accommodate question papers

(b) if candidates are not working at individual desks, they must be sufficiently far apart so that other candidates cannot see their work or make contact with them.

3.7.4 Invigilation arrangements

(a) An invigilator, who may be the class teacher, must be in the room to supervise each examination. They must give their whole attention to the proper conduct of the examination and must not perform any additional task (e.g. marking) in the examination room.

(b) When only one invigilator is present, they must be able to summon assistance easily, without leaving the examination room and without disturbing the

candidates.

(c) Centres must keep signed records of the invigilation arrangements for each examination.

3.8 At the beginning of the examination

Centres must ensure that candidates take CIE examinations within the range of dates indicated in the Administrative Guide for the Cambridge International Primary Programme. Centres are permitted to start the examinations at any time within the date range.

CIE reserves the right to visit Centres during the period of examinations to inspect the arrangements made for the security of confidential examination material and for the conduct of the examinations (see 1.3 of the Introduction).

3.8.1 Identification of candidates

Only persons authorised by the Head of Centre are to be allowed in the examination room.

3.8.2 Candidate numbers

The teacher/invigilator must ensure that the correct candidate number (along with the CIE Centre number) is noted on all candidates’ work.

3.8.3 Unauthorised materials

Candidates may take into the examination room only those articles, instruments or materials which are expressly permitted in the rubric of a question paper or in the Administrative Guide for the Cambridge International Primary Programme. Detailed information about examination stationery and materials that candidates require in the examination room is provided on the cover of each question paper.

Candidates must leave unauthorised materials (e.g. calculator cases/instruction leaflets, bags, non-transparent pencil cases, personal TVs or computers, electronic or radio communication and/or recording devices including mobile phones and their



cameras, portable music players, or any other material or equipment) either outside the examination room or with the teacher/invigilator. (They must also switch off all pagers, mobile phones etc.)

If candidates have taken unauthorised materials into the examination room, invigilators must place such materials out of reach of the candidates before the examination commences.

Invigilators must not give rough paper to candidates, as candidates must do all work including rough working on the question paper.

3.8.4 Starting the examination

Before the teacher/invigilator announces that an examination has started they must:

(a) ensure that the candidates are seated comfortably

(b) check that the candidates have all the necessary materials to enable them to complete the examination

(c) open the question paper packets and ensure all candidates have a question paper

(d) draw candidates’ attention to the instructions and information printed on the front of the question paper, and ask them to check that they understand what they are being asked to do

(e) if necessary explain to the candidates what they are being asked to do, being careful not to provide factual help or solutions to the examination questions

(f) inform the candidates of the contents of any erratum notices. The teacher must not give any information to candidates about suspected errors in the question paper except those stated on any erratum notices received

(g) inform candidates that:

(i) they must write their answers clearly

(ii) they must not use correcting fluid/correcting pens

(iii) they must not use highlighters and glue unless the question paper gives instructions to the contrary

(iv) they must do all work (including any rough work)

on the question paper

(v) for Mathematics Paper 3 they are forbidden to use an eraser

(h) remind the candidates that they are forbidden to communicate in any way with, seek assistance from, or give assistance to, another candidate while they are in the examination room

(i) inform the candidates of the time allowed for the examination and announce clearly that they may begin to write their answers.

3.9 During the examination

3.9.1 Attendance registers

CIE will send to Centres attendance registers and instructions for their use before the examination. Centres must complete these documents, for recording the presence of candidates, in accordance with the instructions printed on them.

3.9.2 Supervision of the candidates

Teachers/invigilators must supervise the candidates throughout the whole time the examination is in progress and give complete attention at all times to this duty (see 3.7.4).

3.9.3 Use of calculators and dictionaries

Candidates are only permitted to use calculators for the Cambridge International Primary Achievement Tests in Science and for Mathematics Paper 2.

Candidates are allowed to use simple translation dictionaries in the Cambridge International Primary Achievement Tests in Mathematics and Science but not in English. No other dictionaries are allowed. (‘Simple translation dictionary’ means a dictionary that translates only the word and does not give a translation of the meaning or definition of the word.) The use of electronic dictionaries is not permitted in examinations.


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3.9.4 Late arrival of candidates

A candidate who arrives after the starting time for an examination may be allowed to enter the examination room and to sit the examination. They may be allowed the full time for the examination, but at the discretion of the teacher/invigilator.

3.9.5 Candidates arriving after the examination has finished

A candidate who arrives late, after the other candidates have completed the examination, may be allowed to sit the examination at the discretion of the teacher/invigilator. The teacher/invigilator will need to decide whether the candidate has had any prior knowledge of the question paper, or answers from other candidates, before allowing them to sit the examination.

3.9.6 Special consideration

Where a candidate sits an examination under adverse circumstances and the teacher/invigilator wishes to submit an application for special consideration, Centres must make such applications in accordance with the procedures set out in Part 6.

If a candidate misses an examination due to illness, the teacher/invigilator may allow the candidate to sit the examination upon their return to school, providing that in their judgement the candidate has not had any prior knowledge of the question paper or answers.

3.9.7 Leaving the examination room

Candidates cannot leave the examination room until instructed to do so by the teacher/invigilator. When they have completed the examination they must sit quietly at their desks.

Candidates may not remove any question papers.

3.9.8 Irregular conduct

It is the duty of the Head of Centre to ensure that they report to CIE as soon as possible all cases of irregularity or misconduct in connection with the examination.

The Head of Centre is empowered to expel a candidate from the examination room, but they must only take such action when they feel it to be essential or when the continued presence of a candidate would cause disruption to other candidates.

Any infringement of the regulations may lead to a disqualification of the candidate. The decision on disqualification rests with CIE. (See Part 7.)

3.9.9 Emergencies

The teacher/invigilator must take the following action in the event of an emergency such as a fire alarm or bomb alert:

(a) evacuate the examination room

(b) ensure that all the question papers and answer scripts are left in the examination room (but see (g) below)

(c) ensure that the candidates are supervised as closely as possible whilst they are out of the examination room, so as to ensure there is no collusion

(d) after the candidates have returned to the examination room and before the examination is resumed, indicate on the candidates’ work, where it is feasible to do so, the point at which the interruption occurred

(e) note the time and duration of the interruption

(f) allow the candidates the full working time prescribed for the examination

(g) in the event of there being only a small number of candidates, give consideration to the possibility of taking the candidates to another place, with question papers and scripts, in order to complete the examination.

3.10 At the end of the examination

3.10.1 Finishing the examination

Five minutes before the end of the examination the invigilator must inform the candidates that there are five minutes remaining for the examination.

At the end of the examination, the invigilator must



tell candidates to stop writing and to place their pens/pencils on their desks immediately.

3.10.2 Collection of answer scripts

The teacher/invigilator must ensure that after the examination:

(a) candidates have noted the correct candidate number on all their work and candidates have entered all the required information

(b) they collect all scripts, question papers and unused stationery items before the candidates leave the examination room

(c) they keep all scripts in a secure place prior to marking and despatch to CIE.

3.11 After the examination

Please refer to the Administrative Guide for the Cambridge International Primary Programme for instructions relating to the production of internally-assessed marks and the selection and despatch of sample scripts.


University of Cambridge International Examinations64 | Part 4A: Centre-based assessments – General Qualifications – coursework

Part 4A: Centre-based assessments – General Qualifications – coursework

For regulations and procedures for non-coursework speaking tests (e.g. IGCSE Foreign Language papers), please see part 4B of this Handbook.

4.1 Definition of coursework

Coursework refers to any component specified by a CIE syllabus that is assessed in the Centre, either by the Centre’s teachers or by other local teachers, and moderated by CIE. Examples of such coursework are: projects, folios of essays, field work, art and craft items, design studies, internally set and assessed speaking tests, practical work, assignments and experiments undertaken and assessed during the course. Coursework may include work for which the theme, experiment or parameters of a project have either been set by the teacher, or specified in the syllabus, or chosen by the candidates themselves.

Centres requiring further information regarding the research project option, available in the group award of the AICE Diploma, should order the booklet AICE Diploma – Guide to Research Projects, available from CIE Publications.

4.2 Training and accreditation of teachers for coursework assessment

(a) Centres that make entries via a Parent Organisation will be subject to the requirements of that Parent Organisation. In some cases the Parent Organisation undertakes the training and accreditation of teachers for coursework assessment.

(b) In other cases, in order for a Centre to undertake internal assessment of coursework in a particular subject, at least one teacher of the subject must hold the appropriate certificate or letter of accreditation from CIE. Teachers can obtain the accreditation by successful completion of the requirements of the appropriate distance training pack or coursework training handbooks. Teachers who already have experience in Centre-based assessment may apply to CIE to be accredited without such training by submitting their CV, but such exemption is not given automatically. The accreditation process normally takes between 4 to 6 weeks. Teachers should make applications for accreditation well in advance of the examination session for which they require accreditation.

(c) A teacher who has been accredited by CIE may assess the coursework component in the subject in which they have been trained or exempted from training. A teacher accredited for Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Combined Science, Co-ordinated Sciences or Physical Science may assess the other Sciences that he/she is qualified to teach. A teacher accredited for a foreign language may assess other foreign languages that he/she is qualified to teach.

(d) Accredited teachers may also supervise the work of other teachers for coursework assessment in the subject in which they are accredited or in associated subjects as described in 4.2 (c).

(e) When a Centre enters candidates for examinations which include school-based assessment, they must send the details of accredited teachers to CIE by 15 October of the year prior to the examination (e.g. return completed form by 15 October 2009 for assessments submitted for June or November 2010 examination sessions). The Centre must submit the details together with the estimated entries for the Centre. The electronic estimated entry form will also contain an Accredited Coursework Assessors Form that Centres should use to advise CIE of the details of the accredited teachers who will be marking the candidates’ coursework. A copy of this form is in the Administrative Guide for Centres, which also gives details of which syllabus/components require an accredited teacher.

(f) Private candidates, candidates entering through an Open Centre or candidates entering through a Centre other than the one they are studying at, may not submit coursework unless the Centre making the entry to CIE:

undertakes to oversee the marking of the • coursework

undertakes to specifically ensure that the • points covered by sections 4.5 and 4.12 of this Handbook are adhered to.

4.3 Submitting coursework for more than one syllabus

There is no restriction on the submission of the same coursework for more than one syllabus, unless a restriction is indicated in the syllabus. However, any coursework submitted for more than one syllabus must be relevant to the requirements of each syllabus,

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and must be assessed separately for each syllabus according to the criteria for that syllabus. More than one moderator may require such coursework and it is the Centre’s responsibility to see that it is made available, if necessary by photocopying. (For some syllabuses, such as Design and Technology, photocopies may not be appropriate because of the resulting loss of colour.)

4.4 Outline proposal form

Where an Outline Proposal Form is required, Centres should refer to the details and deadlines given in the relevant syllabus and the notes on the back of the form.

4.5 Authenticating coursework

In submitting coursework marks to CIE, a Centre is deemed to have authenticated the work for which the marks have been accredited as the candidates’ own original work. Coursework must not incorporate corrections made by the teacher.

4.6 Supervising coursework

(a) CIE does not expect candidates to undertake coursework without guidance and continuing supervision from teachers. Teachers may:

(i) assist with the choice of subjects for investigations, models and topics

(ii) indicate sources of information, e.g. organisations or persons who might be able to help, materials, places to visit and references

(iii) advise on the practicability or otherwise of schemes proposed by candidates

(iv) give advice as to length, approach and treatment

(v) treat coursework as an integral part of the course and see that candidates are given, as appropriate, regular class work and/or homework relating to it.

(b) In addition, teachers must:

(i) exercise continuing supervision of work to prevent plagiarism and to monitor progress

(ii) distinguish between deliberate copying and an innocent over-reliance on books or other published materials

(iii) ensure that candidates state their sources

(iv) ensure that the work is completed in accordance with the syllabus requirements and that it can be assessed in accordance with the specified criteria.

(c) CIE requires teachers to record (on the candidate’s Individual Candidate Record Card) full details of the nature of any assistance given to individual candidates beyond that specified in points 4.6 (a) and (b). CIE requires teachers to take this assistance into account in awarding marks for the work.

4.7 Presentation of coursework

(a) Each candidate must present their written coursework on A4 paper, unless stated otherwise in the syllabus.

(b) Candidates may produce their coursework on a word processor or typewriter, unless the regulations for a particular syllabus specifically prohibit doing so.

4.8 Marking coursework

(a) The accredited teacher must award marks for coursework in accordance with the criteria specified in the syllabus and must provide evidence of how they have awarded the marks, using the CIE documentation provided for that syllabus. For most IGCSE, HIGCSE and AICE Half-Credit syllabuses this entails recording the marks awarded on each candidate’s Individual Candidate Record Card and then transferring a summary of the marks of all the candidates in the Centre for that syllabus to the Coursework Assessment Summary Form.

(b) Teachers must apply the marking criteria specified in the syllabus to all pieces of work, without regard to the stage of the candidate’s course at which they were produced.

4.9 Incomplete or extra coursework

In cases where the coursework component of a syllabus specifically requires candidates to produce several distinct pieces of work (e.g. three essays), the Centre should credit a candidate who fails to complete




all parts of the coursework only the marks that they have earned for the work submitted only and should make no compensation unless an application for shortfall in coursework has been made to and been accepted by CIE (see 4.11 and 6.25).

If a candidate provides more than the prescribed number of pieces of coursework, the worst piece(s) should be disregarded in awarding the candidate’s mark, subject always to the satisfaction of the requirements of the syllabus about the nature of the work.

4.10 Failure to complete coursework

The teacher must indicate as absent (‘A’) any candidate who is entered for a coursework component in a syllabus but fails to submit any coursework for it. Such a candidate is not eligible for the award of a grade in that syllabus and will receive a ‘No Result’.

4.11 Requests for special consideration

Where a candidate has a shortfall in coursework due to an unforeseen illness or other misfortune during the period when the coursework was produced, it may, in some subjects, be possible to accept a reduced quantity of coursework without penalty. It will not be possible to give this consideration in every case, e.g. if they have not satisfied the coursework assessment objectives. (See 6.25 (b).)

4.12 Standardising marking within Centres

(a) CIE requires Centres to standardise assessments across different teachers and teaching groups to ensure, for a particular syllabus, that all candidates in the Centre have been judged against the same standards, and to produce a rank order of candidates for the Centre as a whole.

(b) One teacher (who must be a teacher accredited by CIE as stated in 4.2) per Centre per syllabus must take responsibility for the standardisation of the marking of members of staff from that Centre in that syllabus. This teacher must ensure that a valid set of marks is produced for candidates in that syllabus from that Centre.

(c) Standardisation within a Centre is to be achieved by all teachers involved in assessing samples of work coming to an agreement on the marks to be awarded. Marks for some teaching groups may be moved up or down in order to ensure consistency for the whole Centre. Centres must round up any half marks in the final total marks.

4.13 Submission of marks for internally-assessed coursework

Centres must submit marks for internally-assessed coursework to CIE no later than:

30 April for the June examination session 15 October for the October examination session 31 October for the November examination session.

Centres may submit coursework marks using CAMEO to send electronic files (part 1.11 of the Introduction). If Centres submit electronic files of coursework marks to CIE they must use the CIE Direct website to do so. Centres using CAMEO do not need to use MS1 forms (see below), but they must include a printout of the internal marks report from CAMEO along with the sample of work.

Centres should key into CAMEO only the final mark awarded by the Centre to each candidate (or ‘A’ – absent, for a candidate who has submitted no coursework).

If Centres do not use CAMEO to submit final coursework marks, Centres must use the computer printed form MS1 Internal Assessment Mark Sheet. Form MS1 is provided by CIE for recording final coursework marks and consists of three copies on self-copying paper.

Centres must only write on the form the final mark awarded to each candidate by the Centre (or ‘A’ – absent, for a candidate who has submitted no coursework). Centres must complete the MS1 in accordance with the instructions on the back of the form. When completing the form, Centres must ensure that the maximum mark for the component stated on the form is not exceeded and a numeric value, (or A), is given for each candidate and not a grade.

If the candidate numbers on the MS1 form are incorrect, Centres should not use the form.


Centres must contact CIE to inform them of the error. Do not correct the candidate numbers on any pre-printed forms.

CIE will scan the MS1 form on optical mark reader so Centres must not bend, staple, pin or damage them in any other way.

Send the top copy of the MS1 form for each syllabus to CIE in the envelope provided for the purpose. Enclose the second copy of the MS1 form with the sample of coursework (see 4.14.2 (b) below) and the relevant marking documentation. Retain the third copy for reference.

CIE will include in the despatch of pre-printed MS1 forms candidate details for all entries and entry amendments received at CIE by 10 April for the June session and 21 September for the November session. If the Centre made a late entry or entry amendment after these dates, they must add the candidate details to the pre-printed MS1 Form. If there is not sufficient space on the pre-printed form MS1, the Centres must use the Supplementary MS1 Internal Assessment Mark Sheet to record the internally-assessed mark of any additional candidate(s). (A copy of this form is in the Administrative Guide for Centres.) Centres must send a photocopy of the Supplementary MS1 to the moderator with the coursework sample. They must also use a Supplementary MS1 Internal Assessment Mark Sheet in instances where a late entry or an entry amendment results in a Centre having an entry for a syllabus component for which they have not previously had any entries.

4.14 Submission of the sample for moderation

Centres must submit samples of coursework to CIE (via the Parent Organisation if appropriate) for moderation, according to the following criteria and instructions. Failure to provide a sample for moderation will result in CIE not issuing a result for the syllabus.

4.14.1 Criteria for the submission of samples of coursework

(a) In some syllabuses, teachers must select the samples of coursework for submission to CIE. In these cases, the syllabus contains instructions on

how the coursework sample must be selected. In all other cases, CIE will select the candidates whose work must be included in the coursework sample and will communicate the selection to the Centre.

(b) Where CIE selects the candidates for the coursework sample, the number of candidates in the sample will be as follows:

Number of candidates entered for the coursework

component

Number of candidates whose coursework is

required

1–1011–50

51–100101–200

More than 200

all of the candidates101520

10% of the candidates

CIE’s selection of candidates will cover the whole of the mark range. Where there is more than one teacher involved in the marking of the work, the sample will include samples of the marking of each teacher.

(c) For each candidate in the coursework sample, CIE will require all the coursework that contributed to the final mark for that component.

(d) CIE may request further samples of candidates’ work, or the work of an individual candidate. the Centre must despatch these as soon as the request is received.

4.14.2 Instructions for the submission of samples of coursework

(a) Centres must securely package coursework samples and send them using the return labels supplied (code URL003), to arrive at CIE within one week of the internally assessed mark and no later than:

7 May for the June examination session 21 October for the October examination session 7 November for the November examination

session.

(Examples of the return labels URL003 are in the Administrative Guide for Centres.) The Centre must package the work for each syllabus separately, and should obtain a certificate or record of posting for each package of coursework despatched.




The address for receipt of coursework samples is:

Cambridge Assessment DC10 Hill Farm Road Whittlesford Cambridge CB22 4FZ United Kingdom

(b) Each package of coursework must include the second copy of the MS1 form (CIE moderator copy, see 4.13) together with the Individual Candidate Record cards and the Coursework Assessment Summary Forms for that syllabus. If the Centre has submitted marks to CIE as an electronic file, they must submit a signed CAMEO printout of the marks file in place of the second copy of the MS1 form.

(c) Centres must ensure that CDs or cassette tapes used to record oral or music coursework are properly packed and labelled. Centres must use separate CDs or tapes for different examinations.

(d) Coursework submitted to CIE for moderation should, if possible, be in plain thin covers. Centres must not include bulky ring binders with the work sent for moderation. Clearly mark each item of coursework using the coursework identification labels supplied, (see example labels in the Administrative Guide for Centres), with the syllabus name, the syllabus number, the candidate’s name, the candidate’s number and the name and number of the Centre. Do not include materials of value or items that are too large, bulky or fragile to be despatched. Centres must include a note with the sample of coursework to indicate what work they have retained. They must produce full information about the retained work, including photographs taken from several angles. CIE cannot guarantee that the grade awarded on the basis of photographs alone will be the same as that which would have been given to the original had it been submitted.

(e) To assist with the identification of art work, Centres must complete the IGCSE Art & Design 0400 labels (see example labels in the Administrative Guide for Centres) in block capital letters and attach them to the work of each candidate. Place the labels on the top right hand corner of the front of each relevant piece of work/folder.

4.14.3 Coursework moderation of video evidence

Centres are required to provide video evidence of candidates’ performances for a range of subjects. It is the Centre’s responsibility to provide the video evidence in the correct format, which must be either:

full sized DVD that can be played on a standard DVD • playerVHS format (PAL system) that can be played on a • standard VHS player.

Centres that fail to provide the video evidence in the correct format will not be moderated and their candidates will be at risk of not being graded. Teachers must refer to the syllabus for subject-specific details of coursework requirements.

4.15 Retaining coursework evidence

Centres must retain, for at least six weeks after the final results are published, the following materials:

a record of the coursework set• a record of how marks were awarded• the assessed work of all candidates (except that • which the Centre submitted to CIE for moderation)a copy of each Individual Candidate Record Card• a summary of how internal moderation was carried • outa copy of the Coursework Assessment Summary • Form.

If the coursework is ephemeral in nature, teachers must keep sufficient evidence (documentary, photographic, audio taped or videotaped, as appropriate) to support their marking.

4.16 Report on moderation

Each Centre will normally receive a report for each coursework component for which it has entered. The report will indicate the nature of any adjustment to the Centre’s marks. If an adjustment of marks greater than 10 per cent of the maximum marks for the component is necessary, the moderator will write a short explanatory comment for the Centre.


4.17 Dealing with unsatisfactory practice

(a) CIE will provide further guidance to Centres where individual teachers or Centres fail to meet CIE’s requirements for coursework.

(b) Where in CIE’s sole judgement a significant problem has occurred, CIE may revoke the accreditation of a teacher to mark coursework.

4.18 Return of coursework

Coursework submitted to CIE for moderation will normally be returned to Centres at CIE’s expense after results and certificates have been issued. However, CIE may retain items of coursework for research, exhibition, archive or educational purposes. Centres may, at their discretion, return work to the candidates who produced it. Candidates may re-submit coursework if re-taking an examination (see 4.20).

CIE will not be responsible for loss of or damage to coursework submitted for moderation. (See also part 1.15 of the Introduction for ownership of assessed examination material, e.g. examination answer scripts.)

4.19 Carrying forward of IGCSE and GCE O Level internally-assessed marks

Unless the syllabus specifies otherwise, IGCSE and GCE O Level internally-assessed marks may be carried forward once within a 13 month period. A candidate’s coursework mark for a June 2009 session may be carried forward to either the following November 2009 examination session or the following June 2010 examination session only; a coursework mark for a November 2009 examination may be carried forward to the following June 2010 examination session or the following November 2010 session only. Coursework marks obtained prior to the mentioned examination sessions may not be used towards June 2010 and/or November 2010.IGCSE and GCE O Level internally-assessed marks may not be carried forward more than once. If Centres are entering candidates who wish to carry forward IGCSE or GCE O Level internally-assessed marks, then they must enter the carry forward option code

when entering candidates for the examination. Also, Centres must include the candidates’ previous entry details, which will help to locate the previous internally-assessed marks obtained by the candidates.

4.20 Re-use of coursework

It is permissible to re-submit, in whole or in part, coursework submitted by the same candidate in the previous examination session. Any work which is re-submitted must meet the requirements of the syllabus for the year in which it is offered and will be subject to re-assessment. (See also 2.6.)

4.21 Dishonesty and malpractice in coursework

In cases where dishonesty or malpractice in coursework is suspected, Centres must take action in accordance with the regulations given in 7.3 of this Handbook.

4.22 Centre enquiries about coursework

Centres should direct enquires about coursework or the administration of coursework to Customer Services.


University of Cambridge International Examinations70 | Part 4B: Centre-based assessments – General Qualifications – speaking tests (non-coursework)

For regulations and procedures for coursework speaking tests please see Part 4A of this Handbook.

4.23 Definition of a non-coursework speaking test

Non-coursework speaking tests are internally administered and assessed by the Centre’s teachers or other local teachers, then externally moderated by CIE. The format for non-coursework speaking tests is set by CIE and is the same for all candidates. The tests are conducted as a terminal examination within a period of dates specified by CIE (i.e. not over the course of study, as with coursework speaking tests).

The following tests are non-coursework speaking tests:

IGCSE speaking tests for foreign language • examinations – syllabuses 0515, 0519, 0520, 0525, 0530, 0535, 0540, 0543, 0544, 0545, 0546 and 0547

IGCSE second language speaking tests – Paper 5•

IGCSE first language speaking tests – Paper 5•

O Level languages other than English speaking • tests

HIGCSE foreign language speaking tests•

AS/A Level languages other than English speaking • tests.

4.24 Appointment of examiners for non-coursework speaking test

(a) For Centres operating through a Parent Organisation, the Parent Organisation will appoint the examiner and make arrangements for testing candidates.

(b) Centres not operating through a Parent Organisation may select their own teacher/examiner, subject to accreditation requirements (see 4.25). This is normally a teacher from within the languages department, but could be a suitably qualified person independent of the department/Centre. A group of neighbouring Centres might also choose the same examiner. CIE is not responsible for any fees agreed.

Centres are welcome to contact CIE if they are in any doubt about the suitability of a teacher/examiner.

(c) Where a nomination of an oral examiner form is required, (in AS and A Level languages other than English), Centres should refer to the details and deadlines given in the relevant syllabus.

4.25 Training and accreditation of teacher/examiners for non-coursework speaking test assessment

(a) Centres that make entries via a Parent Organisation will be subject to the requirements of that Parent Organisation.

(b) For IGCSE English as a Second Language, the teacher who conducts the tests must have been accredited by CIE. This will usually be through successful completion of a distance training pack. In some cases, CIE may instead grant accreditation on the basis of prior experience of conducting similar tests. For this, Centres should seek permission in the first instance by writing to CIE, enclosing a CV detailing the teachers relevant experience.

(c) Accreditation from CIE is not required to conduct non-coursework speaking tests, except in the case of IGCSE English as a Second Language (see 4.25 (b)).

(d) Distance training packs and training handbooks are available for IGCSE speaking tests. CIE recommends, in the interests of candidates, that teacher/examiners who are new to a syllabus should undergo training before conducting their first speaking tests. CIE reserves the right to insist that teacher/examiners undergo training, should the external moderator judge this to be necessary.

4.26 Estimated entries

CIE despatches material for speaking tests on the basis of estimated entries. Failure to submit estimated entries may result in Centres not having the necessary material to carry out assessments at the specified time.

Part 4B: Centre-based assessments – General Qualifications – speaking tests (non-coursework)

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4.27 Materials for non-coursework speaking tests

Based on the provisional entry details referred to above, Centres will receive the following:

(a) IGCSE foreign and second languages/HIGCSE:

sets of speaking test cards•

sets of teacher’s notes booklets for speaking • tests

blank CDs or cassettes for submitting recordings • of a sample of candidates (unless the syllabus specifies otherwise or an agreement is in place not to send CDs or cassettes).

In addition, at a later date, CIE will send Centres copies of computer-printed mark sheets (MS1) onto which they must transfer the final mark for each candidate from the working mark sheet.

The working mark sheet is provided in the appropriate syllabus booklet and Centres should photocopy it according to requirements.

(b) IGCSE First Language English, 0500/5 and First Language Spanish, 0502/5:

The following materials for the conduct of these speaking tests are in the syllabus booklet for the appropriate year:

component requirements•

mark scheme•

working mark sheet•

administrative guidance.•

No question paper is required. Centres must provide their own CDs or cassette(s) on which to record the sample of candidates for moderation. CIE will provide Centres with the MS1 computer-printed mark sheets onto which they must transfer the final mark for each candidate from the working mark sheet referred to above.

(c) O Level Languages other than English:

reading passages.•

The component requirements, mark scheme, working mark sheet and instructions are in the syllabus for the appropriate year.

(d) AS/A Level languages other than English:

The following materials for the conduct of the AS/A Level languages other than English speaking tests are in the syllabus booklet for the appropriate year:

component requirements•

mark scheme•

working mark sheet•

administrative guidance on the speaking test•

form for the nomination of the oral examiner.•

No question paper is required. Centres must provide their own CDs or cassettes on which to record the sample of candidates for moderation. CIE will provide Centres with the MS1 computer-printed mark sheets onto which they must transfer the final marks for each candidate from the working mark sheet referred to above.

4.28 Special instructions for foreign and second language IGCSE speaking tests

Four working days before the first day of speaking tests at the Centre, the Head of Centre should make available to the head of department or appropriate teacher/examiner the confidential teacher’s notes booklet. Teachers/examiners must ensure sufficient time to familiarise themselves with the materials and procedures. Teachers must not remove materials from the Centre and must store them in secure conditions in accordance with 3.1.2 until after the speaking test period specified on the CIE timetable has passed (even if the Centre has completed its tests before that time).

4.29 Malpractice in non-coursework speaking tests

In submitting speaking test marks to CIE, a Centre is deemed to be making a statement that it has fulfilled CIE’s requirements for the conduct of the speaking test. It is intended that the conversation elements of speaking tests will be lively and spontaneous. CIE will deal with any suspicion of collusion in the conduct of speaking tests (e.g. candidates or teachers using



pre-determined scripts, or rehearsal of role plays where these form a part of the examination) in accordance with CIE’s malpractice procedures.

4.30 Timetabling of non-coursework speaking tests

(a) The speaking tests take place before the main examination period and Centres should consult the timetable for details. Each Centre decides on a convenient period within the specified dates for its speaking tests.

(b) Centres must ensure that testing, once started, is as continuous as possible.

(c) If for some reason a Centre needs to conduct its speaking tests after the stipulated period, it must request in writing permission from CIE to do so.

4.31 Marking of speaking tests (internal assessment)

(a) The teacher/examiner must award marks for speaking tests in accordance with the criteria specified in the mark scheme for the component. Teachers will find this in either the teacher’s notes booklet for syllabuses, where this exists, or in the syllabus for the appropriate year.

(b) Centres must initially assess candidates during the face-to-face interview and not subsequently from any recording made. During the speaking test the teacher/examiner will fill in the marks under the separate headings on the working mark sheet.

(c) The teacher can then transfer the marks to the MS1 computer-printed mark sheet at a later stage.

4.32 Absentee candidates

(a) If any candidate is absent at the time set aside by the Centre for the speaking tests, the Centres should make a request to allow the candidate to be examined at another time within the specified speaking test period.

Arrangements made for any such ‘absentee’ candidates must not delay the despatch of the

sample and mark sheets for moderation for those candidates who have already taken the speaking test at the Centre. However, where an ‘absentee’ candidate will be taking the speaking test at a later date, the Centre must indicate this on the working mark sheet. In addition, the Centre must not mark the candidate as ‘Absent’ on the computer-printed mark sheet, but leave it blank.

Where arrangements are made to examine an ‘absentee’ candidate at a later date, the Centre must record the speaking test on a separate cassette, in addition to the specified sample. As soon as the rescheduled test has taken place, the Centre must despatch the cassette and a copy of the working mark sheet that was submitted with the original sample, and to which they have now added the mark for the previously absent candidate to:

Regulations University of Cambridge International Examinations 1 Hills Road Cambridge CB1 2EU United Kingdom

The Centre must submit the total mark for the speaking test to CIE on a supplementary internal mark sheet.

(b) The teacher/examiner must indicate as absent (‘A’) on both the working and computer-printed mark sheets any candidate who is entered for a speaking component in a syllabus but fails to take the speaking test, and who is not eligible to take the test at a later date as a result of special consideration (see 4.33).

4.33 Failure to complete a non-coursework speaking test

(a) Where the speaking test mark contributes to the overall grade for the syllabus, Centres must ensure that every effort is made to examine absentee candidates (see 4.32 and 4.34), as candidates who do not take the speaking test and who are not eligible for special consideration (see Part 6) will not be awarded a grade in that syllabus and will receive a ‘No Result’.

(b) Where the speaking test does not contribute to the overall grade for the syllabus, candidates who do not attend are still eligible for a grade in the syllabus.



4.34 Requests for special consideration for non-coursework speaking tests

(a) Where CIE has granted approval, the Centre may allow a candidate who has failed to attend for the speaking test to take the test after the main body of candidates at that Centre.

(b) Where a candidate is unavoidably prevented from completing the speaking test requirements of the syllabus, and there is no possibility of them being examined at a later date (see 4.32), CIE will consider a request for special consideration.

(c) CIE will not accept a Centre’s failure to find a suitable examiner as grounds for granting special consideration.

4.35 Standardising of marking within Centres

(a) Normally, a Centre should appoint only one teacher/examiner for each syllabus. Where a Centre wishes to use additional teacher/examiners because it has more than 30 candidates, it must seek permission to do so from CIE by writing to the Product Manager for the appropriate language before the start of each speaking test period.

(b) Where permission is granted for more than one teacher/examiner to conduct and assess speaking tests, CIE requires Centres to standardise assessments across different teachers/examiners to ensure, for a particular syllabus, that all candidates in the Centre have been judged against the same standards, and to produce a rank order of candidates for the Centre as a whole.

(c) One teacher/examiner per Centre per syllabus must take responsibility for the standardisation of the marking of members of staff from that Centre in that syllabus. This person must ensure that a valid set of marks is produced for candidates in that syllabus from that Centre.

(d) Standardisation within a Centre is to be achieved by all teachers/examiners involved in assessing samples of work coming to an agreement on the marks to be awarded. Marks for some teachers/examiners may be moved up or down in order to ensure consistency for the whole Centre.

4.36 Deadlines for submission of marks and samples for non-coursework speaking tests

Marks and samples for non-coursework speaking tests must have arrived at CIE by the date specified in the syllabus/teacher’s notes booklet:

IGCSE first and foreign languages (except First • Language English):

by 15 May for the June examination session by 15 November for the November examination

session

IGCSE First Language English and English as a • Second Language:

by 30 April for the June examination session by 31 October for the November examination

session

Afrikaans as a Second Language:• by 15 November for the November examination

session

HIGCSE Foreign Languages: • by 15 October for the October examination session

AS/A Level languages:• by 7 June for the June examination session by 22 November for the November examination

session

O Level languages: • by 30 November for the November examination

session

(CIE does not supply computer-printed mark sheets for O Level speaking tests, so it is vital that Centres send copies of the completed working mark sheet(s) to reach CIE by this date.)

The computer-printed form MS1, provided by CIE for recording final speaking test marks, consists of three copies on self-copying paper. Centres should write on this form only the final mark awarded by the Centre to each candidate (or ‘A’ – absent, for a candidate who has not taken a speaking test and cannot be tested at a later date within the speaking test period (see 4.32, 4.33 and 4.34)). Centres must complete the MS1 form in accordance with the instructions on the back. When completing the form, Centres must ensure that the maximum mark for the component stated on the form is not exceeded and a numeric value (or A) is given for each candidate (not a grade). If the candidate



numbers on the MS1 are incorrect the Centre must not use it. Centres must contact CIE to inform them of the error. CIE will then change the entries and produce a new MS1. Do not correct the candidate numbers on the pre-printed forms.

This form will be scanned by an optical mark reader, so Centres must not bend, staple, pin or damage the forms in any other way.

Send the top copy of the form MS1 for each syllabus to CIE in the envelope provided for the purpose. Enclose the second copy of the form MS1 with the sample of speaking tests (see 4.37.2 (b)) and the working mark sheet. Retain the third copy for reference.

As an alternative to the submission of the form MS1, Centres may submit Coursework marks in electronic form on floppy disk or CD-ROM. They must create electronic files of marks using CAMEO (see 1.11.5).

4.37 Samples for moderation for non-coursework speaking tests

Centres must submit samples of speaking tests to CIE (via the Parent Organisation if appropriate) for moderation according to the following criteria and instructions.

4.37.1 Recording of the sample for moderation for non-coursework speaking tests

(a) Centres must ensure that speaking tests take place in the best possible conditions. Centres must make arrangements to use a room as far away as possible from playgrounds, recreation areas, bells, noisy classrooms and often-used corridors. In addition there must be a quiet area for candidates who are preparing for the test, supervised if possible, though this is not a requirement. The area must, however, be inaccessible to other pupils.

(b) Centres must check that an efficient cassette recorder (in good working order) is available, with, whenever possible, a separate microphone. They must test the two items in the room where the tests are to be held, to check that they are working.

(c) During the speaking test, teachers/examiners must

take steps to verify that the cassette recorder is recording.

(d) Before despatching CDs or cassettes, teachers/examiners must carry out spot-checks to ensure that all the candidates required for the purpose of the sample have been recorded. If there are any problems with the recordings, the Centre must contact CIE for advice.

4.37.2 Selection of samples for non-coursework speaking tests

(a) IGCSE First Language English (0500) and English as a Second Language (0510)

Unless CIE has agreed special arrangements for sampling with a Centre/Parent Organisation:

(i) If there are 10 or fewer candidates entered for a speaking test component, CIE will require recordings of all the speaking tests.

(ii) If there are more than 10 candidates entered for the speaking test component, CIE will require all the speaking tests that contributed to the final mark for that component for the number of candidates as follows:

Number of candidates entered

Number of candidates whose work is required

11–5051–100101–200

More than 200

101520

10% of the candidates

The accredited teacher responsible for internal standardisation in the Centre for that syllabus must select the candidates, covering the whole mark range with marks spaced as evenly as possible from the top mark to the lowest mark. Where there is more than one teacher involved in the marking of the work, the sample must include approximately equal samples of the marking of each teacher.

(iii) If CIE’s moderator thinks it necessary, CIE will request further samples. The Centre must despatch these as soon as the request is received.



(b) IGCSE languages, (except for syllabuses 0500 and 0510), HIGCSE foreign languages:

(i) If there are 6 or fewer candidates entered for a speaking test component at a Centre, CIE will require recordings of all the speaking tests.

(ii) If there are more than 6 candidates entered for the speaking test component, the teacher/examiner is asked to select and record the tests of 6 candidates, covering as wide a range of ability as possible. The candidates selected should be spread as evenly as possible across the range of marks (2 good, 2 intermediate, 2 weak).

(c) AS & A Level languages other than English:

(i) If there are 6 or fewer candidates entered for a speaking test component at a Centre, CIE will require recordings of all the speaking tests.

(ii) If there are more than 6 candidates entered for the speaking test component, the teacher/examiner is asked to select and record the tests of 6 candidates, covering as wide a range of ability as possible. The candidates selected should be spread as evenly as possible across the range of marks (2 good, 2 intermediate, 2 weak).

4.37.3 Instructions for the submission of speaking test materials

(a) Centres must securely package speaking test samples and send them to arrive at CIE as soon as possible. In any case they must arrive by the latest dates stated in 4.36. The Centre must package the work for each syllabus separately, and must obtain a certificate or record of posting for each package of speaking tests despatched. The address for receipt of samples is:

Cambridge Assessment DC10 Hill Farm Road Whittlesford Cambridge CB22 4FZ United Kingdom

(b) Each package must include the following:

the recordings of the sample candidates•

the working mark sheets for all candidates • entered for that component at the Centre

the second copy of the computer-printed mark • sheet MS1 (CIE moderator copy, see 4.36). If the Centre has submitted marks to CIE as an electronic file, it must submit a signed printout of the marks file in place of the second copy of the MS1 form.

(c) Centres must ensure that CDs or cassette tapes are properly packed and labelled. They must use separate tapes for different examinations. Centres must not, for example, record English and Spanish speaking tests on the same tape.

(d) Centres must clearly mark each CD or cassette (where labels are supplied, Centres must use these) with the syllabus name, the syllabus number, the candidate’s name, candidate’s number and the name and number of the Centre.

4.37.4 Failure to provide a sample for moderation

CIE will not issue a mark for a speaking test component unless the moderation process has been completed.

4.38 Retaining non-coursework speaking test evidence

Centres must retain, for at least six weeks after the results are published, the following materials:

the Centre’s copy of the MS1 computer-printed • mark sheet(s)

a copy of the working mark sheet(s).•

4.39 Report on moderation

For IGCSE, HIGCSE, AS and A Level, CIE will normally send each Centre a report for each speaking test component for which it has entered candidates.



4.40 Dealing with unsatisfactory practice

(a) CIE will provide further guidance to Centres where individual teachers or Centres fail to meet CIE’s requirements for speaking tests.

(b) Where in CIE’s judgement a significant problem has occurred, CIE may require the Centre to find another person to conduct and assess the speaking tests.

4.41 Return of speaking tests

CIE will not return to Centres speaking tests that they have submitted to CIE for moderation.

4.42 Centres’ enquiries about speaking tests

Centres should direct enquiries about speaking tests or the administration of speaking tests to Customer Services.


University of Cambridge International ExaminationsPart 4C: assessments – Cambridge International Diplomas – on-demand assignment-based modules | 77

4.43 Qualifications to which this assessment model applies:

Cambridge International Diploma in Business•

Cambridge International Diploma in Management•

Cambridge International Diploma for Teachers and • Trainers

Cambridge International Diploma in Teaching with • ICT

4.44 Timescales

Generally, Centres can submit batches of candidate assignments to CIE at any time. Assignments that CIE receives by a specific monthly entry deadline given on the Administrative Calendar for On-Demand Modules (see Cambridge International Diplomas Administrative Guide) will be assessed in that assessment session. Assignments that CIE receives later than the entry deadline will be held over until the next assessment session. CIE will issue module results on the date shown for the equivalent assessment session. The dates for the publication of results for each on-demand session are also shown on the Administrative Calendar for On-Demand Modules.

4.45 Assessment model overview

(a) For the Diploma in Management only, the Centre Co-ordinator must submit a completed estimated entry form.

(b) Candidates must produce assignments according to the criteria described in the syllabus. For the Cambridge International Diploma in Management, CIE provides assignment tasks which candidates should use to produce their assignments.

(c) For each completed assignment, CIE requires a student assessment record (SAR). CIE provides SAR forms for this purpose in the syllabus booklet. For the Diploma in Management, CIE requires an assignment cover sheet instead of the SAR. CIE does not require SAR forms for the Diploma in Teaching with ICT or for the Diploma for Teachers and Trainers, where candidates must use the assignment templates.

(d) When the batch of assignments is complete, the Centre should despatch the candidates’ assignments and SAR forms to CIE, together with the appropriate entry form.

(e) CIE will carry out an assessment of the assignments and then issue module results according to the schedule of dates listed on the Administrative Calendar for On-Demand Modules.

4.46 Submission of assignments

The Head of Centre is responsible for ensuring that all staff who supervise candidates’ work for the scheme are aware of current regulations and that they carry out assessments and record-keeping as required.

Where appropriate, tutors are responsible for completing a student assessment record as candidates demonstrate their competence. Failure to provide assignments or student assessment records will automatically result in CIE refusing to issue a certificate. The candidate must repeat any assignments that are lost.

The Centre must ensure that student assessment records have each objective signed and dated, before they send assignments to CIE for marking. CIE will return to Centres any assignments with incomplete or incorrect student assessment records, for them to complete properly before marking.

Centres are required to actively ensure authenticity of work before completing the student assessment records and the declaration of authenticity. Centres will be held responsible if issues of authenticity are not addressed.

In cases where there is doubt about the authenticity of any work submitted to CIE for assessment, CIE reserves the right to undertake appropriate checks, such as telephone or other interviews, to determine whether the work is authentic. Any decisions reached by CIE on matters of authenticity and subsequent action taken will be final. Centres may submit assignments to CIE for assessment at any time.

Part 4C: Centre-based assessments – Cambridge International Diplomas – on-demand assignment-based modules

University of Cambridge International Examinations78 | Part 4C: assessments – Cambridge International Diplomas – on-demand assignment-based modules

4.47 Entries

4.47.1 Entries for assignment-based modules

(a) Centres should use the electronic CID entry forms (CIDentform2010.xls). Information about which module entry codes and option codes to use are in the Cambridge International Diplomas Administrative Guide as well as on the entry form.

(b) Centres must submit module entry files to CIE at the same time they submit assignments, either via the CIE Direct website or by email to [email protected]. If CIE does not receive a module entry file before the deadline, then it will hold assessments over until the next assessment session.

(c) Centres must post assignments in hard copy format to CIE at the same time that they submit the module entry file. Alternatively, they may convert assignments into PDF format and submit them via CIE Direct.

(d) Centres must allocate all candidates a unique candidate identifier (UCI). This is a 12 character alpha/numeric indicator that is unique to an individual candidate. Centres must include the UCI with every module entry made on a candidate’s behalf. Instructions for the creation of the UCI are included in the Cambridge International Diplomas Administrative Guide.

4.47.2 Statements of entry

CIE will issue to Centres statements of entry, showing details of each candidate’s entry. Centres must give each candidate the opportunity to check personal details recorded on the statements. Statements of entry will form the Centre’s record of entries, both before and during the assessment.

4.47.3 Entry fees

With the exception of the Diploma for Teachers and Trainers, CIE will charge an entry fee per module per candidate.

For the Diploma for Teachers and Trainers, CIE requires Centres to register candidates for the award at the start

of the course. CIE will charge a registration fee for the whole award. CIE will charge for module re-sits where applicable.

Following the receipt of assessment entries or other services which attract fees, CIE will sent Centres an invoice for the outstanding balance on their accounts.

4.48 Presentation of assignments

Each assignment submitted for assessment must be the candidate’s own work and must not incorporate corrections by the tutor. Original work must be submitted; photocopied work is not acceptable.

Each candidate’s assignment should, if possible, be on A4 paper. The candidate may produce work on a typewriter or word processor, provided they type it themselves.

For the Diploma in Teaching with ICT and the Diploma for Teachers and Trainers, Centres must submit assignments using the relevant assignment template provided by CIE.

All assignments must include a title and, where relevant, a table of contents and bibliography. Tables of statistics, diagrams, graphs, illustrations, photographs, maps, etc., should be given credit provided they are pertinent to the work and the candidate refers to them in the text, but they must not be submitted as a complete substitute for written text. Candidates must clearly indicate and acknowledge all quotations.

For assessment purposes, candidates must clearly mark their work with their name and UCI, the Centre number and the qualification title and code. Wherever possible, Centres must retain a copy of all candidates’ assignments under secure conditions until CIE has published the results, since CIE may require such copies if work is lost in transit between the Centre and CIE.

Part 4C: Centre-based assessments – Cambridge International Diplomas – on-demand assignment-based modules

University of Cambridge International ExaminationsPart 4D: Centre-based assessments – Cambridge International Diplomas – Centre-assessed modules | 79

4.49 Qualification to which this assessment model applies:

Cambridge ICT Starter Awards.•

4.50 Timescales

The dates for the assessment of candidate assignments and the subsequent submission of samples of work to CIE for moderation are at the discretion of the Centre Co-ordinator. Entries and samples of work that CIE receives by the entry date given on the Administrative Calendar for on-demand modules will be processed according to the session shown. CIE will issue module results on the date shown for the equivalent assessment session. The dates for the publication of results for each ICT assessment session are also published on the Administrative Calendar for On-Demand Modules.

4.51 Assessment model overview

(a) Students are continually assessed by the tutor as they learn the skills at each stage.

(b) At the end of each module the tutor must assess students in an assessment activity that has been devised by the Centre to the criteria specified by CIE, and must complete a learning objectives record sheet. Alternatively, Centres may obtain assessment activities from CIE.

(c) Tutors must sign and date each objective on the learning objective record sheets before the Centre sends samples to CIE for moderation. CIE will return to Centres and samples sent with incomplete or incorrect learning objective record sheets, to be properly completed before moderation.

(d) The tutor must ensure that they keep all required evidence as part of the candidate portfolio.

(e) The tutor will award the grades of Merit, Pass or Fail in each module.

(f) When a group of candidates has each achieved a pass or better in all required modules, the Centre should submit candidate entry information and a sample of work to CIE for moderation.

(g) Moderation samples that CIE receives by a specific entry date given on the Administrative Calendar

for on-demand modules will be assessed in that assessment session. Moderation samples that CIE receives later than the entry date will be held over until the next assessment session.

(h) The ICT starters entry/results form (SITENT2010), provided in the CID administrative support pack, must accompany the moderation sample. All candidates entered on this form must have achieved a pass or better in all of the required modules to satisfy either Stage 1 and/or the full certificate.

(i) The moderation sample must contain candidates’ complete work. Complete work means all modules that are required to satisfy either the award of a stage 1 certificate or a full award certificate. The sample must cover all the modules entered by the Centre and a range of Pass and Merit. If a Centre is submitting samples for more than one level, it must treat each level as a separate sample. The number of candidates’ work to be enclosed in the sample is based on the candidate entry according to the following table:

Number of candidatesentered

Number of candidateswhose work is required

0–1011–50

51–100More than 100

All candidates101520

(j) Failure to provide the appropriate samples for moderation and learning objective record sheets may result in CIE refusing to issue a certificate. Candidates must repeat any assessments that are lost.

(k) If the CIE moderator agrees with the module grades issued by the tutor, CIE will issue statements of results and certificates.

(l) If the moderator disagrees with the module grades issued by the tutor, the moderator may request that the work is re-assessed and a new sample submitted for moderation.

(m) If further samples are requested for moderation, this may result in a delay in the issue of final results and certificates.

Part 4D: Centre-based assessments – Cambridge International Diplomas – Centre-assessed modules

University of Cambridge International Examinations80 | Part 4D: Centre-based assessments – Cambridge International Diplomas – Centre-assessed modules

4.52 Completion of learning objective record sheets

The Head of Centre is responsible for ensuring that all staff supervising candidates’ work for the scheme are aware of current regulations and that they carry out assessments and record-keeping as required.

Where appropriate, tutors are responsible for completing a learning objective record sheet as candidates demonstrate their competence.

Tutors must sign and date each objective on the learning objective record sheets before the Centre sends samples to CIE for moderation. CIE will return to Centres any samples for moderation sent with incomplete or incorrect learning objective record sheets, to be properly completed before marking.

Part 4D: Centre-based assessments – Cambridge International Diplomas – Centre-assessed modules

University of Cambridge International ExaminationsPart 5: Timetable deviations | 81

5.1 Introduction

Timetable clashes occur when, for various reasons, candidates are unable to take papers in the timetabled sessions. Under certain circumstances (e.g. taking different papers timetabled in the same session) Centres may apply for a timetable deviation to overcome the clash. Centres may not make any timetable deviations unless CIE has given written consent.

For each examination period, CIE publishes a final version of the timetable and distributes it to Centres. Centres must ensure that their candidates take CIE examinations in the session shown on the final timetable. The timetable will also contain a KEY TIME during the session at which Centres must fully supervise their candidates.

If an examination is completed before the KEY TIME the Centre must have candidates under Full Centre Supervision until the KEY TIME.

If an examination is started after the KEY TIME then Centres must have candidates under Full Centre Supervision from the KEY TIME until the start time.

Centres cannot allow candidates under Full Centre Supervision any access to any electronic means of communication, including mobile phones or the Internet. Candidates must have no unsupervised contact with anyone who may have or had such means of communication. Centres must use their best endeavours to ensure that all candidates are appropriately supervised.

When notifying candidates of the dates and times of their examinations, Centres must use the final timetable only, not any provisional timetable provided earlier for consultation purposes only.

Centres may allow a candidate who arrives after the starting time for an examination to enter the examination room to sit the examination. However, Centres must warn the candidate that CIE reserves the right not to accept the script. Centres must not allow candidates to leave the examination before the KEY TIME unless they then supervise them until the KEY TIME.

CIE reserves the right to refuse an application for a timetable deviation if it could potentially threaten the security of the question paper.

5.2 Submission of applications for timetable deviations

(a) Centres must complete a separate application form for each syllabus and component. Centres may submit their application either online via CIE Direct or by submitting the Form 9 (INT/E24). Centres must send all applications for timetable deviations to CIE by:

May/June examination session

17 April

October examination session

9 September

November examination session

30 September

Professional Qualifications 6 weeks prior to the date of the assessment

(b) It is the responsibility of the Head of Centre/Parent Organisation to propose the arrangements for resolving a clash of two or more papers. Wherever possible such proposals should enable candidates to take the papers on the day on which they are timetabled. If papers are moved to a date after the paper, no more than 24 hours after the published timetable date, the Centre must guarantee Full Centre Supervision of the candidates during the intervening period.

(c) Candidates are never allowed to take an examination on an earlier day than that scheduled on the timetable.

(d) CIE will only consider timetable deviations for candidates directly involved in any clash. It may make exceptions in cases where it is not possible for the Centre to invigilate the examination in two sittings, or where there is limited examination space or equipment for practical examinations.

(e) If candidates are taking two or more examinations in a session, the Centre may decide the order in which to hold them. The Centre may also give the candidates a supervised break between the papers within the session. The Centre must follow all arrangements for invigilating candidates during and between examinations, and must ensure the security of the question papers.

Any reference to ‘supervision’ requires that a member of Centre staff shall be in the same room

Part 5: Timetable deviations

University of Cambridge International Examinations82 | Part 5: Timetable deviations


as the candidate(s). Centres do not need to notify CIE If they implement this arrangement.

(f) If the total duration of the papers to be taken in one session (either during the morning session or the afternoon session) exceeds 3¾ hours, then the Centre may apply for a timetable deviation. CIE will only consider applications to move a paper to the following day if the total duration of all the papers to be taken on that day exceeds 6 hours.

(g) Being required to sit three or more different subject papers on the same day is not an acceptable reason for a timetable deviation.

(h) If a candidate is entered at two different Centres and is required to sit for examinations in both Centres on the dame day, CIE can arrange to send the second paper to the first Centre so that the papers can be taken consecutively. CIE will only do this in cases where the second Centre is too far away for the candidate to arrive in time to sit the second paper on that day.

5.3 Reasons where CIE may consider a timetable deviation

(a) These include:

A clash between examinations which CIE • has timetabled in the same session (except prohibited syllabus combinations), that exceed the recommended time allowance. Candidates are assumed to be capable of taking exams of up to 6 hours duration in one day.

A clash with an examination of a different • awarding body in a different subject where the recommended number of hours is exceeded.

Circumstances outside the control of the • candidate that prevent him/her taking the examination at the scheduled time (e.g. a hospital appointment, attendance at court as a witness). If the candidate is in court accused of a crime, CIE will postpone any decision until the outcome of the case is known and appropriate documentation from the court is submitted.

Participation in events at an international level.•

The Centre must supervise any candidate attending at a time that is not as scheduled, from the KEY TIME for the examination until the

time they start the examination.

5.4 Unacceptable reasons for a timetable deviation

(a) These include:

A clash with another awarding body’s • examination at the same level and in the same subject, or a subject which has significant overlapping content.

Clashes with a school function or closure.•

Participation in events below international level.•

Holidays (e.g. family holidays, public holidays, • national holidays, religious holidays).

5.5 Additional sessions for practical examinations and listening tests for general qualifications

(a) Centres with insufficient equipment or space for all of their candidates to take a practical examination or listening test at the same time, may arrange one or more additional session. Centres intending to hold additional sessions must submit Form 9 INT/E24 as soon as possible and at least four weeks before the day of the practical examination. It is not necessary to identify the candidates concerned when submitting the form. However, the Centre must make accurate seating plans and attendance records for each session. The Centre must keep these until the publication of results and certificates. For the practical examinations, the Centre must supply copies with the supervisor’s report.

(b) The examination may be taken by several groups in different sessions, with staff supervision to ensure that the security of the examination is maintained. There must be no contact between groups taking examinations in different sessions.

(c) CIE will acknowledge applications either by letter or with the return of Form 9 INT/E24, stamped ‘Board Approved’.

University of Cambridge International ExaminationsPart 5: Timetable deviations | 83

5.6 Supervision arrangements

(a) Supervision should normally be by Centre staff, from the end of one examination and/or session to the beginning of the second examination and/or session. Centres should also undertake this supervision if the candidate(s) travel(s) to an examination from another event or examination. If it is not possible for Centre staff to supervise the candidate(s), CIE is prepared to accept supervision by another responsible adult acceptable to the Centre and the candidate. The Head of Centre must be completely satisfied that such an arrangement will maintain the security of the examination. CIE will hold the Head of Centre responsible if it is subsequently found that there has been a breach of CIE regulations in any way. CIE may take action against the Centre, and that action could potentially include removal of CIE registered Centre status.

(b) The supervisor is required to give the Centre a written guarantee of security. This should confirm that the supervisor will collect candidate(s) from the Centre and deliver them back. The Centre must retain this statement until the results are published, unless CIE requests the statement beforehand.

(c) A member of the Centre’s staff should normally undertake any necessary overnight supervision of a candidate although, in cases where the Centre feels that parental supervision could be guaranteed, CIE may accept this. The person appointed must supervise the candidate from the end of one examination to the start of the other examination, including collection from and delivery to the Centre. The candidate must have no outside contact with anyone taking the examination. This includes telephone calls, faxes, e-mail messages, access to the Internet and contact with visitors. The Head of Centre/Parent Organisation must be completely satisfied that such an arrangement would maintain the security of the examination.

(d) Any infringement of the conditions governing overnight supervision arrangements may lead to the application of penalties and sanctions to the candidate’s examinations.

5.7 Security of examination question papers

(a) Centres must comply with the 24 hour rule for the security of question papers. Candidates may not take any question papers from the examination room. Centres must retain all question papers under secure conditions until at least 24 hours have elapsed from the end of either the official timetabled examination session for each paper or the amended times as applied for under a timetable deviation, whichever time is later. After this time period Centres may, at their discretion, return question papers to candidates.

5.8 Notification of decision to Centre

(a) CIE will communicate its decision about an application for a timetable deviation, as quickly as possible, in writing to the Centre.


University of Cambridge International Examinations84 | Part 6: Access arrangements and special consideration

Part 6: Access arrangements and special consideration

6.1 Introduction

This section is designed to help those Centres and Parent Organisations entering:

candidates who have permanent disabilities •

candidates who suffer from medical conditions.•

CIE recognises that some candidates have coped with the learning demands of a course and can demonstrate attainment in the skills being assessed, but that the standard assessment arrangements may present an unnecessary barrier for them. Such barriers may result from:

a permanent or long-term disability or learning • difficulty

a temporary disability, illness or indisposition•

the immediate circumstances of the assessment.•

CIE makes the provision of access arrangements and special consideration so that candidates are able to receive recognition of their attainment, so long as valid and reliable examinations or assessments can be provided. CIE does not intend such provision to alter the assessment demands of the qualification.

CIE must approve any access arrangements that enable candidates to demonstrate attainment before an examination or assessment.

CIE may give special consideration, to ensure that a candidate who has a temporary illness, injury or indisposition at the time, is given some compensation, after an examination or assessment.

Centres and Parent Organisations should refer to the relevant section as the need arises.

It is the responsibility of the Head of Centre, i.e. the Head/Principal, entering the candidate to ensure that they base any request on behalf of a candidate on firm evidence of a barrier to assessment of attainment.

Once CIE has agreed arrangements the Centre must observe the regulations governing those arrangements. Failure to comply with the regulations may lead to the disqualification of the candidate.

Access arrangements

6.2 Definition of access arrangements

Access arrangements allow candidates with substantial and long-term disabilities access to the examination and the opportunity to demonstrate their attainment. Access arrangements include:

an extra time allowance•

the provision of specially adapted papers•

assistance with reading or writing.•

CIE considers all applications on an individual basis. The Centre or Parent Organisation making the entry must submit the application. CIE will not accept any application from candidates or their parents.

If CIE approves access arrangements, the Head of Centre may use their discretion as to whether the approved arrangements are administered to the candidate.

6.3 Principles governing access arrangements

(a) CIE assesses all candidates according to the same marking criteria, so that grades and certificates have the same validity and do not mislead users of the qualification about the candidate’s attainment.

(b) Access arrangements must not give the candidate an unfair advantage over other candidates.

(c) Access arrangements must not compromise the competence standards being assessed, and will therefore be restricted in certain syllabuses (e.g. a reader cannot be permitted in a specification where reading is the focus of the assessment).

(d) English not being the candidate’s first language is not a valid reason for an application.

(e) Centres should consider the candidate’s usual methods of learning and producing work when making decisions on access arrangements.

(f) Centres should determine access arrangements in relation to the defined needs of individual candidates.

University of Cambridge International ExaminationsPart 6: Access arrangements and special consideration | 85

(g) Centres are responsible for bearing any cost incurred in putting in place any access arrangement for candidates approved by CIE.

6.4 Assessment criteria

(a) CIE will not permit access arrangements if they affect the competence standard being tested.

(b) Centres are advised to consult CIE before starting the course, to ensure that appropriate access arrangements are available for a candidate with a known permanent disability or learning difficulty.

(c) Some types of impairment affect a candidate’s ability to demonstrate one or more objectives of the syllabus. Candidates need to be aware if they are choosing a course where they will not be able to demonstrate attainment, and consequently not be able to gain credit in all parts of the assessment.

In some cases, an alternative route is available within the syllabus and Centres can seek advice on how to approach the subject. If no alternative can be found, because the impairment relates to a fundamental part of the assessment, the candidate may not be able to score enough marks to justify entering for an examination.

If the candidate is fully aware that they will not be able to meet the assessment criteria, but still wishes to enter the course without being assessed, this is at their and the Centre’s discretion.

The Centre should ensure that candidates are aware of the range of subject options open to them and identify those subjects in which they can cover the course and demonstrate attainment across the whole assessment.

(d) In CIE qualifications, each syllabus lists its assessment criteria under the heading ‘Aims and assessment objectives’. These explain what the candidate must know and be able to do in order to achieve the qualification. There are four main objectives:

1. Knowledge 2. Understanding 3. Application of knowledge and understanding 4. Skills

Examples of how assessment criteria would impact on the availability of access arrangements:

1. A candidate with severe cerebral palsy enjoys her Design and Technology course but cannot use her hands. She cannot design or make any realisation independently. As this part of the assessment is a large proportion of the whole qualification, she decides not to enter for this particular subject. The assessment criteria are designing and making, so no adjustment can be made.

2. A candidate with severe dyslexia wants to take English Language and Modern Language examinations but cannot read or write adequately. As the assessment criteria being tested in these subjects include reading and writing, he cannot have an adjustment in the form of a reader in the reading papers. It may not be possible to use a scribe in the writing papers for Modern Languages, unless it is possible for the candidate to dictate the responses letter by letter, including all punctuation. The Centre must decide whether or not to enter him for these subjects on the basis of how much he could complete independently.

3. A candidate with no hands wishes to take Art examinations in painting. Mouth or foot painting might be acceptable, but the candidate cannot do either and wants another person to paint at her instruction. This is not permitted as the assessment criterion is the skill of painting.

6.5 How to apply for access arrangements

(a) Centres must request permission for access arrangements well in advance of the examination – please refer to the deadline dates below. CIE will not guarantee to deal with late applications, especially where modified papers are required.

(b) Centres must make applications on Form AA 10 (PHC) for Temporarily and Permanently Disabled Candidates. (A copy of this form can be found in the Administrative Guide for Centres.) Please ensure that the relevant form is used and that it is completed fully and correctly. CIE cannot guarantee to consider a request without the correct information.

(c) The Centre or Parent Organisation making the entry must submit the application. CIE will not accept




applications from candidates or their parents. If CIE approves access arrangements, the Head of Centre may use their discretion on whether to administer the approved arrangements to the candidate.

(d) Centres must send with all applications supporting medical or psychological evidence written in English. The Centre may provide a translation if necessary.

(e) A friend or relative of the candidate should not write any evidence submitted in support of access arrangement applications. Where this is unavoidable, a senior member of Centre staff must countersign and authorise the evidence. CIE reserves the right to refuse evidence that has been written by a friend or relative of the candidate.

(f) Centres may not grant any access arrangements unless CIE has given written consent, except for emergency access arrangements for temporary disabilities (e.g. sudden injuries such as broken arms or wrists).

(g) If emergency access arrangements are required, Centres should contact CIE in advance, where possible, to obtain advice and approval. It is advisable to telephone CIE rather than to fax or email, so that the CIE can deal with access arrangements application immediately. If permission is given verbally, the Centre must complete Form 10 (PHC), stating the arrangements that were agreed, and send this to CIE together with the candidate’s medical certificate as soon as possible.

(h) If it is not possible to contact CIE before the examination, the Head of Centre may use their discretion on the day of the examination to grant arrangements that will alleviate the problem. However, Centres must ensure that the access arrangements do not interfere with the assessment criteria of the examination. For all cases the Centre must complete Form 10 AA (PHC), stating the arrangements that were agreed, and send this to CIE together with the candidate’s medical certificate as soon as possible.

(i) Please note that Centres must adhere to regulations relating to any access arrangement given. Failure to comply with the regulations may result in a malpractice investigation.

(j) Deadlines for submitting applications for Braille or modified papers:

Cambridge Young Enterprise Examinations

10 January


21 January

September/October examination session

1 May


1 July

On-demand set assessment examination sessions

10 weeks prior to the date of the assessment

(k) Deadlines for submitting applications for all other access arrangements (except emergency applications):

Cambridge Young Enterprise Examinations

10 January


21 February

September/October examination session

12 June


16 August

On-demand set assessment examination sessions

10 weeks prior to the date of the assessment

(l) Please read the notes printed on the back of the application forms before completing them. Submit all forms to CIE by fax or post:


Fax number: +44 1223 553558.


6.6 Guidance on particular disabilities

6.6.1 Candidates with physical disabilities

(a) An additional time allowance of up to 25% will meet the needs of most candidates with physical disabilities. CIE may consider additional extra time in cases of severe physical disability, but please note that too much time can be counter-productive. Centres should seek professional medical advice before requesting extra time over 25%.

(b) Candidates with severe disabilities may require a supervised rest break. The invigilator should stop the timing of the examination and then re-start it when the candidate is able to continue. The candidate must remain under supervision at all times.

(c) If the candidate cannot write independently, the Centre should submit an application to use a scribe. The Centre/Parent Organisation is responsible for selecting an appropriate scribe and the ‘Regulations Governing the Use of a Scribe’ must be observed. The Centre must attach a Scribe Cover Sheet (Form AA (AMA)). (A copy of this form can be found in the Administrative Guide for Centres.)

CIE will not permit the use of a scribe in examinations where writing is part of the assessment criteria – please refer to individual syllabuses for details on examination objectives.

(d) If the candidate normally uses a word processor, the Centre may make an application to request this arrangement for written examinations. The Centre must observe the ‘Regulations Governing the Use of Computers, Word Processors and Electronic Typewriters’. The Centre must attach a copy of CIE’s outcome letter approving the use of a word processor to the examination answer script.

(e) If the candidate can write, but the writing is not easy to read, the Centre/Parent Organisation may wish to provide a transcript. The Centre must observe the ‘Regulations Governing the Production of a Transcript’. The Centre must attach a Transcription Cover Sheet (Form AA (TRA)) to the transcript. (A copy of this form can be found in the Administrative Guide for Centres.)

(f) In oral assessments a Centre should give a candidate who can speak, but only with difficulty, enough time to answer. No formal request for extra time is necessary in this case.

(g) For practical examinations, a practical assistant may help to lift equipment, pour liquids etc. The Centre must not give credit to candidates where a practical assistant has performed this skill, but may credit them with marks for planning, analysis and evaluation. The Centre must observe the ‘Regulations Governing the Use of Practical Assistants’.

6.6.2 Candidates with visual impairment

(a) An additional time allowance of up to 25% will meet the needs of most candidates with a visual impairment. In severe cases, Centres may need to extend this and those using Braille papers may require 100% extra time. Centres must state the amount of time recommended on the application form.

(b) Candidates may also require supervised rest breaks. The invigilator should stop the timing of the examination then re-start it when the candidate is able to continue. The candidate must remain under supervision at all times.

(c) If the candidate cannot read independently or use Braille, the Centre should submit an application to use a reader. The Centre/Parent Organisation is responsible for selecting an appropriate reader and must observe the ‘Regulations Governing the Use of Readers’.

(d) If the candidate cannot write independently, the Centre should submit an application to use a scribe. The Centre/Parent Organisation is responsible for selecting an appropriate scribe and must observe the ‘Regulations Governing the Use of a Scribe’. The Centre must attach Scribe Cover Sheet (Form AA (AMA)) to the script. (A copy of this form is in the Administrative Guide for Centres.) CIE will not permit the use of a scribe in examinations where writing is part of the assessment criteria. Please refer to individual syllabuses for details on examination objectives.

(e) If the candidate normally uses a word processor, or Braille and print machine, the Centre can make an application to request this arrangement for




written examinations. The Centre must observe the ‘Regulations Governing the Use of Computers, Word Processors and Electronic Typewriters’. The Centre must attach a copy of CIE’s outcome letter approving the use of a word processor to the examination answer script.

(f) If the candidate can write but the writing is not easy to read, the Centre/Parent Organisation may wish to provide a transcript. The Centre must observe the ‘Regulations Governing the Production of a Transcript’. The Centre must attach a Transcription Cover Sheet (Form AA (TRA)) to the transcript. (A copy of this form is in the Administrative Guide for Centres.)

(g) For practical examinations, a practical assistant may help to lift equipment, pour liquids etc. Centres must not give credit to candidates where the practical assistant performed this skill, but the Centre may credit the candidate with marks for planning, analysis and evaluation. The Centre must observe ‘Regulations Governing the Use of Practical Assistants’.

(h) CIE can be provide papers in the following formats:

Braille papers – visual information will be • simplified or removed and presented as verbal information. Diagrams may be presented in a tactile form. The application form must indicate whether contracted or un-contracted Braille is required.

Enlarged papers in A3 size – the normal paper • is enlarged to A3 size. (This is not appropriate where scaled diagrams have been used.)

Modified enlarged papers – the paper is • modified so that visual information is simplified. The paper is re-printed in 18 point bold print on A4 sheets. This is the most appropriate paper for candidates with severe impairment or for syllabuses where scaled diagrams may be required.

Modified papers will not have different or easier questions. CIE still expects candidates to answer the same questions at the same level as other candidates not receiving access arrangements.

It is essential that Centres observe the deadlines for submission of applications. If deadlines are not met, CIE will be unable to provide modified papers (see 6.5 (j)).

(i) If candidates present answers in Braille, the

Centre must provide a transcript for the examiner. Centres must use the Transcription Cover Sheet (Form AA (TRA)). (A copy of this form is in the Administrative Guide for Centres.) Centres must observe the ‘Regulations Governing the Production of a Transcript’.

(j) If the visual impairment is colour-blindness, a Centre may allow a candidate to have colour naming, but only if this information is necessary to answer the question and is not part of the skill being tested. For example, in a Science practical examination, they may tell the candidate that a solution has changed in colour, but not given any indication about what such a change in colour represents. For chemistry practical examinations, special notes regarding candidates who are colour blind are in the Confidential Instructions. Centres must report any cases of colour-blindness on the supervisor’s report.

6.6.3 Candidates with hearing impairment

(a) Centres may give candidates with hearing impairment an extra time allowance of up to 25% if their literacy difficulties reduce the speed at which they read and comprehend written questions.

(b) In oral assessments (speaking tests), Centres should give candidates who can speak enough time to answer. If the candidate cannot speak audibly, the Centre may request exemption from the oral assessment.

(c) In language listening tests, access arrangements may be made for candidates with hearing impairments:

they may be allowed to sit the examination in a • separate room

they may be allowed headphones •

they may be allowed a transcript with live • speakers if the normal method of access is lip reading.

Centres should choose whichever method is used with the candidate in their normal classroom preparation.

(d) When applying for access arrangements for hearing impaired candidates in language examinations, Centres should give CIE as much information as


possible about how candidates are being prepared. For listening tests, CIE will send Centres detailed information about the conduct of the test, e.g. how to apply the extra time.

Centres cannot request exemptions for both the oral and the listening test components of a syllabus.

(e) Centres must not use sign language in language examinations.

(f) Invigilators may use sign language to help the candidate read the questions, but not to explain what the question is asking the candidate to do. Candidates must not use sign language to convey answers to written questions in any syllabus, (i.e. candidates must not use sign language to ‘dictate’ answers to a scribe).

(g) CIE can provide papers with a simplified carrier language for certain syllabuses. This means that complex sentences are broken down into simpler sentences. The questions and answers remain the same as for any other candidate and technical vocabulary remains unchanged. Centres may request such papers on Form 10 AA (PHC). (A copy of this form is in the Administrative Guide for Centres.) These papers are not available in language or literature examinations. Please note that the deadline dates for modified papers apply.

It is essential that Centres observe the deadlines for submission of applications. If deadlines are not met, CIE will be unable to provide modified papers.

6.6.4 Candidates with learning disabilities

(a) An Educational Psychologist, a Clinical Psychologist, an Occupational Psychologist or a suitably qualified specialist teacher must assess candidates with learning disabilities.

Their report must accompany the application form and be dated within three years of the examination for which the Centre requires access arrangements. The report should provide up-to-date literacy assessments for candidates with learning disabilities. If a report has been used for IGCSE or GCE O Level, it may also be used for HIGCSE, GCE A Level, GCE AS Level and AICE Half-credit,

if only extra time is required. Centres must submit details of the specialist teacher’s qualification with the report, together with a photocopy of their qualification certificate.

(b) For applications requesting extra time up to 25%, supervised rest breaks, a prompter, separate invigilation, a transcript or a word processor only: CIE will accept a report written by a qualified teacher who has no additional special needs qualification, but has had at least five years working experience in the area of special educational needs. If this option is taken, CIE will require a written statement from the Head of Centre confirming the teacher’s status.

(c) A friend or relative of the candidate should not write evidence submitted in support of an access arrangement application. Where this is unavoidable, a senior member of Centre staff must countersign and authorise the evidence. CIE reserves the right to refuse evidence that a friend or relative of the candidate has written.

(d) An extra time allowance of up to 25% will meet the needs of most candidates.

(e) Candidates with severe learning disabilities may require reading assistance. The Centre/Parent Organisation is responsible for selecting an appropriate reader and must observe the ‘Regulations Governing the Use of Readers’. Readers will not be allowed in examinations where reading is part of the assessment criteria. Readers will not be allowed unless the candidate’s reading skills (accuracy, speed, comprehension) have been measured in a test conducted by an Educational Psychologist, a Clinical Psychologist, an Occupational Psychologist or a suitably qualified teacher and are shown to be below average. ‘Below average’ is classified using a nationally standardised test and does not mean ‘below average standard’ within a particular Centre. It is essential that the Centre conducts tests to determine the candidate’s reading abilities and that these are detailed in the report. If the Centre does not include test results, CIE will reject the application for a reader.

(f) If the candidate normally uses a word processor, the Centre may make an application to request this arrangement for written examinations. The Centre must observe the ‘Regulations Governing the Use of Computers, Word Processors and Electronic Typewriters’. A Centre must attach a copy of CIE’s outcome letter approving the use of a word




processor to the examination answer script.

(g) If the candidate can write but the writing is not easy to read, the Centre/Parent Organisation may wish to provide a transcript. If the transcript is requested in isolation, and no other arrangements (e.g. extra time) are required, it is not necessary for the Centre to provide supporting evidence with the application form. However, the Centre must request permission using the Access Arrangements Application Form 10. The Centre must observe ‘The Regulations Governing the Production of a Transcript’. The Centre must attach a Transcription Cover Sheet (Form AA (TRA)) to the transcript. (A copy of this form is in the Administrative Guide for Centres).

(h) In exceptional cases, the Centre/Parent Organisation may wish to request permission to allow a scribe to write for the candidate. The Centre must send with the application form evidence of the candidate’s work both with and without the use of a scribe. The Centre must state clearly how long each piece of work took to complete. The scribe will not be allowed in examinations where the assessment criteria include writing. If writing is the focus of the assessment, CIE will only consider a scribe if the candidate can dictate all grammar and punctuation and the words letter by letter. Where this has been done, the Centre must make a note of it on the scribe cover sheet. A scribe is not automatically permitted to act as a reader for the candidate unless CIE has given prior permission that the candidate may have the use of a reader. The Centre must observe the ‘Regulations Governing the Use of a Scribe’. The Centre must attach a Scribe Cover Sheet (Form AA (AMA)) to the script.

(i) If the candidate has a neurological or cognitive disability, the Centre/Parent Organisation may wish to request permission to allow a prompter. The Centre must observe the ‘Regulations Governing the Use of Prompters’.

6.7 Regulations governing the use of extra time

(a) Centres must submit an application prior to the candidate’s first examination, using an Access Arrangements Form 10, together with appropriate evidence of need.

(b) Centres must obtain permission for the use of extra time from CIE prior to the examination or at the

commencement of coursework.

(c) CIE may allow additional time in timed components in most subjects. CIE will not permit extra time in an examination component where performance of a task in a limited time is an assessment objective, or where a candidate’s ability to demonstrate attainment in a subject is not affected by his or her special assessment needs.

(d) An additional time allowance of up to 25% should meet the needs of most candidates. Centres should note that the amount of additional time granted must reflect the extent to which the completion of the examination is affected by the candidate’s condition.

(e) Candidates eligible for additional time include those with permanent or temporary physical disabilities and those with a learning difficulty.

(f) CIE may give prior approval for an additional time allowance of more than 25% only in exceptional cases. By ‘exceptional cases’ it is understood that a candidate:

has multiple disabilities•

has very severe physical disability or illness•

is visually impaired and/or needs to use Braille • papers

is normally permitted a reader but the syllabus • in question is one where readers cannot be permitted.

(g) Please note that prolonging the examination can be damaging to a candidate’s condition, so a Centre should seek medical advice before applying for an additional time allowance. CIE cannot accept responsibility for any ill-effects caused by access arrangements requested by the Centre.

Please note that Centres must adhere to the regulations relating to any arrangement given. Failure to comply with the regulations may result in a malpractice investigation.

6.8 Regulations governing the use of readers

(a) The Centre must submit an application prior to


the candidate’s first examination, using an Access Arrangements Form 10 together with appropriate evidence of need.

(b) The Centre must obtain permission for the use of a reader from CIE prior to the examination or at the commencement of coursework.

(c) CIE will allow a reader in certain subjects where a candidate has a more significant impairment. For visually impaired candidate, this means:

those who cannot read a Braille/enlarged paper • independently

those whose impairment is a result of a • temporary injury.

(d) For candidates with other types of disability, impairment, more significant impairment, where the candidate’s reading skills (accuracy, speed, comprehension) have been measured in a test conducted by an Educational Psychologist, a Clinical Psychologist, an Occupational Psychologist or a specialist teacher and are in the below average range. ‘Below average’ is a technical definition which means one deviation below the mean on an up-to-date, nationally standardised test. It does not mean ‘below average standard’ in a particular Centre.

(e) CIE will not allow a reader if the request is based on English not being the candidate’s first language.

(f) The provision of a reader should reflect the candidate’s normal way of working, except in cases where temporary injury causes the need for a reader.

(g) A reader is a responsible adult who reads the questions to the candidate. This may involve reading the whole paper to the candidate or only some words that the candidate requests.

(h) A reader is not a scribe but the same person may act as both reader and scribe as long as CIE has given permission for both arrangements.

(i) CIE will not allow a reader in those sections of papers that test reading. CIE may instead grant an additional time allowance to a candidate who would normally be eligible for a reader but is not permitted this arrangement in certain examinations.

(j) The reader is responsible to the Head of Centre/Examinations Officer and must be a person acceptable to the Head of Centre as well as capable

of reading the material involved. A reader should not normally be the candidate’s own subject teacher and must not be a relative, friend or peer of the candidate.

(k) The Centre is responsible for ensuring that, if a candidate and reader are not accommodated separately, other candidates cannot overhear what the reader is saying and are not disturbed by their presence. If the candidate and reader are accommodated separately, they will require a separate invigilator.

(l) The use of a reader must not give the candidate an unfair advantage or disadvantage.

(m) The reader must only read the instructions and question on the question paper(s) and must not explain or clarify. In some cases the understanding of the written word may be the skill being examined, e.g. in language examinations (including English).

(n) The reader must not advise the candidate which question to answer, when to move on to the next question, or in which order to answer the questions.

(o) The reader must not decode symbols and unit abbreviations. For example do not read 22 as ‘two squared’ but simply point to the function since part of the assessment is recognising what the superscript 2 means. Similarly, if the symbol > is printed, do not read it as ‘greater than’ but simply point to it.

(p) The reader may read numbers printed in figures as words. For example they should read 252 as ‘two hundred and fifty two’ but at the point of reading the number they should also point to it on the question paper. An exception would be when the question is asking for a number to be written in words. (e.g. ‘Write the number 3675 in words’).

(q) The reader may read back, when requested, what has been written in the answer.

(r) The reader may, if requested, give the spelling of a word which appears on the paper. Apart from this they must not give spellings.

(s) The reader may enable a visually impaired candidate to identify diagrams, graphs and tables but must not give factual information or offer any suggestions, other than to give information which would be available on the paper for sighted candidates.

(t) The reader must abide by the regulations, since failure to do so could lead to the disqualification of




the candidate.

(u) Centres whose candidates are not permitted a reader may wish to accommodate candidates separately so that they may read aloud to themselves, particularly where this is their normal way of working.

(v) CIE will permit a computer reader if the candidate is eligible for a reader. Centres must also request early opening so that they can scan the papers into the software. The software must not decode or interpret the paper. CIE will not permit a computer reader in sections of papers testing reading.

(w) Readers for the visually impaired:

must read, as often as requested, the questions • and the answers already recorded

must, if asked, give information regarding time • elapsed and remaining

are permitted to help a candidate using tactile • maps, diagrams, graphs and tables to obtain the information which the print/amended print copy would give to a sighted candidate

must, if requested, give the spelling of a word • which occurs in the question paper or in the coursework material – otherwise they must not give spellings

must be prepared for periods of inactivity during • an examination

must immediately refer any problems in • communication during an examination to the invigilator. If in doubt always ask the invigilator.

(x) Where a temporary injury at the time of the examination causes the need for a reader the Centre must, if possible, contact CIE before the examination. If the Centre cannot contact CIE, the Head of Centre may use their discretion on the day of the examination to grant arrangements that will alleviate the problem. However, Centres must ensure that the access arrangements do not interfere with the assessment criteria of the examination in question. For all cases, the Centre must complete Form 10 AA (PHC), stating the arrangements that were given and send this to CIE as soon as possible together with the candidate’s medical certificate.

Please note that Centres must adhere to the regulations relating to any arrangement given.

Failure to comply with the regulations may result in a malpractice investigation.

6.9 Regulations governing the use of scribes

(a) The Centre must submit an application prior to the candidate’s first examination, using an Access Arrangements Form 10 together with appropriate evidence of need.

(b) The Centre must obtain permission for the use of a scribe from CIE prior to the examination or at the commencement of coursework.

(c) A scribe is a responsible adult who, in coursework and/or in examinations but not in orals, writes down or word processes a candidate’s dictated answers to the questions. If a candidate dictates answers on to a tape, the Centre must produce a transcript. Candidates must respond in English, which is the medium of communication for CIE written examinations. The use of any other language could advantage or disadvantage a candidate.

(d) Candidates are eligible to use a scribe if they suffer from long-term or temporary disabilities that prevent them from communicating by any other means. If writing is a skill which is being tested and the use of a scribe could modify the requirements of the subject being examined, the candidate must dictate all punctuation in their responses. The Centre must describe in full on the cover sheet all assistance provided to the candidate by the scribe, including help with spelling. However, it will not be possible to use a scribe in certain language syllabuses where it is not possible to dictate responses.

(e) A scribe is not a reader, but the same person may act as both scribe and reader as long as CIE has given permission for both arrangements.

(f) CIE will allow a scribe in certain subjects when a candidate’s impairment has a significant effect. For visually impaired candidates, this means those who cannot record their answer independently though handwriting, touch typing, Braille input or other appropriate means.

Centres should only request scribes for candidates who cannot produce written communication by any other means, e.g. word processing. For examination purposes, this means:


candidates whose spelling accuracy score is in • the below average category

candidates whose free writing cannot be read • by others, is grammatically incomprehensible or is produced so slowly that answers cannot be fully recorded, even with the extra time allowed

candidates whose handwriting speed (words • per minute) is in the below average range for their age

candidates with a permanent physical disability • or recent injury who are unable to write.

(g) The scribe is responsible to the Head of Centre/Examinations Officer and must be a person acceptable to the Head of Centre, who is capable of recording the material involved. A scribe should not normally be the candidate’s own subject teacher and must not be a relative, friend or peer of the candidate.

(h) The Centre is responsible for ensuring that a candidate dictating to a scribe cannot be overheard by, or distract, other candidates. If the candidate and scribe are accommodated separately, they will require a separate invigilator.

(i) The following conditions apply to the use of a scribe:

the scribe must write down or word process • accurately what the candidate has said (except in an examination requiring word processing, in which case CIE will not permit a scribe)

the scribe may, at the request of the candidate, • read back to the candidate part of what has been written, but must make no comment about any part of the answer given

the scribe must draw or add to maps, diagrams • and graphs strictly in accordance with the candidate’s instructions, unless the candidate is taking a design paper, in which case CIE will only permit a scribe to assist with written parts of the paper

the scribe must abide by the regulations, since • failure to do so could lead to the disqualification of the candidate

the scribe must write or word process a • correction on a typescript or Braille sheet, if requested to do so by the candidate

the scribe must immediately refer any problems • in communication during the examination to the

invigilator

the scribe must not give factual help to the • candidate or indicate when the answer is complete

the scribe must not advise the candidate about • which questions to do, when to move on to the next question, or about the order in which to answer the questions

the scribe must not expect to write throughout • the examination if supervised rest breaks are permitted.

(j) The provision of a scribe should reflect the candidate’s normal way of working, except in cases where temporary injury gives rise to the need for a scribe, e.g. a broken arm.

(k) The Centre must attach a Scribe Cover Sheet (Form 13) to each script. The cover sheet must indicate whether graphs and diagrams were completed by the candidate or by the scribe. The cover sheet must be signed by the scribe and countersigned by the Head of Centre or the Examinations Officer. The Centre must also attach a copy of CIE’s letter of agreement to the use of a scribe.

(l) CIE will not allow a scribe in subjects testing writing, such as languages writing papers, unless the candidate can dictate the words letter by letter. The candidate’s dictation may be taped. This will help the candidate to get the flow of the respective language. When the candidate has finished dictating his/her response the tape may be re-run, enabling the candidate to give the exact spellings of the words dictated. In such circumstances, the Centre may wish to allow the candidate the extra time of up to 25%.

(m) In language writing tests, candidates are marked for the quality of their language, which covers not only the range and complexity of the language, but also the accuracy of the language. It is therefore essential for the words to be spelt out in such examinations. Similarly, in language listening and reading tests, marks are awarded for comprehension. Sometimes the spelling of a word in a language can indicate a particular tense and this can be of significant importance in the marking process.

(n) In other subjects testing written communication skills, including English, CIE will allow a scribe.




In such cases CIE will assess the candidate only on those aspects of written communication which they can demonstrate independently, such as the use of language, or effective and grammatical presentation. If separate marks are awarded in an examination for spelling and punctuation, these cannot be credited to a candidate using a scribe. CIE may award marks for punctuation if this is dictated, and if the Centre notes this fact on the scribe cover sheet.

(o) Where a temporary injury at the time of the examination gives rise to the need for a scribe, the Centre must contact CIE before the examination, if possible. If the Centre cannot contact CIE, the Head of Centre may use their discretion on the day of the examination to grant arrangements that will alleviate the problem. However, Centres must ensure that the access arrangements do not interfere with the assessment criteria of the examination in question. For all cases the Centre must complete Form 10 AA (PHC), stating the arrangements that were given and send this to CIE as soon as possible, together with the candidate’s medical certificate.

(p) The following computer software can be used:

software which produces a hard copy of the • candidate’s dictated speech

software which produces speech can be used to • dictate to a scribe

software which produces hard copy with • predictive text when the candidate uses a word processor

screen readers which read back a candidate’s • typed script may be used instead of a scribe, but under scribe regulations.

Please note that Centres must adhere to regulations relating to any arrangement given. Failure to comply with the regulations may result in a malpractice investigation.

Example of how access arrangements for scribes would apply:

1. A candidate with severe cerebral palsy has no use of his hands. He cannot use speech recognition software because his speech is indistinct. It is too difficult for him to spell out each word letter by letter. He is permitted a scribe in all subjects except language writing papers, where writing in the language is being tested.

2. A candidate with severe dyspraxia cannot use a

word processor because she has poor motor skills. She can dictate words in her chosen language examination letter by letter. She is permitted a scribe, but must dictate in the language by spelling out words letter by letter. In other subjects, she is permitted simply to dictate without spelling out the words, unless they are uncommon ones. Her marks are credited for those skills she has demonstrated.

6.10 Regulations governing the use of word processors, computers and electronic typewriters

(a) The Centre must submit an application prior to the candidate’s first examination, using an Access Arrangement Form 10 together with appropriate evidence of need.

(b) The Centre must obtain permission for the use of a word processor, computer or an electronic typewriter from CIE prior to the examination or at the commencement of coursework. Candidates can normally complete coursework on word processors unless prohibited by the specification.

(c) Where CIE has approved the use of a word processor, marks will be awarded based on the positive achievement demonstrated by the candidate. In order to ensure the fair application of mark schemes, CIE may, in some cases, ask Centres/Parent Organisations to supply additional information concerning the means the candidate used to answer particular examination questions.

(d) In the case of coursework for General Qualifications, the Centre must give credit according to the assessment criteria for the syllabus. Where the use of a computer means that the candidate cannot demonstrate certain skills, the Centre must not give credit for the skills concerned. CIE may require a Centre to submit coursework produced on a computer for inspection by a moderator.

(e) It is the attainment of the candidate that must be assessed, so the use of the computer must not result in a misleading assessment of that attainment or confer an unfair advantage over other candidates.

(f) Candidates who are able to produce work for assessment by handwriting or drawing are expected to do so. Candidates must only use a word processor if a disability/learning difficulty


impairs their handwritten communication, or if their handwriting is illegible so that they cannot present answers in the usual way. The use of a word processor must reflect the candidate’s normal method of producing written work.

(g) Before choosing a syllabus for a candidate who uses a computer, the Centre should consider whether the candidate can fully meet the assessment objectives if the answers are presented in such a way. Some syllabuses may be designed to test particular skills (e.g. drawing by hand), which the candidate cannot demonstrate if a computer is used. If there is any doubt the Centre should consult CIE. It is in the candidate’s best interest to establish at an early stage if they may use a word processor.

(h) Word processors must be used as a typewriter, not as a database, although standard formatting software is acceptable. They must not have predictive text software or automatic spell checking, grammatical checking or thesaurus, or give the candidate access to other applications (such as calculators, spreadsheets etc.). They must not include graphic packages or computer-aided design software unless CIE has given permission to use this.

(i) CIE will determine what effect, if any, the use of specific software may have on its ability to assess the candidate fairly in each subject. CIE reserves the right to seek independent advice concerning the operation of computers and software used by candidates, in order to decide what access arrangements the Centre should make.

(j) A word processor must not be connected to the Internet or any other means of communication.

(k) The Centre/candidate must clear the word processor of any previously stored data. The word processor must be in good working order and must be connected to mains electricity. It must also be connected to a printer so that a script can be printed off. Printing may be done after the examination is over, not during the extra time. The candidate should be present for the printing to verify that the work printed is his or her own. Frequent saving of work is strongly recommended. Where it is available, candidates can use an auto-save facility.

(l) The use of a word processor must reflect the candidate’s normal method of producing written work.

(m) Centres must accommodate candidates using word

processors in such a way that other candidates are not disturbed and cannot read the screen. Where candidates using a word processor are accommodated separately, they will require a separate invigilator.

(n) Centres must attach word processed scripts to any answer booklet containing some of the answers.

(o) Candidates must use word processors to produce scripts under secure conditions, otherwise they may be refused.

(p) Word processors must not include voice-activated software unless the candidate has permission to use a scribe and/or relevant software.

(q) A third party must not use a word processor on the candidate’s behalf unless the candidate has permission to use a scribe.

(r) The Centre must attach a copy of CIE’s outcome letter giving approval for the arrangement to each script where the word processor was used.


Example of how access arrangements for a word processor would apply:

1. A candidate taking a Design paper wants to use a word processor. Most of the paper involves drawing original designs by hand. CIE does not allow computer-aided design packages in this particular paper. The word processor is refused.

2. A candidate who cannot write legibly because she has severe dyslexia applies to use a word processor in examinations. It is her normal means of producing written work because her teachers cannot read her writing. She is very proficient on the machine. CIE allows her to use a word processor.

6.11 Regulations governing the production of a transcript





(b) The Centre must obtain permission for the use of a transcript from CIE prior to the examination or at the commencement of coursework.

(c) The Centre may submit a transcript where a candidate’s handwriting is illegible or so difficult to read that it would be beneficial for an examiner to be able to refer to a transcript for clarification.

(d) The regulations apply equally to the transcription of a candidate’s answers in Braille.

(e) A transcript is a copy of the candidate’s script which is made after the examination has taken place and without the participation of the candidate.

(f) A transcript may be a full copy written on a spare answer booklet (Braille) or a partial copy where only certain words need clarification. In this case, the Centre must photocopy the original script and write the words clearly above the candidate’s writing (but not in red, green or purple ink or pencil). It may be helpful to enlarge the photocopy to A3 size.

(g) The Centre may produce a transcript that is handwritten, typed or word processed.

(h) The Centre must produce a transcript immediately after the examination, under secure conditions. The candidate must not be involved in the production of the transcript.

(i) A member of the Centre’s staff who is familiar with the candidate’s handwriting or is fully competent in the Braille code for the subject concerned must produce the transcript.

(j) The Centre must complete a copy of the transcript cover sheet and attach it to the candidate’s script, together with a copy of CIE’s letter of agreement. The teacher preparing the transcript must sign the cover sheet and a person acting on behalf of the Head of Centre/Parent Organisation must counter-sign it. The Centre must also attach a cover sheet to any coursework/portfolio work transcribed.

(k) The transcript must be an exact word-for-word copy of the candidate’s script. Its purpose is to produce a legible version of what the candidate has written. Where a candidate has spelt a non-technical word incorrectly the transcriber may correct it in the transcript, but must not insert or omit any words, or alter their order. The transcribe must not correct technical terms.

(l) If the Centre considers that some interpretation is necessary, they should discuss this with CIE well

in advance of the examination. Centres should limit such interpretation to the correct spelling of individual words or, in exceptional circumstances, some re-phrasing, rather than trying to re-interpret what the candidate intended to write. The Centre should be prepared to supply samples of the candidate’s usual written work.

(m) In language examinations, the transcript must be a verbatim copy of the original script. The transcript must include any errors, including those of spelling, punctuation and grammar, as given by the candidate.

(n) The production of the transcript must not delay the despatch of scripts to the examiner. Centres must not send any additional information to the examiner.

(o) For those candidates whose difficulties are so significant that the Centre cannot produce a transcript, please see the regulations on the use of a scribe.


Example of how access arrangements for a transcript would apply:

1. A candidate with severe dyslexia writes in a very cramped style which is difficult for a stranger to read. His teachers are familiar with his writing. CIE permits one of them, not his own subject teacher, to write a full transcript in a clean answer booklet which the Centre sends to the examiner with the original script.

2. A candidate writes some words illegibly. The Centre makes a photocopy of the script and writes in the necessary words clearly over the top of the candidate’s writing, but only on the photocopy.

6.12 Regulations governing the use of a practical assistant


(b) The Centre must obtain permission from CIE for the use of a practical assistant prior to the examination or at the commencement of coursework.


(c) A practical assistant is an aide in practical assessments who will:

ensure a candidate’s safety•

transmit visual observations at the candidate’s • instructions

carry out some or all of the manual tasks • contributing to the practical examination, at the candidate’s instructions.

Candidates may be eligible to use a practical assistant if they suffer from disabilities or indispositions which prevent them from carrying out the manual tasks themselves. Practical assistants must never give assistance with analysis of data or the answers to questions.

(d) Before CIE can consider allowing a practical assistant the Centre must seek advice at the beginning of the two year course about whether or not it will affect the assessment criteria.

(e) The use of a practical assistant must not give the candidate and unfair advantage or disadvantage. The practical assistant is used to enable the candidate show their knowledge, understanding and skills.

(f) A practical assistant is a responsible adult who, in coursework and/or in an examination, carries out practical tasks at the instruction of the candidate. In an examination this might include holding a ruler or turning the pages of the script. In practical assessments, the practical assistant might pour liquids, weigh solids or hold equipment for the candidate.

(g) A practical assistant must ensure the safety of the candidate and those around them.

(h) A practical assistant is not a reader or scribe, but the same person may act as a reader, scribe and practical assistant as long as CIE has given permission for all three arrangements.

(i) CIE will allow a practical assistant in certain subjects when a candidate’s impairment has a significant adverse effect, and prevents them from performing practical tasks independently. This might be because their manual dexterity or physical co-ordination are at levels below what is normal for most people.

(k) CIE will not allow a practical assistant in subjects testing design, or artistic skills, (e.g. Music, Art, Design and Technology, IT keyboarding or word

processing), where the practical skill itself is the focus of the assessment. Where minimal assistance only is required, please contact CIE.

(l) In practical Science assessments CIE will give no marks for implementation where a practical assistant performed this skill in IGCSE and O Level tests using techniques, apparatus and materials. However, CIE may credit marks for planning, analysis and evaluation. The supervisor must detail fully in their report all assistance given. Where it is available, Centres should select an Alternative to Practical.

(m) The practical assistant is responsible to the Head of Centre/Examinations Officer and must be a person acceptable to the Head who is capable of carrying out the tasks involved. The practical assistant should not normally be the candidate’s own subject teacher. On no account may a Centre use a relative, friend or peer of the candidate as a practical assistant.

(n) The provision of a practical assistant should reflect the candidate’s normal way of working, except in cases of temporary injury to the writing hand or arm.

(o) Centres may need to accommodate separately candidates using a practical assistant in externally set practical examinations, in which case they will require a separate invigilator.

(p) The candidate may require the practical assistant, who may also be acting as a reader and/or scribe, to read back part of what they have written, but the practical assistant must make no comment about any part of the answer given.

(q) A practical assistant must not give factual help to the candidate or indicate when a task is complete.

(r) A practical assistant must not advise the candidate about which practical questions to do, when to move on to the next question, or the order in which they should answer the questions.

(s) A practical assistant must carry out accurately what the candidate has instructed, unless to do so would endanger the candidate or others present.

(t) The practical assistant must abide by the regulations. Failure to do so can lead to the disqualification of the candidate.





Example of how access arrangements for a practical assistant would apply:

1. A candidate who has a severe tremor in both hands cannot safely perform any Science practical activity. She applies for a practical assistant. She is credited with marks for planning, evaluation and observations, but she cannot gain marks for using techniques, apparatus and materials.

2. A candidate has hemiplegia affecting his left side. He is right-handed. He needs a practical assistant in Science to hold equipment steady while he performs practical tasks. The practical assistant is acting only as a second hand where two hands are needed. The candidate does not lose any marks for using apparatus and materials because he performs by himself those skills which are being assessed.

6.13 Regulations governing the use of a prompter


(b) The Centre must obtain permission from CIE for the use of a prompter prior to the examination or at the commencement of coursework.

(c) Centres can make applications to use a prompter for candidates who have:

severe attention difficulties•

a neurological or cognitive disability affecting • attention

little or no sense of time•

an obsessive-compulsive disorder which causes • them to keep revising a question rather than moving on to other questions.

For a number of candidates in this category, it may be sufficient for the invigilator to act as the prompter, provided that the number of candidates in the examination room is small enough to allow this. The same person may act as both a reader and a prompter, if CIE has permitted the candidate to have both.

(d) A prompter is a responsible adult who may sit beside the candidate in order to keep the candidate focussed on the task in hand and on the need to answer a question then move on to answering the next question.

(e) A prompter is not a reader, a scribe or a practical assistant, but the same person may act as such as long as CIE has given permission for each of these arrangements.

(f) The prompter is responsible to the Head of Centre/Examinations Officer and must be a person who is both acceptable to the Head and a person and known to the candidate.

(g) The prompter should not normally be the candidate’s own subject teacher. On no account may a relative, friend or peer of the candidate be a candidate’s prompter. A prompter should be sufficiently familiar with the candidate to recognise when their attention is no longer on the task in hand.

(h) The provision of a prompter should reflect the candidate’s normal way of working.

(i) A prompter must not speak to the candidate, give factual help or offer any suggestions. It may be possible to say the candidates name or use certain instructions on flash cards. The Centre should submit the flash cards to CIE prior to the examination to ensure that they are acceptable.

(j) A prompter must not advise the candidate about which questions to do, when to move on to the next question, or the order in which to answer the questions.

(k) A prompter must only tap on the desk or on the candidate’s arm, depending on what is normal practice, in order to remind the candidate that they must pay attention to the question.

(l) A prompter should be prepared for periods of inactivity during the examination, but must remain vigilant and refer any problems during the examination to the invigilator.

(m) The prompter must abide by the regulations. Failure to do so can lead to the disqualification of the candidate.



Example of how access arrangements for a prompter would apply:

1. A candidate with obsessive-compulsive disorder goes over the first question again and again. The prompter taps on the desk every quarter of an hour. The candidate knows how many questions they must do in that time and tries to move on.

2. A candidate with Asperger’s Syndrome has no sense of time. The prompter sees that the candidate is doing nothing. She taps on the desk to bring his attention back to the answer he was writing.

6.14 Regulations governing the use of live speakers for pre-recorded examination components


(b) The Centre must obtain permission from CIE prior to the examination for the use of live speakers.

(c) The Head of Centre must appoint the live speakers presenting the listening component. The live speakers must be fluent in the language in question – ideally the live speakers should be teachers of the language.

(d) The Centre should consider the abilities of the candidates as lip readers when requiring them to share live speakers. There should never be more than six candidates to one live speaker and they should be seated so as to gain maximum benefit from the live speaker. Ideally live speakers should work with only one or two candidates. Invigilation should take place in the normal way.

(e) The Centre should allow the live speaker access to the CDs before the examination, to allow them to prepare their role from the transcript and to hear the speed of delivery required. No interpretation of the text is permitted.

(f) To comply with security requirements, it will be necessary to delay the start of the examinations for the candidates concerned and to place them under Full Centre Supervision whilst preparation takes place. The Centre must not open materials (transcript and CD) before the scheduled time on the

final timetable.


6.15 Regulations governing the use of supervised rest breaks


(b) The Centre must obtain permission for the use of supervised rest breaks from CIE prior to the examination or at the commencement of coursework.

(c) The Centre may allow supervised rest breaks in timed components in most subjects.

(d) Candidates eligible for supervised rest breaks include those with permanent or temporary physical disabilities and, in certain cases, those with a learning difficulty.

(e) The Centre may give supervised rest breaks either in or outside the examination room. They must not deduct the duration of the break from the time allowed for the examination component. In certain cases the candidate may require additional time as well as supervised rest breaks.


6.16 Regulations governing the use of other arrangements

Coloured overlays/paper





(b) Some visual perception difficulties are normally corrected by the use of tinted spectacles or coloured overlays.

(c) CIE will not provide enlarged question papers for candidates with such difficulties, but Centres may, with the permission of CIE, open question papers up to ½ hour prior to the examination in order to make enlargements or to photocopy on coloured paper. Centres must take responsibility for ensuring that the entire paper is copied and for maintaining the security of the question paper.

Coursework extensions


(b) A Centre may request permission from CIE for an extension to the deadline for the submission of coursework marks. This might apply in the case of teacher illness or the long-term illness of an individual candidate who has been unable to complete coursework at the normal time.

Alternative accommodation


(b) A Centre may apply to CIE for permission to allow a candidate to take a paper at another venue.

(c) Centres should request alternative accommodation only for those candidates who are physically or mentally impaired to the extent that they cannot take the paper in the Centre, but are considered medically fit to take it elsewhere.

(d) The Head of Centre/Examinations Officer must be satisfied that a named responsible adult at the other venue will keep the paper in secure conditions. This named responsible adult must ensure that the examination is conducted in accordance with the Instructions for the Conduct of Examinations.

(e) The Centre should request permission as far in advance of the examination as possible, especially if they are to send separately packaged papers.

(f) The Centre should request permission to open papers up to ½ hour before the scheduled start of the examination, especially when emergency

medical situations arise at the last minute and papers have to be taken to another venue.

(g) The Centre must package securely all papers to be taken to another venue on the day of the examination and keep them under secure conditions at all times.

(h) Centres must not open papers on a date preceding the scheduled date of the examination.

(i) Centres should despatch scripts with the Centre’s other scripts and send them to the examiner at the normal time. Where scripts have to be despatched separately from a distant venue, the Centre should make sure that the other venue has appropriately addressed envelopes to send to examiners. Centres should not send any medical information to examiners.

Colour naming for colour blind candidates


(b) CIE will allow candidates who are colour blind to ask the invigilator to name colours. The invigilator cannot give any other information or explanation. If the candidate normally uses a colour chart, CIE will permit them to do so in both written and practical examinations.


6.17 Exemptions

CIE needs to balance carefully the requirement to make sure that qualifications are accessible to candidates, with the need to ensure the integrity of the qualification. Exemptions can be suitable in a few extreme cases, but CIE will only consider them as a last resort when it has made all other reasonable adjustments.

(a) The candidate must still cover the course for assessment even if they are being exempt from a particular component.


(b) CIE will not permit exemptions when they would compromises the integrity of the qualification.

(c) CIE will not permit exemptions from components of an examination which are the key objectives of the syllabus.

(d) Examples of where exemptions are not permitted (the list is not exhaustive):

Science practical•

Art•

Design (design and making)•

6.18 Appeals against the outcome of applications for access arrangements

(a) If a Head of Centre/Parent Organisation wishes to appeal against the outcome after receiving the result of any application, they may submit an appeal to the the CIE Appeals Committee.

(b) The Centre/Parent Organisations must submit an appeal in writing, within 28 days of the date of the notification of the decision.

(c) CIE will inform the Centre/Parent Organisations of the outcome of their appeal within 28 days of the date of the appeal.

(d) The outcome of an appeal is regarded as final and CIE will not enter into further correspondence about an appeal with the Centre/Parent Organisations.




Checklist for Centres conducting examinations involving candidates with disabilities

A fundamental part of providing access arrangements is to remove barriers which may prevent candidates from accessing opportunities and achieving their full potential.

CIE has produced the following checklist, which is not an exhaustive one, as a good practice guide for Centres.

A Training invigilators

1 Make sure that invigilators are made aware of any candidates with a disability and that invigilators and are trained in disability issues.

2 As part of the training process, make sure that invigilators are aware of policies and procedures relating to emergency evacuation and medication, especially where they relate to candidates with a disability.

3 Make sure that invigilators are aware of alternative means of communication, especially when conveying information to disabled candidates.

B Information for candidates

1 Make sure that information supplied to candidates with a disability, such as the Notice to Candidates, is of a suitable size and suitably adapted.

C Seating arrangements

1 Make sure that there are chairs available outside the examination rooms to enable those with a disability (or those candidates who may simply be experiencing stress) to sit and rest before they enter the examination.

2 Make sure that there is sufficient space between desks and chairs to enable a candidate (or an invigilator) who uses a wheelchair to enter and leave the room without difficulty.

3 If you know that a candidate may become unwell during the examination due to the nature of their disability, try to seat them close to an exit to make them feel more comfortable and to limit and disruption caused to others within the examination room.

4 Make sure that the seating provided is both appropriate and comfortable for those who may have a disability affecting seating and posture.

D Candidates requiring access arrangements

1 Where CIE has granted a candidate the use of a reader or a scribe, make sure the individuals acting as a reader or scribe are introduced to the candidate prior to the examination(s). This is particularly important for those candidates with autism, who find it difficult to relate to strangers.

2 Where CIE has granted a candidate supervised rest breaks, try to make sure that the rest areas are suitably comfortable as well as maintaining the security of the examination. Supervised rest breaks will apply to candidates who suffer from fatigue, hyperactivity, obsessive compulsive disorders or long term health conditions.

3 Where CIE had granted a candidate the use of a prompter, it is important that the person appointed to act as a prompter is aware of disability etiquette, particularly when touching the candidate’s desk or tapping the candidate’s arm or shoulder as a prompt. This will apply to those candidates with autism, who may have difficulty with time.

4 For on-screen tests, make sure that you adapt the hardware and software for those candidates with a visual or aural impairment.

E Emergency evacuation procedures

1 Invigilators and all other Centre staff involved in conducting examinations should be aware of the emergency evacuation procedures for candidates with a disability who may need assistance in leaving the building.

2 When evacuation and emergency procedures are being explained to candidates, invigilators should give special attention to candidates with a disability, for whom such procedures may be different.


Special consideration

6.19 Definition of special consideration

Special consideration is an adjustment to the marks or grades of a candidate who is eligible for special consideration. Special consideration can only go some way towards assisting a candidate affected by a potentially wide range of difficulties, emotional or physical, which may affect their performance in examinations.

Special consideration cannot remove the difficulty faced by the candidate. There will be situations where Centres should not enter a candidate for an examination because they are not in a fit state to cope with the assessment. CIE can make only minor adjustments to the mark awarded because to do more than this would jeopardise the assessment standard. There are minimum requirements which are set out below. All examinations measure a candidate’s knowledge and skills. The overall grades must reflect the level of attainment demonstrated in the examination. They do not necessarily reflect the candidate’s potential level of ability if attainment has been considerably affected over a long period of time. It is not necessarily the case that the grade issued will match the forecast grade.

CIE will base its decision to award special consideration on various factors, which may vary from learner to learner and from one assessment to another. These factors may include the severity of the circumstances, the date of the assessment and the nature of the assessment.

6.20 Principles governing special consideration

(a) CIE assesses all candidates according to the same marking criteria so that grades and certificates have the same validity.

(b) CIE assesses all candidates on what they know and can do, not for what they might have achieved, if circumstances had been different.

(c) Special consideration must not give the candidate an advantage over other candidates.

(d) Special consideration must not interfere with the

integrity of the assessment and CIE will therefore restrict it in certain syllabuses.

6.21 Making applications for special consideration

(a) Centres should apply for special consideration on Form 15. The Head of Centre/Examinations Officer should submit to CIE one form per candidate, per syllabus. CIE will not accept applications if parents or candidates submit them directly. Please ensure that you use the relevant form, and that you complete it fully and correctly.

(b) CIE cannot guarantee to consider a Centre’s request if it does not receive the correct information.

(c) Centres must submit applications within seven days of the last examination in the session in each syllabus. CIE will only accept late applications after the publication of results in the most exceptional circumstances.

(d) If a candidate is likely to be affected for the whole examination session (e.g. by bereavement or long-term illness), the Centre should record all examinations affected then submit an application form when the candidate completes the last component for each syllabus. This will ensure that CIE receives all of the necessary information in time for the issue of results.

(e) A friend or relative of the candidate should not write the evidence submitted in support of special consideration applications. Where this is unavoidable, a senior member of Centre staff must countersign and authorise the evidence. CIE reserves the right to refuse evidence that a friend or relative of the candidate has written.

(f) Centres must complete forms in all cases. It may be appropriate for the Head of Centre or Examinations Officers to attach a letter of explanation to the form if circumstances are unusual or if the form is not adequate for the particular circumstances. In some circumstances, it is appropriate to submit one form and attach to it a list of all the candidates affected, and/or a letter.

(g) CIE will not accept invigilator reports, or applications included with scripts, as applications for special consideration. The Centre must complete the correct form and send it directly to CIE.



(h) It is not possible for all letters to receive an individual reply. It is more important to process the application before the issue of results. CIE will not send outcomes to candidates, parents or carers; the Centre must deal with them.

(i) CIE will acknowledge all approved applications with a standard outcome letter. It is not CIE policy to inform the Centre of specific details about the action taken during the special consideration process. If the application is rejected, CIE will inform the Centre/Parent Organisation of the reasons. If the case is referred to the Grade Review Award for consideration by a team of senior examiners, CIE will send a standard letter.

(j) The Centre/Parent Organisation making the entry must submit the application. CIE will not accept applications from candidates or their parents.

(k) Please read the note printed on the back of the application form before completing it. Send the completed form by fax, by CIE direct, or post to:


Fax number: +44 1223 553558

(l) For cases of lost/damaged coursework, the Examinations Officer should submit Form 12 (NLC).

(m) For cases of shortfall in coursework, or any other request for special consideration, the Examinations Officer should submit Form 15.

6.22 Candidates who are present for the assessment but disadvantaged

(a) CIE will normally give special consideration by applying an allowance of marks to each component affected in a particular scheme of assessment. The size of the allowance depends on the nature and extent of the illness or misfortune.

(b) CIE will base its decision on various factors which will be different from one subject to another. These might include:

the severity of the circumstances•

the date of the examination in relation to the • circumstances

the nature of the assessment (e.g. whether • the written papers or coursework are affected, whether an oral or practical is involved).

6.23 Candidates who are absent from a timetabled component/unit for acceptable reasons

(a) When a candidate has missed a timetabled component for acceptable reasons and can produce medical evidence that they were unfit to take the paper, CIE may make an adjustment to the terminal grade, but only if the candidate missed the component in the terminal session and satisfied the minimum requirements.

CIE cannot give advice about whether a candidate is fit to take an examination. Centre staff should follow their internal procedures for dealing with candidates who feel unwell on the day of an examination. If the candidate is in court accused of a crime, CIE will postpone any decision until the outcome of the case is known and the Centre submits appropriate documentation from the court.

(b) The minimum requirement for enhancing grading in cases of acceptable absence is that the candidate must have completed 50% of the total assessment.

(c) For Science practical examinations: to ensure fairness for the candidates when doing an assessed grade due to illness, CIE may require the Centre to submit evidence of the candidate’s practical attainment throughout their course. This is in addition to the supporting medical evidence that is required.

(d) Where a candidate was entered but died before completing the minimum amount of assessment required, or was entered and is terminally ill and unable to complete the minimum amount of assessment, the Centre may request an honorary certificate from CIE. Where the candidate met the minimum requirement, CIE will issue an award as described above.



6.24 Non-acceptable reasons for special consideration

(a) The candidate missed any part of the examination due to personal arrangements including holidays, or unauthorised absence from any examination component.

(b) The candidate has been disadvantaged due to reasons which were not beyond their control, e.g. misreading the timetable or question paper.

(c) The Centre/Parent Organisation did not supply information at the time of the examination that the candidate had been affected by a particular condition, e.g. epilepsy, diabetes, hay fever.

(d) The candidate already has access arrangements for the same condition.

(e) The reason for the application is that English is not the candidate’s first language.

(f) Difficulties during the course affected preparation for a component, e.g. disturbances through building work, lack of proper facilities, changes in staff, shortages of staff, industrial disputes.

(g) CIE cannot reliably quantify the effect on the final assessment.

(h) The candidate completed the wrong question paper. CIE may, however, consider this in certain circumstances.

(i) The Centre did not adequately prepare the candidate for the examination.

(j) For CIE to grant special consideration to be granted in respect of a missed component, the candidate must have completed a minimum of 50% of the assessment, measured in terms of the weightings given to each component of the syllabus. This excludes carry forward components.

6.25 Shortfall in coursework

(a) Where a candidate has a shortfall in coursework due to an unforeseen illness or other misfortune during the period when the coursework was produced, it may, in some subjects, be possible to accept a reduced quantity of coursework without penalty. It will not be possible to give this consideration in

every case, e.g. if the candidate has not satisfied the coursework assessment objectives. For the award of a grade where a candidate has a shortfall in coursework, the candidate must have completed a minimum of 50% of the total coursework requirement.

(b) CIE will not give exemptions if a candidate fails to complete any coursework. Such a candidate is not eligible for the award of a grade in that syllabus and will receive a ‘No Result’ (see point 4.10).

(c) Centres are required to complete Form 15 (SC) stating how much of the coursework the candidate has completed overall. CIE will consider the remaining time available for the candidate to complete the shortfall before it sends a response to the Centre. Candidates should always attempt the required coursework. CIE will not normally agree reduced coursework in advance.

(d) Centres must not make any adjustment to the marks. Centres should complete Form 15 (SC) stating how much of the coursework the candidate has completed overall, giving a breakdown of marks across the assessment objectives.

(e) CIE will not grant a shortfall in coursework to allow for the Centre’s individual teaching arrangements.

6.26 Lost or damaged coursework

(a) It is CIE policy that, where possible, candidates must not be penalised for the inadvertent loss of, or damage to, coursework. Where loss or damage has occurred, consideration may involve accepting a mark for which there is no available evidence of attainment. The Centre must notify CIE of the circumstances as soon as possible. The Centre must be able to verify that the work was done and that it was monitored while it was in progress.

(b) For internally-assessed coursework, the Centre must give notification on Form 12 (NLC). A copy of this form is in the Administrative Guide for Centres. Where the Centre has marks in its records for the missing work, CIE will allow the Centre to submit these in the normal manner. If work is lost before being marked, the Centre must send to CIE any existing coursework for the candidates affected, together with a copy of the Form 12 (NLC) and the moderation sample. If no work exists, the Centre must include a copy of Form 12 (NLC) in the sample submission.



(c) For externally-assessed coursework, the Centre must notify CIE of the loss or damage, in writing and as soon as possible.

6.27 Other problems

(a) There are circumstances which arise by accident and where a specialist input may be required. Such circumstances may involve examination papers, e.g. if an invigilator gives a candidate a wrong paper, or if a paper is defective in some way, perhaps with an incorrectly printed page. CIE gives these cases special consideration by other means than those discussed above. CIE may have to refer such cases to a Product Manager or Senior Examiner for a subject-specific decision on how to award the special consideration. This means that the results may not show the enhancement immediately, but CIE may have scaled the marks to take account of the problem.

(b) A Centre may not realise that the candidate has been given an incorrect paper. CIE will notify Centres of any discrepancies. If the Centre is aware of the error at the time of the examination it may give the candidate the correct paper, but only if they are still under supervised conditions and able to continue with the examination. The Centre should send a special consideration form to CIE both when the candidate has taken the incorrect paper and when the Centre has replaced the incorrect paper with the correct paper and the candidate has taken both.

(c) In very exceptional circumstances beyond the Centre’s ability to reasonably predict and plan for, e.g. earthquakes, war or epidemics, CIE may consider, at its sole discretion, accepting alternative forms of evidence of candidate attainment for assessment. CIE will always make any decision in such a matter in full compliance with the CIE Code of Practice.

6.28 Appeals against the outcome of applications for special consideration

(a) If a Head of Centre/Parent Organisation wishes to appeal against the outcome of any application they may submit an appeal to the CIE Appeals Committee.

(b) The Centre must submit an appeal, in writing, within 28 days of the date of the notification of the decision.

(c) CIE will inform the Centre of the outcome of their appeal within 28 days.

(d) The outcome of an appeal is regarded as final and CIE will not enter into further correspondence.


University of Cambridge International ExaminationsPart 7: Malpractice and maladministration | 107

7.1 Introduction

Malpractice and maladministration are those actions that may threaten the integrity of CIE examinations and certification. It is the responsibility of the Head of Centre/Parent Organisation to report to CIE immediately all cases of suspected malpractice and maladministration.

This Handbook:

establishes the regulations under which • examinations operatedefines malpractice in the context of examinations• sets out the rights and responsibilities of CIE, • Centre staff and candidates in relation to such mattersdescribes the procedures Centres must follow in • cases where there is reason to suspect that the regulations have been broken.

CIE requires Heads of Centres/Parent Organisations to inform candidates and Centre staff of their individual responsibilities and rights as set out in these guidelines.

7.2 CIE procedures for dealing with suspected malpractice

(a) CIE will acknowledge the receipt of reports of malpractice. When dealing with suspected malpractice, CIE will deal primarily with the Head of Centre/Parent Organisation or his/her nominated representative. CIE expects Heads of Centres/Parent Organisations to supervise personally all investigations resulting from an allegation of malpractice. It is always in the best interests of candidates and/or Centre staff and invigilators if Centres respond speedily and openly to all requests for an investigation into an incident.

(b) CIE reserves the right to withhold the issue of results while investigations are on-going. Depending on the outcome of the investigation, CIE may either release or permanently withhold results.

(c) Centres must send any documents requested to CIE within 28 days of the date of the request or CIE will consider that the Centre/candidate has nothing more to add. In that case the Malpractice Committee will review the case on the basis of the evidence that has already been presented.

(d) On the basis of the information received, CIE will refer the matter to the CIE Malpractice Committee. The Malpractice Committee consists of the Regulations Manager, Regulations Officer and, as appropriate, other subject and assessment specialists. The Malpractice Committee will decide what action, if any, CIE should take. The Committee will consider each case of suspected malpractice on an individual basis in light of all the information available.

(e) CIE may impose the following penalties:

issue a warning•

deduct marks or award no marks for a • component

disqualify candidates from the subject in which • the malpractice took place; in some cases the disqualification may be extended to all subjects taken in a session

ban a candidate from entering CIE examinations • for up to five years

inform other examining bodies of the details of • the case and the action taken

inform the police in some serious cases • involving theft, impersonation or the falsification of documents.

CIE may impose other penalties at the discretion of the Malpractice Committee.

(f) Even if the Centre has breached the regulations inadvertently, the Malpractice Committee may decide that the circumstances are such that the award of an accurate grade is not possible.

(g) CIE will inform Heads of Centres/Parent Organisations of decisions in writing as soon as possible after decisions are made. It is the responsibility of the Head of Centre/Parent Organisation to communicate the outcome to the individuals concerned.

(h) CIE will not consider any requests for examination result enquiries for any syllabus component(s) for which malpractice has been confirmed.

Part 7: Malpractice and maladministration

University of Cambridge International Examinations108 | Part 7: Malpractice and maladministration


7.3 Suspected candidate malpractice

(a) The following are examples of malpractice by candidates. The list is not exhaustive and CIE may consider other instances of malpractice at its discretion:

misuse of examination material•

behaving in such a way as to undermine the • integrity of the examination

failure to abide by the conditions of supervision • designed to maintain the security of the examinations

disruptive behaviour in the examination room • (including the use of offensive language)

introduction of unauthorised material into the • examination room (e.g. notes, study guides and personal organisers, own blank paper, calculators, dictionaries (when prohibited), personal stereos, mobile phones or other similar electronic devices)

introducing into the examination room notes in • the wrong format (when notes are permitted), or incorrectly annotated texts (in open book examinations)

obtaining, receiving, exchanging or passing on • information which could be examination-related (or attempting to) by means of talking or written papers/notes

impersonation; pretending to be someone else, • arranging for another to take one’s place in an examination

the inclusion of inappropriate, offensive or • obscene material in scripts or coursework

copying from another candidate (including the • misuse of ICT to do so)

collusion; working collaboratively with other • candidates

plagiarism; the failure to acknowledge sources • properly and/or the submission of another person’s work as if it were the candidate’s own

theft of another’s work•

the deliberate destruction of another’s work•

the alteration of any results document, including • certificates

failure to abide by the instructions of an • invigilator

failure to abide by the conditions of supervision • designed to maintain the security of the examinations

any attempt to remove or reveal the content of • the examination outside the examination room, in contravention of the 24 hour security rule.

7.4 Suspected Centre malpractice

(a) The following are examples of malpractice by Centre staff. The list is not exhaustive and CIE may consider other instances of malpractice at its discretion.

moving the time or date of a fixed examination • (outside the ‘window’) without notifying CIE and obtaining permission

failure to keep examination papers secure prior • to the examination

failure to keep candidate scripts secure after the • examination

obtaining unauthorised access to examination • material prior to an examination

assisting candidates in the production of • coursework, beyond that permitted by the regulations

allowing candidates unsupervised access to • coursework exemplar material, whether this is the work of former students or that provided by CIE

failure to keep student computer files secure•

assisting or prompting candidates with the • production of answers.


7.5 Suspected malpractice discovered by a Centre

(a) If malpractice is discovered by a Centre, it must submit full details of the case at the earliest opportunity to CIE in writing to:


Fax number: + 44 1223 553558 Email: [email protected]

(b) If the conduct of a candidate is such that his/her continued presence in the examination room would cause disruption to other candidates, the Centre may remove him/her from the examination room. Centres must report to CIE all cases of disruptive behaviour, whether or not the candidate was removed from the examination room.

(c) Reports of cases of malpractice in written examinations, identified by the Centre, must include:

statements from the Head of Centre/Parent • Organisation (a detailed account of the circumstances surrounding the suspected malpractice including, in the case of disruptive behaviour, an indication as to whether the behaviour continued after warnings were given, and a report of any investigation carried out by the Centre)

statements from the invigilator(s) and other staff • concerned

handwritten statements from the candidates • concerned or a statement from the candidates indicating that they have been given the opportunity to make a statement

any unauthorised material found in a candidate’s • possession

seating plans (if appropriate)•

the procedures followed by the Centre for • advising staff and candidates of CIE regulations for the conduct of its examinations.

(d) CIE will consider any statement of mitigating circumstances provided by the Centre/Parent Organisation as well as any recommendation about the penalty the Centre/Parent Organisation considers appropriate. CIE will make all final decisions concerning the case.

Failure to submit the relevant information could delay the resolution of the case.

7.6 Suspected malpractice discovered by CIE examiners and other persons

(a) If a CIE examiner or moderator discovers malpractice, or a candidate or member of the public reports malpractice to CIE, the Centre will receive a report from CIE with full details of the alleged malpractice. CIE will ask the Head of Centre/Parent Organisation to conduct a full investigation into the alleged malpractice and to submit a written report.

(b) Reports from the Head of Centre/Parent Organisation following the investigation of cases of suspected malpractice notified to them by CIE must include:

written statements that the candidate(s) • involved have been notified of the report and that they are aware of the content of the report

a detailed account of the investigation carried • out by the Centre/Parent Organisation

written statements from the invigilators and • other staff concerned



the procedures followed by the Centre for • advising staff and candidates of CIE regulations for the conduct of its examinations.

(c) CIE will consider any statement of mitigating circumstances provided by the Centre/Parent Organisation as well as any recommendation about the penalty the Centre/Parent Organisation considers appropriate. CIE will make all final decisions concerning the case.





7.7 Malpractice in Centre-based assessments

(a) If malpractice in Centre-based assessments is discovered prior to the date for final entry, the Centre should resolve the matter internally and may exercise discretion as to whether or not to enter the candidates concerned. If the Centre subsequently enters such candidates, it must not give credit for any work submitted which is not the candidate’s own work. Centres are reminded that the teacher must authenticate all work.

(b) If malpractice is discovered during the marking of coursework at the Centre, the Centre must report details to CIE. If the Centre cannot authenticate the work of any candidate because of suspected malpractice, then they should give a mark of zero for the piece of coursework concerned. In the event of suspected malpractice being identified by CIE, an external moderator/examiner or other third parties, the matter will be referred to the Centre for investigation.

(c) Reports of cases of malpractice in Centre-based assessments must include:

written statements that the candidate(s) • involved have been notified of the report and that they are aware of the content of the report

a detailed account of the investigation carried • out by the Centre/Parent Organisation

written statements from the staff concerned•



the procedures followed by the Centre for • advising staff and candidates of CIE regulations for the production of assessments.

(d) CIE will consider any statement of mitigating circumstances provided by the Centre/Parent Organisation and any recommendation about the penalty the Centre/Parent Organisation considers

appropriate. CIE will make all final decisions concerning the case.


7.8 Malpractice and maladministration by Centre staff

(a) CIE will deem any non-compliance with the guidelines for the conduct of the examinations, or any action by a member of staff to contravene CIE regulations, as maladministration or malpractice by the Centre.

(b) Centres must notify CIE immediately of any actual or suspected cases of maladministration or malpractice by staff in writing to:


Fax number: + 44 1223 553558 Email: [email protected]

(c) The Head of Centre/Parent Organisation must carry out the initial investigations into any cases of alleged malpractice or maladministration by a member of Centre staff. CIE will notify the Head of Centre/Parent Organisation of any subsequent investigation required by CIE and the nature of the report they must submit.

(d) The Centre must make any member of staff accused of malpractice or maladministration fully aware (preferably in writing) at the earliest opportunity of the nature of the alleged malpractice and the possible consequences should malpractice be proved. Any member of staff accused of malpractice or maladministration must have the opportunity to respond (preferably in writing) to the allegations made.

(e) On the basis of evidence received, the CIE Malpractice Committee will consider each case and decide on the action to take.

(f) The CIE Malpractice Committee may take the following actions:


issue a warning about their future conduct to • the Centre or staff involved

debar members of staff from involvement in • the administration of CIE examinations for a specified period of time

debar the Centre from entering CIE • examinations.

inform other awarding bodies of the details of • the case and the action taken

inform the police and other relevant authorities.•

(g) CIE will endeavour to ensure that candidates are neither advantaged nor disadvantaged as a consequence of malpractice or maladministration by staff. However, it may be necessary to withhold the results for candidates until the Committee has completed its consideration of the case.

7.9 Procedures for investigating alleged malpractice

(a) Allegations of malpractice are generally reported to CIE by examiners, moderators, invigilators, Head of Centres/Parent Organisations, candidates and members of the public generally. When dealing with alleged malpractice, CIE will deal primarily with the Head of Centre/Parent Organisations or his/her nominated representative. In certain circumstances, e.g. when a candidate’s account of events is at variance with that of the Centre’s, CIE may deal directly with the candidate or the candidate’s representative.

(b) CIE will seek to establish the full facts and circumstances of any alleged malpractice and, where appropriate, information about the individual’s conduct in other examinations.

7.10 Sanctions and penalties applied against candidates

(a) CIE at its discretion may impose sanctions and penalties against candidates found to have broken the regulations.

(b) Heads of Centres/Parent Organisations retain sole discretion to take any further action that they deem

appropriate in cases of candidate irregularity.

(c) CIE does not apply sanctions and penalties to breaches of its regulations according to a fixed scale, but chooses them from a defined range, in order to reflect the particular circumstances of each case and any mitigating factors.

CIE reserves the right to apply penalties flexibly, outside of the defined ranges, if they find particular mitigating or aggravating circumstances exist.

As CIE can make no assumptions on intended actions, it will base penalties only on the evidence presented.

All penalties must be justifiable and reasonable in their scale and consistent in their application.

Penalties will only apply to the session in which the offence has been committed and possible future session. (If evidence comes to light some considerable time after the offence, CIE may still apply a penalty to the session in which the offence was committed and to a later session.)

7.11 Sanctions and penalties applied against members of staff and Centres

(a) Where a member of staff has been found guilty of malpractice or maladministration, the CIE Malpractice Committee may take action.

(b) Where an investigation establishes malpractice or maladministration by a member of staff, any subsequent disciplinary action against the member of staff concerned must be the responsibility of the Head of Centre/Parent Organisation.

(c) CIE’s role is to establish whether and to what extent the integrity of the examination has been breached so that it can take appropriate steps to protect, as far as possible, the interests of the candidates. Also, it is necessary to determine what action should be taken to safeguard the integrity of future examinations.



7.12 Communicating decisions to members of staff and candidates

(a) CIE will inform Heads of Centres/Parent Organisations in writing as soon as possible after decisions are made. It is the responsibility of the Head of Centre/Parent Organisation to communicate the decision to the individuals concerned, and to pass on warnings in cases where this is indicated.

7.13 Exchange of information with other awarding bodies and authorities

(a) The majority of cases of malpractice are essentially confidential between the individual Centre and CIE, but there are certain cases which have wider implications. In cases of serious malpractice, in order to preserve the integrity of the examination, it will normally be necessary for information to be exchanged.

7.14 Appeals against decisions of the CIE Malpractice Committee

(a) The CIE Malpractice Appeals Committee will consider appeals against decisions made by the CIE Malpractice Committee provided that the Centre/Parent Organisation endorses them. When making an appeal, please provide CIE with any additional information or evidence you would like the Malpractice Appeals Committee to consider.

(b) The Head of Centre must send any appeal in writing within 28 days from the date of notification of decision.

(c) Once a Centre has submitted an appeal, all communication relating to the case must be in writing.

(d) CIE will not enter into any communication regarding an appeal with candidates or their parents.

(e) CIE will inform the Centre/Parent Organisation of the outcome of their appeal within 28 days of the date of the appeal.

(f) The outcome of an appeal is regarded as final and CIE will not enter into further correspondence about an appeal with the Centre/Parent Organisation.


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8.1 Provisional examination results

Centres are able to view and download their results on dates previously notified to them from the CIE website https://direct.cie.org.uk. This is a secure website and Centres will only be able to view their own results. Centres can release results to candidates as soon as they are available on the website.

CIE will send printed statements of results for General Qualifications to Centres/Parent Organisations on dates previously notified to them. CIE will not email results either to Centres or to any other parties. For Professional Qualifications, CIE will despatch modular statements of results according to the schedule on the Administrative Calendar for on-demand modules. It is the responsibility of the Centre to forward statements of results to all candidates. Please note that for private candidates the name of the Centre will not appear on either the statement of results or the certificate.

CIE is not obliged to provide candidates with their assessment results directly and will not usually do so. However, CIE in its absolute discretion reserves the right to inform candidates of their results in extreme circumstances, upon proof of identity satisfactory to CIE.

The statement of results is not a certificate and CIE reserves the right to amend the information given on this statement, which CIE will confirm by the issue of a certificate. The statement of results is and remains the property of CIE and is issued on the following conditions:

any alteration or defacement to a statement of • results renders it invalidCentres must return a statement of results to CIE • upon request.

For General Qualifications, Centres must notify CIE immediately of any errors in candidates’ names on statements of results for correction before certificates are issued. A fee is payable for any amendment requested after the issue of certificates – after 15 September for the June examination session, or after 15 February for the October and November examination sessions.

For Professional Qualifications a fee is payable for any amendment requested after the issue of certificates.

CIE does not send statements of results directly to candidates or to any other parties apart from the Centres. However, CIE will issue a certifying statement of provisional results on the same day results are published, if the Centre the candidate is entered through gives CIE written authorisation to do so. (The authorisation must be on Centre headed note paper and signed by the Head of Centre). Authorisation from the Centre is not required if the statement is for a school or university. A copy of this form is in the Administrative Guide for Centres. CIE will despatch these statements on the date provisional results are published. Authorisations from Centres are no longer required after CIE has published the provisional results.

8.2 Examination grades and percentage uniform marks

CIE issues provisional results on statements of results with grades indicated as detailed by examination type in 8.2.1 to 8.2.10. For each examination ‘No Result’ on the statement of results indicates that CIE cannot issue a result, either because of absence for the whole or part of the examination in the syllabus or because of a decision not to issue a result for some other reason. ‘Pending’ indicates that CIE cannot issue a result at present but that it will follow in due course.

Percentage uniform marks are provided for IGCSE and GCE A Level, AS Level, and O Level. They are an additional piece of information provided on each candidate’s Statement of Results to supplement their grade for a syllabus. They are determined in this way:

A candidate who obtains full marks receives a percentage uniform mark of 100%A candidate who obtains the minimum mark necessary for a Grade A* obtains a percentage uniform mark of 90%A candidate who obtains the minimum mark necessary for a Grade A obtains a percentage uniform mark of 80%A candidate who obtains the minimum mark necessary for a Grade B obtains a percentage uniform mark of 70%A candidate who obtains the minimum mark necessary for a Grade C obtains a percentage uniform mark of 60%A candidate who obtains the minimum mark necessary for a Grade D obtains a percentage uniform mark of 50%

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A candidate who obtains the minimum mark necessary for a Grade E obtains a percentage uniform mark of 40%A candidate who obtains the minimum mark necessary for a Grade F (in qualifications where Grade F is awarded) obtains a percentage uniform mark of 30%A candidate who obtains the minimum mark necessary for a Grade G (in qualifications where Grade G is awarded) obtains a percentage uniform mark of 20%A candidate who obtains no marks receives a percentage uniform mark of 0%

Candidates whose mark is none of the above receive a percentage mark in between those stated according to the position of their mark in relation to the grade ‘thresholds’ (i.e. the minimum mark for obtaining a grade). For example, a candidate whose mark is halfway between the minimum for a Grade C and the minimum for a Grade D (and whose grade is therefore D) receives a percentage uniform mark of 55%

The uniform percentage mark is stated at syllabus level only. It is not the same as the ‘raw’ mark obtained by the candidate, since it depends on the position of the grade thresholds (which many vary from one session to another and from one subject to another) and it has been turned into a percentage.

8.2.1 GCE A (Advanced) Level

GCE A Level results are shown by one of the grades A*(a*), A(a) B(b), C(c), D(d) or E(e) indicating the standard achieved, grade A*(a*) being the highest and grade E(e) the lowest. ‘Ungraded’ indicates that the candidate has failed to reach the standard required for a pass at either Advanced Level or Advanced Subsidiary Level. ‘Ungraded’ will be reported on the statement of results but not on the certificate. If a candidate takes an A Level and fails to achieve grade E(e) or higher, an Advanced Subsidiary Level grade will be awarded if both of the following apply:

the components taken for the A Level by • the candidate in that session included all the components making up an Advanced Subsidiary Levelthe candidate’s performance on these components • was sufficient to merit the award of an Advanced Subsidiary Level grade.

For languages other than English syllabuses, CIE also reports separate speaking endorsement grades

(Distinction, Merit and Pass), for candidates who satisfy the conditions as stated in the syllabus.

8.2.2 GCE AS (Advanced Subsidiary) Level

Advanced Subsidiary Level results are shown by one of the grades a(a), b(b), c(c), d(d) or e(e) indicating the standard achieved, grade a(a) being the highest and grade e(e) the lowest. ‘Ungraded’ indicates that the candidate has failed to reach the standard required for a pass at Advanced Subsidiary. ‘Ungraded’ will be reported on the statement of results but not on the certificate. For languages other than English syllabuses, CIE will also report separate speaking endorsement grades (Distinction, Merit and Pass) for candidates who satisfy the conditions as stated in the syllabus.

The content and difficulty of a GCE Advanced Subsidiary Level examination is equivalent to the first half of a corresponding Advanced Level.

8.2.3 AICE Half-Credit

AICE Half-Credit subject results are shown by one of the grades A(a), B(b), C(c), D(d) or E(e) indicating the standard achieved, grade A(a) being the highest and grade E(e) the lowest. ‘Ungraded’ indicates that the candidate’s performance fell short of the standard required for grade E(e). ‘Ungraded’ will be reported on the statement of results but not on the certificate.

8.2.4 AICE Diploma

CIE will report the AICE Diploma on a three-point scale of grades (Distinction, Merit and Pass) to candidates who satisfy the conditions as stated in the examination regulations.

8.2.5 GCE O (Ordinary) Level

GCE O Level results are shown by one of the grades A*(a*), A(a), B(b) C(c) D(d) or E(e) indicating the standard achieved, grade A*(a*) being the highest and grade E(e) the lowest. ‘Ungraded’ indicates that the candidate’s performance fell short of the standard required for grade E(e). ‘Ungraded’ will be reported on the statement of results but not on the certificate.

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8.2.6 IGCSE and ICE

IGCSE results are shown by one of the grades A*(a*), A(a), B(b), C(c), D(d), E(e), F(f) or G(g) indicating the standard achieved, grade A*(a*) being the highest and grade G(g) the lowest. ‘Ungraded’ indicates that the candidate’s performance fell short of the standard required for grade G(g). ‘Ungraded’ will be reported on the statement of results but not on the certificate. For some language syllabuses CIE also reports separate oral endorsement grades on a scale of 1 to 5 (1 being the highest).

CIE will report the ICE group award on a three-point scale of grades (Distinction, Merit and Pass), to candidates who satisfy the conditions as stated in the examination regulations.

8.2.7 HIGCSE

HIGCSE results are shown by one of the grades 1(One), 2(Two), 3(Three) and 4(Four), with grade 1(One) being the highest and grade 4(Four) the lowest. ‘Ungraded’ indicates that the candidate’s performance fell short of the standard required for grade 4(Four). ‘Ungraded’ will be reported on the statement of results but not on the certificate.

8.2.8 Checkpoint

CIE will send to Centres a diagnostic feedback on performance on a date previously advised to them. CIE will provide feedback in three areas:

(a) individual student reports

(b) a Centre report

(c) teaching group reports.

Subsequent to the issue of diagnostic feedback, CIE will provide Centres with an end of session report (including examiner reports), showing how the cohort of candidates, as a whole, performed on the tests.

8.2.9 Cambridge International Primary Achievement Tests

CIE will send Centres a certificate of achievement for each candidate. CIE will also provide a summary report of each candidate’s results, and a moderator’s report.

8.2.10 Professional Qualifications

The module grades that are applicable to each qualification are specified in the relevant qualification booklets. CIE issues provisional module results on statements of results.

For Cambridge Young Enterprise International, CIE reports results on a four point scale of results: Distinction, Credit, Pass and Unclassified. ‘Unclassified’ indicates that the candidate’s performance fell short of the standard required for a pass. This will be reported on the statement of results but not on the certificate.

8.3 Certificates

A CIE certificate will record a candidate’s final results. A certificate is and remains the property of CIE and is issued on the following conditions:

any alteration or defacement to a certificate renders • it invalidCentres must return a certificate to CIE upon • request.

It is the responsibility of the Centre to forward certificates to their candidates. Centres must distribute certificates to candidates as soon as possible. Where certificates are not handed to the candidates personally, Centres are responsible for obtaining acknowledgement of receipt from the candidate.

As candidate’s marks and subject grades may be lowered by the outcome of an enquiry about results, CIE are unable to despatch certificates until after the deadline for the submission of enquiries. Certificates will be despatched as soon as this deadline has passed but the certificate for any candidate for whom an enquiry is still in progress will be withheld until the outcome of the enquiry about results is known.


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CIE checks carefully all certificates for General Qualifications. However, in the event that a certificate is found to be missing from the despatch, it is the responsibility of the Centre to inform CIE of any missing certificate by 30 November for the June examinations and by 30 April for the October and November examinations. CIE will charge a fee for requests for missing certificates after this date. CIE will charge an additional fee for despatch by courier – please refer to the Administrative Guide for Centres which details costs.

Centres must retain certificates in a safe place until they are distributed to candidates. The Centre must retain unclaimed certificates under secure conditions for a minimum period of twelve months from the date of issue. After that period, the Centre may return unclaimed certificates to CIE, enclosing a list of those certificates they are returning. The Centre must also keep a copy of this list. In no circumstances must Centres destroy unclaimed certificates.

8.3.1 Lost certificates and certifying statements

A candidate who has lost a CIE certificate may apply for a certifying statement of results, using the certifying statement application form. (A copy of this form is in the Administrative Guide for Centres.) Centres may apply to CIE for a certifying statement of results at any time.

A certifying statement is an official document issued by CIE which shows the grades a candidate obtained in a given examination session. The certifying statement is fully endorsed by the Vice Chancellor of the University of Cambridge. CIE can also issue a certifying statement as proof of the applicant’s results to an educational institution or employer. A certifying statement shows all grades, including fail and ungraded results (unlike a certificate which only shows grades determined to be of a certain standard for a given qualification).CIE will charge a fee for issuing certifying statements.

8.3.2 Damaged certificates

CIE at its absolute discretion reserves the right to issue replacement certificates to candidates, on satisfactory proof of identity. This service is available only within 18 months of the date of issue of the original certificate. After that period CIE will issue a certifying statement

to candidates as in 8.3.1. The candidate must return the damaged certificate to CIE before it can provide any replacement certificate. A fee will be charged for issuing a replacement certificate.

8.3.3 Name changes

CIE issues certificates in the name of the candidate at the time the award is made. CIE will not provide replacement certificates to accommodate a subsequent change of name.

8.3.4 Incorrect candidate and/or Centre details

Centres must check the Centre and candidate details, including the spelling of names and dates of birth, when CIE issues them with statements of entry and statements of results. A Centre must report to CIE immediately any inaccuracies prior to the issue of certificates. CIE will charge a fee for issuing a replacement certificate or statement of results due to incorrect candidate and/or Centre details. This service is available only within 18 months of the date of issue of the original certificate or statement of results, and the candidate must return the original certificate before CIE will issue a replacement certificate.

8.3.5 Combining grades from examination sessions on single certificates

CIE cannot combine grades obtained at different examination sessions onto one certificate. For example, it cannot record on a single certificate grades obtained in both a June session and a November session. CIE issues separate certificates for each separate examination session.Further, CIE will not delete selected grades from a certificate issued for an examination session.

8.4 Letters of concern about results

CIE will acknowledge any letter a Centre submits expressing general concern with its results in a particular examination, but it will not carry out an investigation. If a Centre requires such an investigation


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it must use one of the results enquiry services (see Part 9).

8.5 Reports on the examination

CIE issues various reports on the examination, copies of which are available from the teacher support website or from CIE Publications.

8.6 Amendments to results and certificates

CIE operates ongoing internal quality assurance procedures and also makes available facilities for enquiries about results and appeals by the Centre (see Part 9). As a result of these, CIE may need to issue amended statements of results or certificates. Although CIE will amend statements of results and certificates only in exceptional circumstances, it reserves the right to do this, at any time and without liability, to Centres or candidates.

8.7 University entrance

Universities and other institutions issue particulars of the conditions that apply to CIE examinations for university entrance. You must address admissions enquiries to the institution concerned and not to CIE.

8.8 Verification of results

A candidate or institution requiring verification of results issued by CIE may apply by completing the results verification application form. (A copy of this form is in the Administrative Guide for Centres). You may apply to CIE for verification of results at any time. CIE will charge a fee for this service.


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Part 9: Enquiries about examination results

9.1 Enquiries about examination results

CIE carries out extensive quality checks prior to issuing results. However, an enquiry about examination results service is available to Centres in case they feel that additional investigation into the result of one or more specific candidates is appropriate.

Centres and candidates should be aware that a candidate’s syllabus grade may remain the same, go up or go down as a consequence of an enquiry about examination results.

9.1.1 Explanation of ‘NO RESULT’ or ‘PENDING’

CIE will provide without charge, on request from the Head of Centre/Parent Organisation, an explanation of any report of ‘No Result’ (Grade X) or ‘Pending’ (Grade Q). Centres must submit such a request on an Application Form for Enquiries about Results (INT FORM E), which CIE will normally despatch with the statement of results. A copy of this form is in the Administrative Guide for Centres.

CIE will ask the Centre to submit any documentary evidence to suggest that CIE’s records are inaccurate, e.g. an attendance register or coursework mark.

CIE may confirm that it is unable to issue a result for the candidate for the syllabus, in which case its explanation will consist of one of the following:

a confirmation of the component(s) for which CIE • had no marka confirmation of a previous notification to the • Centre of the reason why CIE cannot award a result, e.g. that CIE did not receive documents, coursework marks or information to confirm that the candidate did or did not sit a particular examination.

9.1.2 Submission of enquiries

Apart from an explanation of a Grade X or a Grade Q, CIE will provide a number of other services, specified in 9.2 below, in response to result enquiries.

(a) CIE will normally despatch application forms for

enquiries about examination results (INT FORM E) with the statements of results. A copy of this form is in the Administrative Guide for Centres.

(b) Centres must obtain candidate consent for enquiries about results, as candidate’s marks and subject grades may be lowered.

(i) Candidates must be informed of this possible outcome and provide their informed consent in writing before an application is submitted. A Candidate Consent Form for Centres to use is included in the Administrative Guide For Centres 2010.

(ii) Consent forms must be retained by the Centre and kept for at least 6 months following the outcome of the enquiry about results or any subsequent appeal.

(iii) The submission of INT FORM E by the Centre carries with it confirmation to CIE that the informed consent of the candidates listed has been obtained.

Candidate consent is not required for a ‘Service 5’ enquiry (Re-moderation of Coursework with Report), because, for that service only, candidates grades cannot be lowered but only raised or confirmed.

(c) CIE will not consider:

(i) any telephone requests for enquiries about examination results, except for ‘No Result’ or ‘Pending’

(ii) any requests for enquiries about examination results involving any syllabus component(s) for which malpractice has been confirmed (see 7.2 (h))

(iii) any requests for enquiries about examination results from individual candidates or their parents.

(d) It is in their best interests that Centres submit at the same time all enquiries concerning a particular syllabus.

(e) CIE will invoice the Centre/Parent Organisation at the end of the examination session for all candidates where they have submitted a result enquiry. In cases where a grade change has resulted from the enquiry, CIE will not charge an enquiry fee (see 9.6).

Centres must submit enquiries as soon as possible after CIE has issued the results.

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9.2 Enquiry services available

There are two options available when submitting enquiries about results: enquiry by syllabus or enquiry by component.

Enquiry by syllabus will be a review of all • externally-assessed components. Centres do not need to specify components on the INT Form E for this service. Centres may only submit one enquiry per candidate per syllabus. (Note: enquiry by syllabus is not available for a service 5 enquiry.)Enquiry by component will be a review of • externally-assessed components as specified by the Centre. Please ensure that you list all components for review on the INT Form E, as CIE is unable to accept additional component enquiries for the same candidate/syllabus at a later date. Please also note that all components selected for same candidate/syllabus must be for the same service.

CIE will provide the services described in 9.2.1 to 9.2.8 for CIE examinations in response to enquiries about examination results.

9.2.1 Service 1 (Clerical re-check)

A full clerical re-check for an individual candidate or group of candidates.

This service will consist of:

(a) a re-check that all parts of the answer scripts were marked

(b) a re-check that the marks on the answer scripts were correctly totalled

(c) a re-check that the total mark for each component was correctly recorded on the computer system

(d) a re-check that any examiner or moderation adjustments, if applicable, were correctly applied

(e) a re-check on the totalling of component marks

(f) a re-check on the application of grade thresholds

(g) a re-check as to whether any allowances, (e.g. special consideration), have been applied.

9.2.2 Service 2 (Review of marking)

A review of the marking of externally-assessed components (excluding multiple-choice question papers) including a full clerical re-check.

This service will consist of:

(a) a clerical re-check as detailed in 9.2.1

(b) a re-consideration of the candidate’s mark for each externally-assessed component by checking the candidate’s scripts against the approved mark scheme for the component. The principal examiner for the component will usually undertake this and will advise CIE whether they should amend the original marks.

9.2.3 Service 3 (Review of marking and report)

A review of the marking of externally-assessed components (excluding multiple-choice question papers) including a full clerical re-check and detailed report on an individual candidate’s performance. This service will be will be slower than Service 2.

The service will consist of:


(b) a re-consideration of the candidate’s marks, as detailed in 9.2.2

(c) a report to the Centre by the reviewing examiner on the work of the candidate on each externally-assessed component involved in the enquiry, including comments on the strengths and weaknesses of the candidate’s work.

9.2.4 Service 4 (Review of marking and report on a group of candidates)

A review of the marking of externally-assessed components (excluding multiple-choice question papers) of a group of no fewer than 5 and no more than 15 candidates for a particular examination, including a full clerical re-check and a general report on the work of the group. CIE will not supply reports on the work of




individual candidates.


(a) a clerical re-check as detailed in 9.2.1 for each candidate in the group

(b) a re-consideration of the candidate’s marks, as detailed in 9.2.2, for each candidate in the group

(c) a general report to the Centre by the reviewing examiner on the work of the group of candidates on each externally-assessed component involved in the enquiry, including an indication of the strengths and weaknesses of the candidates’ work as a group.

9.2.5 Service 5 (Re-moderation of coursework with report – General Qualifications only)

A re-moderation of the Centre’s coursework marks for a component, together with a report on the assessment of the coursework of the candidates.

This service will consist of the following:

(a) a complete replication by a senior moderator of the original moderation process for the Centre’s coursework marks

(b) a report to the Centre by a senior moderator on the assessment of the coursework of the candidates.

CIE reserves the right to request for re-moderation further coursework samples, which the Centre must have kept under secure conditions and not returned to the candidates.

CIE will not accede to any request for the re-assessment by a senior moderator of the coursework of an individual candidate (unless there was only one candidate for the component in the Centre).

CIE cannot provide a re-moderation service where the Centre-assessed work is ephemeral and no suitable evidence is available.

For the CIPP qualification please refer to the CIPP Administrative Guide.

9.2.6 Service 6: Re-calculation of an AICE Diploma result

A recalculation of a candidate’s AICE Diploma result using a different permutation of the candidate’s syllabus results.

9.2.7 Service 7 (Review of marking, report and return of a copy of the marked script)

This service is not available to Centres that make their entries via ministries.

A review of the marking of externally-assessed components (excluding multiple-choice question papers) including a full clerical re-check and a detailed report on an individual candidate’s performance. This service will be slower than Service 2.



(b) a re-consideration of the candidate’s marks, as detailed in 9.2.2

(c) a report to the Centre as detailed in 9.2.3

(d) the return to the Centre of a copy of the candidate’s marked script with the report.

9.2.8 Service 8 (Review of marking, report and return of copies of the marked scripts for a group of candidates)

This service is not available to Centres that make their entries via ministries.

A review of the marking of externally-assessed components (excluding multiple-choice question papers) of a group of no fewer than 5 and no more than 15 candidates for a particular examination including a full clerical re-check and a general report on the work of the group. CIE will not supply reports on the work of individual candidates.



(a) a clerical re-check as detailed in 9.2.1 for each candidate in the group

(b) a re-consideration of the candidate’s marks, as detailed in 9.2.2, for each candidate in the group

(c) a general report to the Centre, as detailed in 9.2.4

(d) the return to the Centre of a copy of the marked script of each candidate in the group with the report.

9.3 Reports on multiple-choice components

When a Centre makes a service 3, 4, 7 or 8 request on behalf of a candidate who has taken a multiple-choice component, CIE will include with the report to the Centre a photocopy of the candidate’s MS4 answer sheet and a statement of the correct answers for the paper.

9.4 Multiple enquiries

CIE will allow only one enquiry about examination results for each candidate’s result in the externally-assessed components of a syllabus. Centres may, in addition, request service 5 (re-moderation of coursework and report) in that syllabus.

Centres may request different services for different candidates’ results in a syllabus.

Centres may make requests for the same candidate for the same or different services in more than one syllabus.

When making an enquiry by component, Centres must submit all enquiries for the same candidate/syllabus together. CIE cannot accept additional component enquiries for the same candidate/syllabus at a later date.

9.5 Time taken to deal with enquiries about examination results

CIE will deal with enquiries strictly in the order in which they are received. CIE will not be able to guarantee a date by which they will complete the work, but it will make every effort to report the outcome of the review of the marking or re-moderation as rapidly as possible. Wherever possible, CIE will report within 30 days of the receipt of the enquiry.

Once CIE processes the INT Form E it will send an acknowledgement letter to the Centre confirming the enquiry requested. If the Centre does not receive an acknowledgement letter it could mean that the INT FORM E has not arrived at CIE, so it has not processed the enquiry. Therefore, it is essential that the Centre contacts CIE if it does not receive an acknowledgement letter within two weeks of submitting the enquiry.

Please note that the process of destroying candidate scripts begins in early November for the June session and in early May for the November session. If CIE subsequently receive an enquiry it will not be possible to process it, as the scripts will have been destroyed.

9.6 Charging for enquiries about examination results

CIE will make a charge for its enquiries about examination results services. The charge for each service is stated on the INT FORM E. CIE will invoice the Centre for the enquiry service provided. In the case of Services 1, 2, 3 and 7, CIE will waive the charge if a grade change has resulted from the enquiry. In the case of Services 4, 5 and 8, CIE will waive the whole fee or a proportion of it as appropriate if a grade change for one or more candidates has resulted from the enquiry.

9.7 Outcome of enquiries about examination results

(a) Where an enquiry leads to a change in the candidate’s mark the syllabus grade may remain the same, go up or go down.

(b) Where an enquiry does not lead to a change in a candidate’s syllabus grade, CIE will not re-issue



a statement of results or certificate based upon a change to a candidate’s component grade or published percentage uniform marks.

(c) Where an enquiry leads to a reduction in a candidate’s mark and that mark is carried forward to a subsequent session, it will be the reduced mark that CIE uses to calculate the candidate’s grade in that subsequent session.

(d) Where an enquiry leads to a change to a candidate’s overall grade in a syllabus, CIE will:

(i) notify the Head of Centre/Parent Organisation in writing immediately

(ii) issue a revised statement of results

(iii) notify UCAS, and any other universities that have requested a similar arrangement

(iv) provide formal written confirmation of any grade change to any other university or other institution at the request of the Head of Centre/Parent Organisation

(v) issue a revised certificate (on return of the original certificate if CIE has already issued it)

(vi) waive all or part of the fee, as stated in 9.6 above.

9.7.1 Extensions to enquires

If CIE considers the outcome of an enquiry about examination results to bring into question the accuracy of the results for other candidates in that syllabus, CIE will notify the outcome of the original enquiry about examination results to the Head of Centre/Parent Organisation and CIE will also extend the enquiry about examination results to include any other candidate who may have been affected once informed consent has been received from both the Centre/Parent Organisation and the candidates involved. CIE will notify the Head of Centre/Parent Organisation of both the further investigation and the outcome.

9.8 Appeals against the outcome of enquiries about examination results

9.8.1 If, having received the result of any enquiry, a Head of Centre/Parent Organisation wishes to appeal against that outcome, they may submit an appeal to the

CIE Appeals Committee.

9.8.2 Heads of Centres/Parent Organisations must submit appeals, in writing, within 28 days of the date of the notification of the outcome of the enquiry.

9.8.3 The appeal will focus on whether CIE:

(i) used procedures which were consistent with CIE’s Code of Practice

(ii) applied its procedures properly and fairly in arriving at its judgements.

The Centre/Parent Organisations must state in any appeal in what way(s) it believes this not to have been the case.

9.8.4 The consideration of an appeal does not normally involve the further re-marking of candidates’ work.

9.8.5 The appeal process will consist of two stages.

(a) Stage 1: A senior member of CIE’s staff will initially consider the appeal. That person will notify the Centre in writing whether the appeal is being upheld within 21 days of CIE’s receipt of the appeal.

(b) Stage 2: If the appeal is not upheld at Stage 1, the Head of Centre/Parent Organisation may make a further appeal to Stage 2, but must do so in writing within 14 days of the date of the outcome of the Stage 1 appeal. A Stage 2 appeal involves the presentation of the case to the CIE Appeals Committee, which has an independent Chair, and members. The Head of Centre/Parent Organisation may attend the Stage 2 appeal Committee in person to present the case, or may submit a written case only. If the Head of Centre/Parent Organisation chooses to attend in person, a written case must still be submitted so as to be available to the Committee members before the meeting.

9.8.6 CIE will inform Heads of Centres/Parent Organisations in writing of the outcome of a Stage 2 appeal within 28 days of the date of receiving the Stage 2 appeal.

9.8.7 The outcome of an appeal is regarded as final and CIE will not enter into further correspondence about an appeal with Heads of Centres/Parent Organisations after notification of the outcome.



9.8.8 It is the responsibility of the Head of Centre/Parent Organisation to forward the outcome of an appeal to the candidates and parents as soon as it is received. The Head of Centre/Parent Organisation must also notify the candidates and parents that this outcome is regarded as final.

9.8.9 CIE will invoice the Centre/Parent Organisation for the appeal unless the appeal is upheld or unless at least one candidate’s result is altered in consequence of the appeal. In the case of Services 1, 2, 3 and 7, CIE will credit the fee for the enquiry about examination results to the Centre/Parent Organisation’s account if a grade change has resulted from the appeal. In the case of services 4, 5 and 8, CIE will credit the whole fee for the enquiry about examination results, or a proportion of it as appropriate, to the Centre/Parent Organisation’s account if a grade change for one or more candidates has resulted from the appeal.

9.9 Use of returned scripts

9.9.1 When Centres receive copies of scripts under services 7 and 8, only teachers who are members of staff at that Centre may see the scripts, or Centres may return them directly to the candidates concerned.

9.9.2 Centres are advised not to use such scripts as examples for other students unless they have received the prior consent of the candidates and/or they remove the candidates’ names from the scripts.


University of Cambridge International Examinations124 |

cie 2010 handbook for centres - igcse - o-levels - a-levels

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