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Cambridge Handbook 2012 (International)

Instructions for conducting Cambridge examinations Valid for examinations in 2012

Exams Officers and Principals

Cambridge for

Cambridge Handbook contents


AZ of useful terms Centre and Cambridge Associate responsibilities 1 Preparation Timetable clashes and deviations Access arrangements 2 Entries Candidates Estimating entries Making final entries Entry fees, late entries and entry amendments Retaking examinations and coursework components 3 Teacher assessment Centre-based assessment Non-coursework speaking tests 4 Before the exams Pre-exam despatches Storing confidential materials Preparing the exam room Training invigilators 5 Exam day At the beginning of the examination During the examination Leaving the examination room At the end of the examination Despatching scripts Dealing with the unexpected Special consideration Malpractice and maladministration Special instructions for particular examinations 6 Results and certificates Provisional examination results Examination grades Certificates Enquiries about results services Index 81 81 82 83 86 56 58 60 60 61 62 64 68 74 50 51 52 54 43 46 39 41 41 41 42 16 18 5 7

Cambridge Handbook 2012 (International) 2 Contents

Key to icons
To make it easier for you to find the information you need quickly we have developed a set of icons especially for exams officers. You will see them throughout this handbook. They will help you pick out certain bits of text and get to the information you need quickly, for example, whenever there is a reference to CIE Direct you will see the Reference CIE Direct icon as shown below.

Updated information
Highlights new information so you know what has changed from last year.

Important dates
Highlights the key dates on each page.

Reference CIE Direct


You will see this icon whenever there is a reference in the text to CIE Direct.

>

Reference Cambridge Administrative Guide


You will see this icon whenever there is a reference in the text to the Cambridge Administrative Guide.

Administrative forms
Appears next to the administrative forms referenced on a page.

Important information
Highlights the key pieces of information on each page.

Cambridge Handbook 2012 (International) Key to icons 3

Introducing the Cambridge Exams Cycle

There are many different activities that need to take place to successfully deliver an exam. Sometimes, it can be challenging to remember what needs to happen when. We run two exams series a year, one in June and the other in November, so many of our exams officers are managing different processes for different series at the same time. We have simplified our processes and grouped them into six different phases to help you keep track of what you need to do when. We call this the Cambridge Exams Cycle. The cycle includes every phase of the process from the planning and preparation that takes place before you enter your candidates to giving your candidates their certificates. The cycle has six phases. 1 2 3 4 5 6 Preparation Entries Teacher assessment Before the exams Exam day Results and certificates

All our support for exams is structured around this exams cycle, so at a glance you can see which phase of the cycle the communication relates to - helping you prioritise and manage your workload.

Cambridge Handbook 2012 (International) 4 Introducing the Cambridge Exams Cycle

AZ of useful terms
In this handbook the words listed below have the following meanings.

Centre status
Centre status is awarded to a school, institution or organisation once it has been approved by and registered with Cambridge as a Centre. Cambridge can withdraw this status in line with the conditions of this handbook and the Centres agreement with Cambridge.

Access arrangements
A pre-examination arrangement made on behalf of a candidate with particular needs.

Agreement
The contract between a Centre or Cambridge Associate and Cambridge for providing assessments in a form specified by Cambridge.

CIE Direct
CIE Direct is a secure extranet website for the direct submission and transfer of data and other information between Centres and Cambridge. https://direct.cie.org.uk
Entries 2 Results and certificates 6 6 Exam day 5 Before the exams 4 Teacher assessment 3

Assessment
The method used to evaluate a candidates performance, for example, written examination, coursework.

Exams 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 Cambridge examinations. The Head of Centre may also be the exams officer.

Associate Centres (formerly known as Sub, Attached or Affiliated Centres)


Centres which provide Cambridge assessments and qualifications under the supervision of a Cambridge Associate.

Full Centre Supervision


A specific type of supervision for examination candidates. It means that the candidate must either be: under examination conditions; or, supervised by the Centre in line with the conditions laid out below.

Cambridge Administrative Guide


A guide that provides information and guidance on all the administrative tasks and activities Cambridge exams officers need to carry out during each examination series.

Cambridge Associate (formerly known as Distributor or 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 through an agreement with Cambridge.

Centres must make sure that candidates are in a supervised environment and there is at least one invigilator for every 30 candidates. When supervised, candidates must not: be in the same room as any other people except for invigilators, and candidates taking the same examination have access to telephones, mobile phones, laptops/computers with and without internet access, or any other means of external communication communicate in any way with anyone who is not under Full Centre Supervision at that Centre.

Candidate
A person who has been entered for an assessment.

Centre
A school, institution or organisation approved by and registered with Cambridge for the entry of candidates to Cambridge qualifications and to carry out the related assessments.

When supervised, candidates may have access to their books and notes, and talk to each other, provided that they do not disturb candidates taking an examination.

Cambridge Handbook 2012 (International) AZ of useful terms 5

Preparation 1

AZ of useful terms

Head of Centre
In this handbook, a Head of Centre is either the head or principal of a Centre, or the person legally responsible for an institution that is approved to offer Cambridge examinations.

Sub, Attached or Affiliated Centres


These are now known as Associate Centres. See Associate Centres for definition.

Venue
A location where written examinations or assessments are taken.

Invigilator/Supervisor
The person appointed by the Head of Centre to be responsible for the proper conduct of a particular examination in line with Cambridges regulations.

Key Time
A time, local to each country, stipulated by Cambridge, for example 14.00, when all candidates must either be in an exam or under Full Centre Supervision. Key Time will always be expressed as GMT/UTC.

Parent Centres
These are now known as Cambridge Associates. See Cambridge Associate for definition.

Parent Organisation
These are now known as Cambridge Associates. See Cambridge Associate for definition.

Series
A group of examinations in the same range, for example, Cambridge IGCSE, Cambridge International AS and A Level, with the same closing date for entries. A series is identified by a series month and year.

Session
A period in a day in which an examination takes place, which is either in the morning or afternoon.

Special arrangements
These are now known as access arrangements. See access arrangements for definition.

Special consideration
A post-examination adjustment made to a candidates mark, by an awarding body, to make allowances for any adverse circumstances, for example illness, bereavement or temporary injury.

Cambridge Handbook 2012 (International) 6 AZ of useful terms

Centre and Cambridge Associate responsibilities


This handbook is written in the English language; if translated into any other language, the English language text will prevail. A The regulations and procedures detailed in this handbook apply to the assessments and qualifications provided by University of Cambridge International Examinations. Under the terms of the agreement with Cambridge (the Agreement), the Centre must keep to the terms and conditions set out in this handbook, along with the documents detailed in paragraph (C) below. By registering with, and submitting entries to Cambridge, the Centre agrees to be bound by the terms and conditions, processes and procedures set out in this handbook, the >Cambridge Administrative Guide and all Centre registration documents and agreements issued by Cambridge. All services provided to the Centre by Cambridge are conditional on the payment of all fees due, in accordance with Cambridges payment terms and the Agreement. Cambridge may issue: extra administrative or procedural documents or instructions for the conduct of specific examinations (for example, written papers, coursework, orals and practicals).
Before the exams 4 Results and certificates 6 6 Exam day 5 Entries 2 Teacher assessment 3 Preparation 1

In this section
7 9 10 Centre responsibilities Cambridge Associate responsibilities Associate Centre responsibilities D

Such documents also form part of the Agreement. F Cambridge reserves the right to alter the handbook and any of its other documentation, with any changes taking immediate effect unless otherwise stated. Cambridge will communicate any changes to Centres. This handbook is interpreted in accordance with English law and all disputes shall be referred to and be under the jurisdiction of the High Court of Justice in England and Wales.

Important information
Any fees referred to in the handbook are on the relevant application forms which are available from www.cie.org.uk/examsofficers

Centre responsibilities

A1 The Centre is responsible for the administration and conduct of Cambridges assessments. A2 The Centre must not offer courses leading to Cambridge qualifications without first acquiring from Cambridge written approval of its eligibility to do so. A3 If the Centre wants to offer qualifications beyond those initially approved it must request further approval by submitting Preparation Form 5 to Cambridge. A4 The Centre must notify Cambridge if it changes premises. Cambridge may inspect any new premises. The Centre must also inform Cambridge of changes to contact details, including changes to exam staff, email addresses, telephone or fax numbers.

Administrative forms
Forms available from the Exams Officers section of the Cambridge website www.cie.org.uk/examsofficers Change of Qualifications/ Syllabus Eligibility: Preparation Form 5

Cambridge Handbook 2012 (International) Centre and Cambridge Associate responsibilities 7

Centre and Cambridge Associate responsibilities

A5 Cambridge accepts notification of changes via CIE Direct, by email, in writing or by fax on official Centre stationery. Cambridge will not accept notification of changes of address by telephone. A6 The Centre must make sure that: A6.1 the correct version, including the year and series, of the syllabus is administered for each examination series A6.2 all teachers and tutors involved in the delivery of qualifications understand the subject area concerned. A7 The Centre must not bring the name, reputation or interests of Cambridge, its employees, or its products or services into disrepute in any way. A8 If a Centre does not keep to the processes and procedures set out in this handbook, Cambridge shall, at its discretion, be entitled to take such action as it deems appropriate, which may include: A8.1 requiring the Centre to take remedial action A8.2 requiring the Centre to undergo further inspection and quality assurance visits A8.3 removing Centre status and terminating any contract it has with the Centre. A9 Cambridge may require the Centre to pay any and all costs incurred by Cambridge in the conduct of any required inspection or other quality assurance. These costs may include additional inspections or expenditure required as a result of any actions or inaction by the Centre. A10 Cambridge may require the Centre to pay any of the costs incurred by Cambridge. This includes indirect costs and the cost of Cambridge securing an assessment, where the assessments integrity has been compromised because of the Centres actions or inactions, whether negligent or otherwise.

Inspections

B1 The Centre must co-operate with and facilitate any inspection by or on behalf of Cambridge, including giving access to secure storage. B2 If the Centre changes premises, Cambridge may carry out a re-inspection. The Centre will pay Cambridges inspection charges. B3 Cambridge usually carries out unannounced inspections when examinations are being held. Cambridge inspectors may also inspect the arrangements for the security of examination material and for conducting examinations at times outside the examination period. Cambridge may withdraw Centre status if an inspection shows the Centre not to be satisfactory.

Candidates

C1 Centres will correspond with candidates on every aspect of the examinations on behalf of Cambridge. C2 Centres will issue the following to each of their candidates: C2.1 details of the dates and times of their examinations C2.2 a statement of the candidates examination entry C2.3 the candidates provisional results. C2.4 any certificate issued by Cambridge. C3 Centres must make sure that candidates have access to suitable accommodation and specified equipment and materials, including for examinations that involve practical tests. C4 Centres must confirm the identity of all their candidates in each assessment, including private candidates. Centres must make sure that candidates know that their data will be passed to Cambridge and other third parties and gain their consent for this. C5 Centres are responsible for the submission of candidates work and must make sure that: C5.1 the work in every candidates assessment submission meets the criteria in the syllabus for the examination series

Cambridge Handbook 2012 (International) 8 Centre and Cambridge Associate responsibilities

Centre and Cambridge Associate responsibilities

C5.2 candidates work is produced, and, where appropriate, marked internally, moderated and despatched according to Cambridges instructions C5.3 it is the candidates own work and is identified as such.

D6 The Centre will appoint suitable invigilators and must make sure examinations are carried out in accordance with part 5 of this handbook. D7 Centres will work with Cambridge to prevent malpractice or maladministration and, in particular, shall: D7 .1 report any established, suspected or alleged cases of malpractice by a candidate D7 .2 report any malpractice or maladministration by a member of staff D7 .3 assist in any investigation into malpractice or maladministration suspected by Cambridge D7 .4 provide information and advice Cambridge may require to assist with any investigation (see part 5) D8 The Centre will submit and process any result enquiry or appeal in accordance with the regulations (see part 6). D9 The Centre must keep unclaimed certificates under secure conditions for a minimum of 12 months from date of issue and not destroy unclaimed certificates (see part 6).

Examination administration

D1.1 details of estimated and actual entries D1.2 marks for internally-assessed components D1.3 any other information that Cambridge requires in relation to its examinations, in line with its instructions, for example forecast grades. D2 If the Centre wants to make any applications for access arrangements or special considerations, it must send these to Cambridge in accordance with the regulations and guidance laid out in this handbook. D3 If the Centre wants to make changes to the venue or timetable they must apply to Cambridge in accordance with the regulations laid out in this handbook. D4 The Centre is responsible for the receipt and security of examination materials at all times. Centres must carry out the following in accordance with Cambridges regulations: D4.1 secure storage of all examination materials D4.2 distribution of examination papers to candidates D4.3 collection of scripts and question papers at the end of each examination D4.4 secure return of scripts to Cambridge D4.5 check that the correct versions of materials for the Centres administrative zone are received. D5 The Centre will make sure that there is constant and effective supervision of the candidates.

Cambridge Associate responsibilities

E2 Where it says Centres in this handbook this should be read to include Cambridge Associates. E3 Cambridge Associates must apply to register their Centres with Cambridge. Cambridge can refuse such applications. E4 A Cambridge Associate must comply with the terms and conditions in this handbook and any other communications issued by Cambridge.

Cambridge Handbook 2012 (International) Centre and Cambridge Associate responsibilities 9

Results and certificates 6 6

Exam day 5

E1 Cambridge Associates must carry out all obligations for Centres and Cambridge Associates specified in this handbook and any supplementary documentation. The Cambridge Associate has full responsibility for the administration of all assessments in the Centres associated to it.

Before the exams 4

Teacher assessment 3

Entries 2

D1 If a Centre wants to make examination entries they must send the following to Cambridge:

Preparation 1

Centre and Cambridge Associate responsibilities

E5 As well as to the complying with all the duties of a Centre (see sections AD), Cambridge Associates will do the following and agree to do so on behalf of their Centres: E5.1 issue to each of their Centres details of the dates and times of their candidates examinations; statements of the candidates examination entries; the candidates provisional results; and any certificates issued by Cambridge E5.2 inspect their Centres in accordance with the regulations stated in this handbook E5.3 fill in Preparation Form 5 and return it to Cambridge Customer Services should they or one of their Centres want to change its qualification or syllabus eligibilities. E6 Cambridge will inspect Cambridge Associates and their Centres to make sure they comply with the regulations in this handbook. E7 If the Cambridge Associate changes premises, Cambridge may carry out a re-inspection. The Cambridge Associate will pay Cambridges inspection charges. E8 The Cambridge Associate and its Centres must co-operate with any inspections by or on behalf of Cambridge, including giving access to secure storage. E9 The Cambridge Associate must have any additional obligations it wants to impose on its Centres approved by Cambridge in writing before they introduce them.

E12 The Cambridge Associate will submit to Cambridge details of the fees they will charge to their Centres. They must get approval before charging them. E13 The Cambridge Associate will give its Centres reasonable notice of fees and of any changes.

Inspections of Associate Centres

F1 Cambridge Associates will carry out an initial registration approval inspection of each of their Centres. F2 A Cambridge Associate will regularly inspect its Centres to make sure that they have the right facilities, equipment and teaching resources to deliver the curriculum and to prepare candidates for entry to Cambridge qualifications. F3 Cambridge Associates have to cover the costs of inspecting their Centres. F4 A Cambridge Associate should make their inspection reports available to Cambridge and inform Cambridge of its inspections schedule at the beginning of each year. F5 Where there is a conflict between inspection required as part of an Associate Centres agreement and this handbook the agreement must be followed. Associate Centres must inform Cambridge if they think there is a conflict.

Associate Centre responsibilities

E10 The Cambridge Associate may only collect fees in relation to assessment from its Centres in accordance with the Agreement and handbook. E11 The Cambridge Associate is responsible for the payment to Cambridge of their fees and their Centres fees, in particular: E11.1 Cambridges examination fees E11.2 Cambridges annual registration fee, if any E11.3 inspection fees.

G1 Associate Centres must keep to the terms and conditions for Centres in this handbook where applicable. G2 Associate Centres must also keep to any specific terms agreed with their Cambridge Associate in relation to the subject matter of this handbook.

Administrative forms
Forms available from the Exams Officers section of the Cambridge website www.cie.org.uk/examsofficers Change of Qualifications/Syllabus Eligibility: Preparation Form 5

Cambridge Handbook 2012 (International) 10 Centre and Cambridge Associate responsibilities

Centre and Cambridge Associate responsibilities

Communication with Cambridge

H1 The Centre should choose the method of communication most appropriate to the subject matter and the urgency of the communication, unless the regulations specify a particular means. For general administrative queries email is the preferred means of communication. H2 Unless told to do otherwise, Centres should address all communications to Cambridge Customer Services. Cambridge Associates must make sure their Centres communicate directly with them rather than Cambridge. H3 All correspondence between the Centre and Cambridge must be in English. This applies even when assessments are offered in a language other than English. H4 The Head of Centre, or exams officer, must sign all letters from the Centre to Cambridge. H5 Centres can email international@cie.org.uk. H6 Unless instructed otherwise Centres should send written correspondence to: Customer Services University of Cambridge International Examinations 1 Hills Road Cambridge CB1 2EU United Kingdom If another address is specified on an administrative form or accompanying instructions, Centres must send the form to that address. H7 Centres must include the following in their messages: H7 .1 Centre name and number H7 .2 name, position and title, of the member of staff sending the message H7 .3 for continuing email correspondence, the reference number included in Cambridges initial response. H8 Centres must not attach files larger than 2 MB to emails.

H9 Centres can also contact Cambridge by filling in the online feedback form at: www.cie.org.uk/contactus/ H10 Centres must check for communications from Cambridge regularly and provide Cambridge with up-to-date contact information, including email addresses for their exams officer, Head of Centre and any other key staff. H11 Centres will inform Cambridge of email address changes by contacting international@cie.org.uk

I
I1 I2

Telephone communication
To telephone Cambridge, contact Customer Services on +44 1223 553554. When responding to a communication from Cambridge or following up a previous contact, Centres should use the telephone number provided. Centres should get written confirmation of any telephone response concerning Cambridges regulations. Cambridge does not accept responsibility for any misinterpretation of information, advice or guidance given by telephone.

I3

Cambridge software and online services

J2 Centres must also comply with the Terms of Use of Cambridge online services and software while using them. J3 Centres may use Cambridge products that require the use of particular software or services. To use software from Cambridge, Centres must enter into licensing agreements and must use software in accordance with them.

Cambridge Handbook 2012 (International) Centre and Cambridge Associate responsibilities 11

Results and certificates 6 6

Exam day 5

J1 Centres must make sure that user names and passwords issued by Cambridge are only given to staff authorised to access the relevant online services or software. They must not give login information to candidates or to any other unauthorised person. Failure to comply may lead to Cambridge suspending all services with the Centre or terminating the Agreement.

Before the exams 4

Teacher assessment 3

Entries 2

Preparation 1

Centre and Cambridge Associate responsibilities

Copyright in examination material

K5.5 digital media K5.6 photographs K5.7 maps.

K1 Copyright and any other intellectual property rights in all material (including examinations, assessments and syllabuses) delivered by Cambridge to the Centre under the Agreement is owned by and shall remain with Cambridge. K2 The Centre may reproduce copies of past question papers and other materials for which Cambridge holds copyright, for internal Centre purposes, provided that copies are: K2.1 limited to one per candidate entered for the syllabus K2.2 used exclusively by candidates at the Centre in connection with their class work or internal assessments K2.3 not offered for sale or distribution under any circumstances K2.4 reproduced with all Cambridge copyright symbols, trademarks, acknowledgement and notices intact

Ownership of Cambridge question papers

L1 All Cambridge examination question papers remain the property of Cambridge. The Centre can use the paper after the examination, in accordance with either: i the 24-hour secure storage regulation

ii regulations specific to the conduct of a particular examination component. L2 Cambridge retains all intellectual property rights to the papers.

Copyright and candidates work

M1 The copyright in a candidates work remains with the candidate, subject to clause M2. M2 By submitting work to Cambridge a candidate grants a perpetual, irrevocable and royaltyfree licence to Cambridge to use any answer scripts, coursework or extracts (providing the candidate remains anonymous) for: educational presentations, materials or products that Cambridge may publish education purposes, for example, standards setting, training or to demonstrate standards in the recognition of Cambridges qualifications by universities or other organisations maintaining the integrity of assessments or to identify plagiarism.

K2.5 not claimed to be approved by Cambridge K2.6 not passed to any third party. K3 The Centre must not distribute past papers electronically, including on websites only accessible over the Centres intranet. K4 If staff at the Centre want to use material owned by Cambridge in any publications they are developing, they must get permission from Cambridge. K5 Cambridge cannot give permission to reproduce any material it does not own. This includes: K5.1 text taken from books published for or on behalf of Cambridge or with the approval of Cambridge K5.2 third-party copyright material used in past papers; Centres can identify these items by the copyright acknowledgements which appear under each item, or at the back of the paper K5.3 musical scores K5.4 audio or video material

Centres must tell candidates the regulations on copyright and candidates work before the examination.

Ownership of assessed material

N1 All material submitted for assessment will become the physical property of Cambridge. N2 Cambridge will not return examination answer scripts to Centres, except for: examination work for Cambridge IGCSE and Cambridge International AS and

Cambridge Handbook 2012 (International) 12 Centre and Cambridge Associate responsibilities

Centre and Cambridge Associate responsibilities

A Level Art and Design for which the return fees are charged copies of answer scripts as part of the service of enquiries about results.

Cambridge identity

N3 Centres must request the return of examination work for Cambridge IGCSE Art and Design by completing Teacher assessment Form 5. N4 Cambridge will normally return to the Centre Cambridge IGCSE, O Level, International AS and A Level coursework submitted for external marking or external moderation, but may keep copies of some items for awarding and archive purposes. N5 If Cambridge decides to keep original Cambridge IGCSE, O Level, International AS and A Level coursework it will tell the Centre which items it wants to keep. Cambridge will not tell Centres when it decides to keep copies of any work. N6 For other qualifications, Cambridge will not normally return to the Centre assessments submitted for external marking or external moderation.

P1 Cambridge identity refers to the Cambridge logo and associated text. Centres and Cambridge Associates are issued with official Cambridge logos, text and sets of images when they register. P2 The following Cambridge identities are authorised for Centres use; Centre status dictates which Cambridge identity it should use.

Referring to Cambridge

O1 The Centre must refer to Cambridge as Cambridge or University of Cambridge International Examinations, and must not refer to Cambridge as the University of Cambridge or Cambridge University. The Centre must not use the acronym UCIE. O2 University of Cambridge International Examinations is part of the Cambridge Assessment group. Cambridge Assessment is the brand name of the University of Cambridge Local Examinations Syndicate (UCLES), a department of the University of Cambridge. O3 When translating University of Cambridge International Examinations into another language, the most appropriate wording is the examinations department of the University of Cambridge (England).

P3 Cambridge also has a number of trademarks, both registered and unregistered, known in this handbook as the Cambridge marks. This means any trademark, registered mark or design or any other identifier that is identified with Cambridge, Cambridge University, University of Cambridge Local Examinations Syndicate or Cambridge Assessment. These include Cambridge, University of Cambridge International Examinations,

Administrative forms
Forms available from the Exams Officers section of the Cambridge website www.cie.org.uk/examsofficers Returning Cambridge IGCSE Art and Design Work: Teacher assessment Form 5

Cambridge Handbook 2012 (International) Centre and Cambridge Associate responsibilities 13

Results and certificates 6 6

Exam day 5

Before the exams 4

Teacher assessment 3

Entries 2

Preparation 1

Centre and Cambridge Associate responsibilities

University of Cambridge Local Examinations Syndicate, UCLES, the University of Cambridge and Cambridge Assessment.

Q5.5 not use the Cambridge identity or marks as part of its email web address. Q6 The Centre may: Q6.1 reproduce the Cambridge identity in full colour or in a single colour, subject to sections Q and R Q6.2 use the Cambridge identity in printed leaflets and brochures, advertisements, posters, subject to sections Q and R Q6.3 communicate its Centre status in the text of information or publicity material. Q7 The Cambridge 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. Q8 This handbook does not transfer any copyright in the Cambridge identity and Cambridge marks arrangements from Cambridge to the Centre. Q9 Permission to use the Cambridge identity is dependent upon the Centre continuing to hold Cambridge Centre status. If Centre status is withdrawn, its use must stop immediately. Q10 The Centre must not reproduce Cambridge certificates in any form.

Regulations governing Cambridge Centre status identity

Q1 If the Centre does not follow the instructions in this handbook or misuses the Cambridge identity or Cambridge marks, its Centre status may be withdrawn and the Agreement terminated. Q2 The Centre may use the Cambridge identity appropriate to its status. Q3 The Centre must submit to Cambridge Customer Services, by email, copies of all its planned uses of the Cambridge identity and gain approval before use. Q4 The Centre must always: Q4.1 reproduce the Cambridge identity in the format provided by Cambridge Q4.2 use the Cambridge identity along with its own logo and name Q4.3 place the Cambridge identity at the bottom of any stationery, including letterheads and business cards. Q5 The Centre must: Q5.1 not provide the Cambridge identity or Cambridge marks for use by any organisations other than registered Centres Q5.2 not use the Cambridge identity at the top of any document. It must make sure that where the Cambridge identity is used on a document, it is smaller and less prominent (lower) than the logo and name of the Centre itself and of any associated logo Q5.3 not use parts of the Cambridge identity separately Q5.4 not use the Cambridge identity or marks in certification or financial documentation issued by the Centre, for example, attendance certificates, receipts or invoices

Approval for the use of the Cambridge identity

R1 Cambridge is the sole interpreter of the conditions for use of the Cambridge identity and marks. Cambridge will make all decisions about interpretation of the conditions of use. R2 Cambridge investigates all reports of improper use of the Cambridge identity, and insists that publications that do not comply with these guidelines are withdrawn immediately.

Cambridge Handbook 2012 (International) 14 Centre and Cambridge Associate responsibilities

Centre and Cambridge Associate responsibilities

Access to assessments equal opportunities

S1 Cambridge is committed to equality of opportunity for candidates, in accordance with current UK legislation in relation to gender, ethnic origin, religion, age and disability. S2 There is a policy of open access for all Cambridge qualifications, promoted in all areas of assessment activity. Cambridge aims to overcome inequality in relation to gender, ethnic origin, religion, age and disability in: S2.1 the assessment process S2.2 the arrangements made for candidates with special requirements to facilitate access to Cambridge qualifications S2.3 the interpretation of data relating to the implementation of policies and procedures of the scheme S2.4 the monitoring of all publications produced for Cambridge qualifications.

Access and private candidates


Before the exams 4

T1 Specific regulations govern the access of private candidates to Cambridge assessments.

Cambridge Handbook 2012 (International) Centre and Cambridge Associate responsibilities 15

Results and certificates 6 6

Exam day 5

Teacher assessment 3

Entries 2

Preparation 1

1 Preparation
1.1 Timetable clashes and deviations
Before the exams series starts Centres should study the final timetable to see if they can identify any potential timetable clashes. This will help them to think about potential ways to resolve the clashes. Centres have to wait until they have submitted their entries, and received their timetable clash report from Cambridge before applying for a timetable deviation. Timetable clashes occur when, for various reasons, candidates cannot take papers in the timetabled session. In some circumstances (for example, if candidates are taking different papers timetabled in the same session) Centres can apply for a timetable deviation to avoid the clash. Centres cannot make timetable deviations unless Cambridge gives written consent and until they have received confirmation of their final entries. For each examination series, Cambridge sends a final version of the timetable to Centres. Centres must make sure that their candidates take Cambridge examinations in the session shown on the final timetable and in accordance with the Key Time regulations. For more information on Key Times and Full Centre Supervision see part 4. When telling candidates the dates and times of examinations, Centres must use the final timetable only, not any provisional timetable. Cambridge can refuse an application for a timetable deviation if it could potentially threaten the security of the question paper.

In this section
16 18 1.1 1.2 Timetable clashes and deviations Access arrangements

1.1.1

Submitting timetable deviations applications

(a) Centres must fill in a separate application form for each syllabus and component. Centres can submit their application using Preparation Form 2. Centres must submit all applications for timetable deviations by the date specified in the >Cambridge Administrative Guide. (b) It is up to the Head of Centre to suggest arrangements for resolving a clash of two or more papers. The proposals should make it possible for candidates to take the papers on the day on which they are timetabled. If this is not possible the time of the examination can be moved to no more than 24 hours

Administrative forms Important information


If the period of Full Centre Supervision is more than four hours the Centre will need to apply for a timetable deviation. Forms available from the Exams Officers section of the Cambridge website www.cie.org.uk/examsofficers Timetable Deviation and Additional Sessions: Preparation Form 2

Cambridge Handbook 2012 (International) 16 1 Preparation

Timetable clashes and deviations

after the published timetable date. When this happens the Centre must guarantee Full Centre Supervision of the candidates during the period between the start of the timetabled examination and the start of the rescheduled examination. (c) Candidates are never allowed to take an examination on an earlier day than that scheduled on the timetable. (d) Cambridge will only consider timetable deviations for candidates directly involved in any clash. However, Cambridge may make an exception if it is not possible for the Centre to invigilate the examination in two sittings, or if they have 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 carry out these examinations. The Centre can also allow a supervised break between the papers within the session. The Centre must follow all arrangements for invigilating candidates during and between examinations, and make sure the question papers remain secure. (f) If the total duration of the papers to be taken in one session (either during the morning session or the afternoon session) exceeds 3 hours and 45 minutes, then the Centre can ask for a timetable deviation. Cambridge will only consider requests to move a paper to the following day if the total duration of papers to be taken on one day exceeds 6 hours.

away for the candidate to arrive in time to sit the second paper on the set day.

1.1.2

Cases in which Cambridge may consider a timetable deviation

Examples of cases in which Cambridge may consider a timetable deviation are given below. A clash between examinations which Cambridge has timetabled in the same session (except prohibited syllabus combinations), that exceed the time allowance. Candidates are assumed to be capable of taking examinations 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 (for example, a hospital appointment, attendance at court). Participation of candidates in events at an international level.
Before the exams 4 Results and certificates 6 6 Exam day 5

1.1.3

Unacceptable reasons for a timetable deviation

These include: a clash with another awarding bodys examination at the same level and in the same subject, or a subject with significant overlapping content being required to sit three or more different subject papers on the same day clashes with a school function or closure participation in national or local events holidays (for example, family holidays, public holidays, national holidays, religious holidays).

(g) If a candidate is entered at two different Centres and is required to take examinations in both Centres on the same day, Cambridge may allow the entering Centre to take a paper to the second Centre if security can be guaranteed. Cambridge will give instructions in each case. Cambridge will only do this in cases where the second Centre is too far

Important information
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.

Cambridge Handbook 2012 (International) 1 Preparation 17

Teacher assessment 3

Entries 2

Preparation 1

Access arrangements

1.1.4

Extra session for practical examinations and listening tests for Cambridge IGCSE, O Level, Cambridge International AS and A Level

Head of Centre responsible if it is found that there has been any breach of regulations. Cambridge may take action against the Centre, and that action could include removal of Cambridge registered Centre status. (b) The supervising adult is required to give the Centre a written guarantee of security. This should confirm that they will collect candidate(s) from the Centre and deliver them back. The Centre must keep this statement until the end of the result enquiry period, unless Cambridge requests the statement beforehand. (c) A member of Centre staff should normally carry out any necessary overnight supervision of a candidate although, in cases where the Centre feels that parental supervision can be guaranteed, Cambridge may accept this. The person appointed must supervise the candidate from the end of one examination to the start of the other examination; this includes collecting them from and delivering them to the Centre. The candidate must have no outside contact with anyone taking the This includes telephone calls, examination. text messages, faxes, emails and internet access. The Head of Centre must be fully satisfied that arrangements will maintain the security of the examination. (d) Any infringement of the conditions governing overnight supervision may lead to the application of penalties and sanctions to the candidates examinations.

(a) Centres that do not have enough 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 extra sessions. Centres intending to hold extra sessions must submit a timetable deviation request as soon as possible and at least four weeks before the day of the practical examination. Centres do not need to list the candidates concerned when submitting the form. However, the Centre must make accurate seating plans and attendance records for each session and keep these until the end of the result enquiry period. For the practical examinations, the Centre must supply copies of the seating plan and attendance records with the supervisors report. (b) The examination may be taken by several groups in different sessions, with staff supervision to make sure that security is maintained. There must be no contact between groups taking examinations in different sessions and all conduct must comply with the regulations for Key Time and Full Centre Supervision. (c) Cambridge will acknowledge applications either by letter or with the return of the application form, stamped Board Approved.

1.1.5

Supervision arrangements

1.1.6

(a) Supervision, because of a timetable deviation, should normally be carried out 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), Cambridge is prepared to accept supervision by another responsible adult acceptable to the Centre and the candidate. The Head of Centre must be satisfied that such an arrangement will maintain the security of the examination. Cambridge will hold the

Communicating decisions to Centres

Cambridge will give Centres a written decision about their timetable deviation as quickly as possible.

1.2

Access arrangements

Cambridge recognises that some candidates have coped with the learning demands of a course and can demonstrate attainment in the skills being assessed. However, the standard assessment arrangements may present unnecessary barriers. Such barriers may result from:

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Access arrangements

a permanent or long-term disability or learning difficulty a temporary disability, illness or indisposition the immediate circumstances of the assessment.

3. Modified papers: Centres need to apply for these in advance of the exams. Cambridge considers all applications on an individual basis. The Centre making the entry must submit the application. Cambridge will not accept applications from candidates or parents/carers.

It is the responsibility of the Head of Centre entering the candidate to make sure that they base any request on behalf of a candidate on firm evidence of a barrier to assessment of attainment. Once Cambridge has agreed arrangements, the Centre must observe the regulations governing those arrangements. Failure to keep to the regulations may lead to the disqualification of the candidate. A reasonable adjustment is any action that helps to reduce the effect of a disability or difficulty that places the candidate at a substantial disadvantage in an assessment situation. Not every arrangement is permitted in every assessment, nor may the candidate require the same degree of assistance in every subject.

(c) Access arrangements must not compromise the competence standards being assessed, and will therefore be restricted in certain syllabuses (for example, a reader cannot be permitted in a specification where reading is the focus of the assessment). (d) English not being the candidates first language is not a valid reason for an application.

1.2.1

Definition of access arrangements

(f)

Centres should determine access arrangements in relation to the defined needs of individual candidates.

1. Access arrangements: Centres must get permission from Cambridge to use these. 2. Centre-delegated access arrangements: Centres need to notify Cambridge if they use these.

(a) Cambridge will not permit access arrangements if they affect the competence standard being tested. (b) Centres should consult Cambridge before the commencement of a course to make sure that appropriate access arrangements are available for a candidate with a known permanent disability or learning difficulty. (c) Some types of impairment affect the candidates ability to demonstrate one or more of the objectives. Candidates need to be aware if they are choosing a course

Important information
Read Cambridges good practice guide to running exams using access arrangements. Download it from www.cie.org.uk/examsofficers

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Exam day 5

Access arrangements are pre-exam arrangements made on behalf of a candidate with particular needs. For example, the use of a scribe, modified papers or extra time. There are three different groups of access arrangements, each with their own application form and set of deadlines.

(g) Centres are responsible for bearing costs incurred in putting in place Cambridgeapproved access arrangements for candidates.

1.2.3

Assessment criteria

Before the exams 4

(e) Centres should consider the candidates usual methods of learning and producing work when making decisions on access arrangements.

Teacher assessment 3

(b) Access arrangements must not give the candidate an unfair advantage over others.

Entries 2

Cambridge will make provision for access arrangements so that candidates are able to receive recognition of their attainment. Adjustments cannot be granted if they interfere with the competence standards being tested.

1.2.2

Principles governing access arrangements

(a) Cambridge assesses all candidates according to the same marking criteria, so that grades and certificates have the same validity and are a true reflection of the candidates attainment.

Preparation 1

Access arrangements

where they will not be able to demonstrate attainment, and so 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 wants to enter the course without being assessed, entry is at their and the Centres discretion. The Centre should make sure 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 Cambridge qualifications, each syllabus lists its assessment criteria. 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 can 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 independently. As such abilities constitute 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. A candidate with severe dyslexia wants to take English Language and Foreign 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 written papers for Foreign Languages, unless the candidate were 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 wants 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 criteria is the skill of painting.

1.2.4

Access arrangements that require permission from Cambridge

(a) Centres must apply for access arrangements by the deadline dates published in the >Cambridge Administrative Guide. Cambridge will not guarantee that it will deal with late applications, especially where modified papers are required. (b) Centres must make applications using Preparation Form 1. Cambridge cannot consider applications without the correct information. (c) The Centre making the entry must submit the application. Cambridge will not accept applications from candidates or parents/carers. If Cambridge approves access arrangements, the Head of Centre can decide whether to administer the approved arrangements to the candidate as they may not require the same degree of assistance in every subject.

Administrative forms
Forms available from the Exams Officers section of the Cambridge website www.cie.org.uk/examsofficers Access Arrangements: Preparation Form 1

2.

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Access arrangements

(d) Centres must send with all applications supporting medical or psychological evidence in English. The Centre may provide a translation if necessary, together with the original document. (e) Friends and relatives 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. Cambridge reserves the right to refuse evidence that has been written by a friend or relative. (f) Centres cannot grant access arrangements unless Cambridge has given written consent, except for emergency access arrangements for temporary disabilities (for example, sudden injuries such as broken arms or wrists).

(i)

For deadlines for submitting applications for Braille or modified papers, see the >Cambridge Administrative Guide. Request modified papers using Preparation Form 3. If requests are late Cambridge may not be able to produce the papers required. See >Cambridge Administrative Guide for deadline dates. If unsure of the level of entry, Centres should request all levels relevant to a syllabus, for example, core and extended.

(j)

1.2.5

(g) If emergency access arrangements are required Centres should contact Cambridge in advance, where possible, to obtain advice and approval. It is advisable to telephone Cambridge rather than to fax or email, so that Cambridge can deal with applications immediately. If permission is given verbally, the Centre must complete Preparation Form 1 or Preparation Form 3 depending on the type of access arrangements needed. State the arrangements that were agreed on the form and send it to Cambridge together with the candidates medical certificate as soon as possible. (h) If it is not possible to contact Cambridge before the examination, the Head of Centre can decide on the day of the examination whether to grant arrangements that will alleviate the problem. In all cases the Centre must make an access arrangement application, stating the arrangements that were agreed, and send this to Cambridge together with the candidates medical certificate as soon as possible.

Guidance on particular disabilities

This section is relevant to both access arrangements that Centres need permission from Cambridge to use, and Centre-delegated access arrangements. 1.2.5.1 Candidates with physical disabilities

(a) An extra time allowance of up to 25 per cent will meet the needs of most candidates with physical disabilities. Cambridge 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 medical advice before requesting extra time over 25 per cent. (b) Candidates with severe disabilities may need a supervised rest break. The invigilator should stop the timing of the examination and re-start it when the candidate is able to continue. The candidate must be supervised at all times.

Important information
Centres must comply with regulations relating to any access arrangement given. Failure to keep to the regulations may result in a malpractice investigation.

Administrative forms
Forms available from the Exams Officers section of the Cambridge website www.cie.org.uk/examsofficers Modified Papers: Preparation Form 3

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Results and certificates 6 6

Exam day 5

Before the exams 4

Teacher assessment 3

For deadlines for submitting applications for all other access arrangements, see the >Cambridge Administrative Guide.

Entries 2

Preparation 1

Access arrangements

(c) If the candidate cannot write independently, the Centre should submit an application for the use of a scribe. The Centre is responsible for selecting an appropriate scribe and the Regulations governing the use of scribes must be observed. The Centre must attach Exam day Form 4 to the front of the candidates script. Cambridge 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 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 Cambridges 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 may want to provide a transcript. The Centre must observe the Regulations governing the production of a transcript. The Centre must attach a Transcription Cover Sheet to the transcript. (f) In speaking test examinations 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.

(b) Candidates may also require supervised rest breaks. The invigilator should stop the timing of the examination and re-start it when the candidate is able to continue. The candidate must be supervised 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 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 is responsible for selecting an appropriate scribe and must observe the Regulations governing the use of scribes. The Centre must attach the Scribe Cover Sheet to the script. Cambridge will not allow 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 for the use of 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 Cambridges 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 may want to provide a transcript. The Centre must observe the Regulations governing the production of a transcript. The Centre must attach a Transcription Cover Sheet to the transcript.

(g) For practical examinations an 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 for planning, analysis and evaluation. The Centre must observe the Regulations governing the use of practical assistants. 1.2.5.2 Candidates with visual impairment

(g) For practical examinations, an assistant may help to lift equipment, pour liquids etc. Centres

(a) An extra time allowance of up to 25 per cent 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 per cent extra time. Centres must state the amount of time recommended on the application form.

Administrative forms
Forms available from the Exams Officers section of the Cambridge website www.cie.org.uk/examsofficers Scribe/Writer Cover Sheet: Exam day Form 4

Cambridge Handbook 2012 (International) 22 1 Preparation

Access arrangements

must not give credit to candidates where the practical assistant performed this skill but the Centre may credit them for planning, analysis and evaluation. The Centre must observe the Regulations governing the use of practical assistants. (h) Cambridge can 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 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.

necessary to answer the questions and is not part of the skill being tested. For example, in a science practical examination, a candidate may be told that a solution has changed in colour, but not given any indication about what such a change in colour represents. 1.2.5.3 Candidates with hearing impairment

(a) Centres may give candidates with hearing impairment an extra time allowance of up to 25 per cent if literacy difficulties reduce the speed at which they read and comprehend written questions. (b) In 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 headphones a transcript for the live speakers to read to the candidate if the normal method of access is lip reading. Centres will always need at least two speakers, one male and one female.

Modified papers will not have different or easier questions. Cambridge still expects candidates to answer the same questions at the same level as other candidates. (i) If candidates present answers in Braille, the Centre must provide a transcript for the examiner. Centres must use the Transcription Cover Sheet and observe the Regulations governing the production of a transcript. If the visual impairment is colour-blindness, a Centre may allow a candidate to have colour naming, but only if this information is

Centres should choose the method that is used with the candidate in normal classroom preparation. (d) When applying for access arrangements for hearing impaired candidates in language examinations, Centres should give Cambridge as much information as possible about how candidates are being prepared. For listening tests, Cambridge will send Centres detailed information about the conduct of the test, for example, how to apply the extra time. Centres must request a transcript if the candidate is to lip-read. (e) Centres must not use sign language in language examinations. (f) Invigilators may use sign language to help the candidate read any questions written in English, but not to explain what the question

(j)

Important information
Centres must observe the deadlines for submission of applications. Cambridge will only be able to provide modified papers if Centres submit applications ahead of the deadline.

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Exam day 5

Before the exams 4

Teacher assessment 3

Entries 2

Preparation 1

Access arrangements

is asking the candidate to do. Candidates must not use sign language to convey answers to written questions in any syllabus, (that is, candidates must not use sign language to dictate answers to a scribe). (g) Cambridge can provide papers with a simplified carrier language for certain syllabuses. This means that complex sentences are broken down into simpler ones. The questions and answers remain the same as for any other candidate and technical vocabulary is unchanged. Centres may request such papers with a modified papers application. These papers are not available in language or literature examinations. Please note that deadlines for modified papers apply. 1.2.5.4 Candidates with learning disabilities

unavoidable, a senior member of Centre staff must countersign and authorise the evidence. Cambridge reserves the right to refuse evidence from a friend or relative. (d) An extra time allowance of up to 25 per cent will meet the needs of most candidates. (e) Candidates with severe learning disabilities may require reading assistance. The Centre 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 candidates reading skills (accuracy, speed, comprehension) have been measured in a test conducted by an educational psychologist, a clinical psychologist, occupational psychologist or 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 candidates reading abilities and that these are covered in the report. If the Centre does not include test results Cambridge will reject the application. (f) If the candidate normally uses a word processor, the Centre may make an application for 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 Cambridges outcome letter approving the use of a word processor.

(a) An educational psychologist, a clinical psychologist, an occupational psychologist or a suitably qualified specialist teacher must assess candidates with learning disabilities. A 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. Details of qualifications held by the report writer must also be included. (b) For applications requesting a word processor only: Cambridge will accept a report written by a qualified teacher who has no additional special needs qualification, but has at least five years, working experience in the area of special educational needs. If this option is taken, Cambridge will require a written statement from the Head of Centre confirming the teachers status. (c) Friends and relatives of the candidate should not write evidence submitted in support of an access arrangement application. Where this is

(g) If the candidate can write but the writing is not easy to read, the Centre may want to provide a transcript. The Centre must observe the Regulations governing the production of a transcript. The Centre must attach a Transcription Cover Sheet to the transcript. (h) In exceptional cases, the Centre may want to request permission to allow a scribe to write for the candidate. The Centre must send with the application form evidence of the candidates work both with and without the use of a scribe. The Centre must state clearly how long each piece of work took. The scribe

Important information
Centres cannot request exemptions for both the speaking test examination and the listening test components of a syllabus.

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Access arrangements

will not be allowed in examinations where the assessment criteria include writing. If writing is the focus of the assessment Cambridge 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 Cambridge has given prior permission that the candidate may have the use of a reader. The Centre must observe the Regulations governing the use of scribes. The Centre must attach a Scribe Cover Sheet to the script. (i) If the candidate has a neurological or cognitive disability, the Centre may want to allow a prompter. The Centre must observe the Regulations governing the use of prompters. Cambridge can provide papers with a simplified carrier language for certain syllabuses. This means that complex sentences are broken down into simpler ones. The questions and answers remain the same as for any other candidate and technical vocabulary is unchanged. Centres may request such papers with a modified papers application. These papers are not available in language or literature examinations. Please note that deadlines for modified papers apply.

reading aloud coloured paper/coloured overlays visual aids colour naming simple translation dictionaries.

(a) The Centre must refer to the rules governing all of the delegated access arrangements. (b) The Centre will need to decide whether it can make the arrangement. An application must be made to Cambridge for arrangements that are not delegated arrangements. (c) The Centre must take into account evidence of need in the normal working arrangements made for candidates and the candidates performance in internal assessments, such as mock examinations. (d) The Centre must take into account any history of difficulties and any residual effects there may be from those difficulties. (e) The Centre must keep on file all evidence relating to current candidates to show to inspectors. Failure to keep evidence constitutes malpractice by the Centre. (f) If the Centre is requested to submit evidence for a candidate to Cambridge, they must do so within the time period specified. Failure to do so may constitute malpractice.
Entries 2 Results and certificates 6 6 Exam day 5 Before the exams 4 Teacher assessment 3

(j)

1.2.6

Centre-delegated arrangements

Centres can use the arrangements listed below without getting prior permission from Cambridge. To use any other access arrangements Centres must request permission from Cambridge using Preparation Form 1. Centre-delegated arrangements: extra time up to 25 per cent (not permitted in syllabuses where time is the focus of the examination) word processors supervised rest breaks separate invigilation transcript prompter

(g) All permitted Centre-delegated access arrangements must be recorded using Preparation Form 4 and submitted by the dates shown in the >Cambridge Administrative Guide.

Administrative forms
Forms available from the Exams Officers section of the Cambridge website www.cie.org.uk/examsofficers Scribe/Writer Cover Sheet: Exam day Form 4 Access Arrangements: Preparation Form 1 Centre Delegated Access Arrangements: Preparation Form 4

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Preparation 1

Access arrangements

Candidates with learning difficulties will need one of the following to support the arrangement: a psychological assessment carried out by a qualified psychologist confirming a learning disability an assessment confirming a learning disability carried out by a specialist teacher who holds a relevant qualification.

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

Cambridge will also 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. Candidates with medical, physical, mental or other ill heath must have medical evidence in the form of a report, letter or sick note. The evidence should cover the candidates period of secondary education.

A request for more than 25 per cent extra time must be made using Preparation Form 1. (e) Please note that prolonging the examination can be damaging to a candidates condition, so a Centre should seek medical advice before applying for an extra time allowance. Cambridge cannot accept responsibility for any ill-effects caused by access arrangements requested by the Centre.

1.2.7

Regulations governing the use of extra time up to 25 per cent

1.2.8

Regulations governing the production of a transcript

(a) Extra time is not allowed in an examination component where performance of a task in a limited time is an assessment objective, or where a candidates ability to demonstrate attainment in a subject is not affected by their special assessment needs. (b) An extra time allowance of up to 25 per cent should meet the needs of most candidates. The amount of extra time granted must reflect the extent to which the completion of the examination is affected by the candidates condition. (c) Candidates eligible for extra time include those with permanent or temporary physical disabilities and those with a learning difficulty. (d) Cambridge may give prior approval for an extra time allowance of more than 25 per cent only in exceptional cases. By exceptional cases it is understood that a candidate:

(a) The Centre may submit a transcript where a candidates 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. (b) The regulations apply equally to the transcription of a candidates answers in Braille. (c) A transcript is a copy of the candidates script made after the examination has taken place and without the participation of the candidate. (d) A transcript may be a full copy written in 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 candidates writing (but not in red, green or purple ink or pencil). It may be helpful to enlarge the photocopy to A3 size.

Important information
Centres must keep to the regulations relating to any arrangement allowed. Failure to comply with the regulations may result in a malpractice investigation.
Cambridge Handbook 2012 (International) 26 1 Preparation

Administrative forms
Forms available from the Exams Officers section of the Cambridge website www.cie.org.uk/examsofficers Access Arrangements: Preparation Form 1

Access arrangements

(e) The Centre may produce a transcript that is handwritten, typed or word processed. (f) 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.

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. Cambridge 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. 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 candidates writing, but only on the photocopy.

1.2.9

Regulations governing the use of prompters

(i)

The transcript must be an exact word-forword copy of the candidates script. Where a candidate has misspelt a non-technical word the transcriber may correct it in the transcript, but must not add or leave out any words, or change their order. The transcriber must not correct technical terms. If the Centre considers that some interpretation is necessary, it should discuss this with Cambridge well before the examination. Centres should limit such interpretation to the correct spelling of individual words or, in exceptional circumstances, some re-phrasing, rather than re-interpreting what the candidate has written. The Centre should be prepared to supply samples of the candidates usual written work.

(a) Centres may allow the 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.

(j)

(k) In language examinations, the transcript must be a word-for-word copy of the original script. The transcript must include any errors, including those of spelling, punctuation and grammar. (l) Production of the transcript must not delay the despatch of scripts to the examiner. Centres must not send any extra information to the examiner.

(m) For candidates whose difficulties are so significant that the Centre cannot produce a transcript, please see the regulations governing the use of scribes.

(c) A prompter is not a reader, a scribe or a practical assistant, but the same person may act as such as long as Cambridge has given permission for each of these arrangements.

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(b) 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 and then move on to the next.

Exam day 5

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 Cambridge has permitted the candidate to have both.

Before the exams 4

Teacher assessment 3

(h) The Centre must fill in a Transcript Cover Sheet and attach it to the candidates script. The teacher preparing the transcript must sign the cover sheet and a person acting on behalf of the Head of Centre must counter-sign. The Centre must also attach a cover sheet to any coursework/portfolio work transcribed.

2.

Entries 2

(g) A member of the Centres staff who is familiar with the candidates handwriting or is fully competent in Braille code for the subject concerned must produce the transcript.

Preparation 1

Access arrangements

(d) The prompter is responsible to the Head of Centre/exams officer and must be a person who is both acceptable to the Head and a person known to the candidate. (e) The prompter should not normally be the candidates own subject teacher. On no account may a relative, friend or peer of the candidate be a candidates prompter. A prompter should be sufficiently familiar with the candidate to recognise when their attention is no longer on the task in hand. (f) The provision of a prompter should reflect the candidates normal way of working.

2.

A candidate with Aspergers 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.

1.2.10 Regulations governing the use of supervised rest breaks


(a) The Centre may allow supervised rest breaks in timed components in most subjects. (b) Candidates eligible for supervised rest breaks include those with permanent or temporary physical disabilities and, in certain cases, those with a learning difficulty. (c) The Centre may give supervised rest breaks either in or outside the examination room. The duration of the break must not be included in the time allowed for the examination component. The clock is stopped and then restarted. In certain cases the candidate may require extra time as well as supervised rest breaks.

(g) A prompter must not speak to the candidate, give factual help or offer suggestions. It may be possible to say the candidates name or use certain instructions on flash cards. The Centre should submit flash cards to Cambridge before the examination to make sure that they are acceptable. (h) 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 questions. (i) A prompter must only tap on the desk or on the candidates arm, depending on what is normal practice, in order to remind the candidate that they must pay attention to the question. 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.

1.2.11 Coloured overlays/paper


(a) Some visual perception difficulties are normally corrected by the use of tinted spectacles or coloured overlays. The Centre may allow these if required. (b) Cambridge will not provide enlarged question papers for candidates with such difficulties. However, Centres may, with the permission of Cambridge, open question papers up to 30 minutes before 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.

(j)

(k) 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.

1.2.12 Separate invigilation


(a) Centres may allow a candidate to have separate invigilation. (b) The Centre is responsible for ensuring that the candidate is accommodated in a suitable venue and that an invigilator is provided. (c) The Centre must keep to the instructions for the conduct of examinations at all times, particularly in relation to accommodation and invigilation arrangements.

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1.2.13 Visual aids


Centres may allow a candidate with visual perception difficulties to use visual aids, for example, CCTV or a magnifying glass.

1.2.14 Read aloud


If a candidate is not permitted a reader the Centre may want to accommodate the candidate separately so that he/she may read aloud, particularly where this is their normal way of working.

(c) The Centre must give credit according to the assessment criteria in the syllabus. Where the use of a computer means that the candidate cannot demonstrate certain skills, the Centre must not give credit for those skills. Cambridge may require a Centre to submit coursework produced on a computer for inspection by a moderator. (d) It is the attainment of the candidate that must be assessed, so the use of the computer must not result in a misleading assessment or give an unfair advantage. (e) Candidates who can produce work for assessment by handwriting or drawing are expected to do so. Candidates must only use a word processor if a disability or 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 candidates normal practice. (f) Before choosing a syllabus for a candidate who uses a computer, the Centre should consider whether the candidate can fully meet its assessment objectives. Some syllabuses test particular skills (for example, drawing by hand), which the candidate cannot demonstrate if a computer is used. If there is any doubt the Centre should consult Cambridge. It is in the candidates best interest to establish at an early stage if they can use a word processor.

1.2.15 Colour naming


Cambridge will allow colour blind candidates to ask the invigilator to name colours. The invigilator cannot give any other information. If the candidate normally uses a colour chart, Cambridge will allow them to do so in both written and practical examinations.

1.2.16 Simple translation dictionaries


(a) The Centre must check the syllabuses before the examination to determine if a dictionary can be allowed. (b) The use of a simple translation dictionary should reflect the candidates normal way of working within the Centre. (c) Electronic dictionaries, reading pens, translators, wordlists or glossaries must not be used. (d) Translation of either examination material or the candidates answers into or from the candidates first language is not allowed.

1.2.17 Regulations governing the use of word processors, computers and electronic typewriters
(a) Candidates can normally complete coursework on word processors unless prohibited by the syllabus. (b) Marks will be awarded based on the achievement demonstrated by the candidate. In order to ensure the fair application of mark schemes, Cambridge may, in some cases, ask Centres to supply extra information about the means the candidate used to answer particular examination questions.

(g) A word processor must be used as a typewriter, not as a database, although standard formatting software is acceptable. Word processors must not have spell checking, grammatical checking or thesaurus features, or give the candidate access to other applications (such as calculators, spreadsheets). They must not include graphics packages or computer-aided design software unless Cambridge has given permission for this. (h) Cambridge will determine what effect, if any, the use of specific software may have on its ability to assess the candidate fairly in each subject. Cambridge reserves the right to seek independent advice concerning the operation of computers and software by candidates in order to decide what access arrangements the Centre should make.

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(i)

A computer or word processor must not be connected to the internet or any other means of communication. 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 a script can be printed. Printing may be done after the examination is over, not during the extra time. The candidate should be present for the printing to check 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.

coursework produced on a computer for moderation. Example of how access arrangements for a word processor would apply 1. A candidate taking a Design and Technology paper wants to use a word processor. Most of the paper involves drawing original designs by hand. Cambridge does not allow computeraided design packages in this particular paper. The request to use a word processor is refused. 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. Cambridge allows her to use a word processor.

(j)

2.

(k) The use of a word processor must reflect the candidates normal method of producing written work. (l) 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 need a separate invigilator.

1.2.18 Regulations governing the use of readers


(a) If a candidate wants to use a reader, the Centre must submit an application before the first examination using an access arrangements form together with evidence of need. (b) The Centre must get permission for the use of a reader from Cambridge before the examination or at the commencement of coursework. (c) Cambridge will allow a reader in certain subjects where a candidate has a more significant impairment. For visually impaired candidates, this means: those who cannot read a Braille/enlarged paper independently those whose impairment is a result of a temporary injury.

(m) Centres must attach word processed scripts to any answer booklet containing some of the answers. (n) Candidates must use word processors to produce scripts under secure conditions, otherwise scripts may be refused. (o) Word processors must not include voiceactivated software unless the candidate has permission to use a scribe and/or relevant software. (p) A third party must not use a word processor on the candidates behalf unless the candidate has permission to use a scribe. (q) The Centre must attach a Word Processor Cover Sheet to each script where the word processor was used. (r) For Cambridge Pre-U coursework the Centre should give credit according to the assessment criteria for the syllabus. Where the use of the computer means that certain skills cannot be demonstrated, the Centre must not give credit for those skills. Cambridge may require a Centre to submit

(d) Cambridge will allow a reader for candidates with other types of disability, impairment, or more significant impairment, where reading skills (accuracy, speed, comprehension) have been measured in a test 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

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Access arrangements

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) Cambridge will not allow a reader if the request is based on English not being the candidates first language. (f) The provision of a reader should reflect the candidates normal way of working, except in cases of temporary injury.

(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 questions 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, for example, in language examinations (including English). (n) The reader must not advise the candidate which questions to answer, when to move on to the next question, or in which order to answer 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 paper. An exception would be when the question is asking for a number to be written in words (for example, 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 question paper. Apart from this they must not give spellings.

(g) A reader is a responsible adult who reads the questions to the candidate. This may involve reading the whole paper 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 Cambridge has given permission for both arrangements. (i) Cambridge will not allow a reader for sections of papers that test reading. Cambridge may instead grant an extra time allowance to a candidate who would normally be eligible for a reader but is not permitted this arrangement in certain examinations. The reader is responsible to the Head of Centre/exams 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 candidates own subject teacher and must not be a relative, friend or peer.

(j)

(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.

(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 to sighted candidates. (t) The reader must abide by the regulations. Failure to do so could lead to the disqualification of the candidate.

Important information
We recommend Centres make any candidates using a reader in an exam aware of what the reader can and cannot do before the candidate takes their first exam. Centres can download instructions for readers from www.cie.org.uk/examsofficers

(u) Centres whose candidates are not permitted a reader may want to accommodate candidates separately so that they may read aloud, particularly where this is their normal way of working.

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(v) Cambridge will permit a computer reader if a candidate is eligible for a reader. Centres must also request early opening so that they can scan papers into the software. The software must not decode or interpret the paper. Cambridge will not permit a computer reader in sections of papers that test 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 about 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 speak to the invigilator.

of the examination in question. For all cases the Centre must fill in Preparation - Form 1, stating the arrangements that were allowed and send this to Cambridge as soon as possible together with the candidates medical certificate.

1.2.19 Regulations governing the use of scribes


(a) The Centre must submit an application before the candidates first examination using an access arrangements form together with evidence of need. (b) The Centre must get permission for the use of a scribe from Cambridge before 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 speaking test examinations, writes down or word processes a candidates dictated answers. If a candidate dictates answers on to a tape the Centre must produce a transcript. Candidates must respond in English. 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.

(x) Where a temporary injury causes the need for a reader the Centre must, if possible, contact Cambridge before the examination. If the Centre cannot contact Cambridge, the Head of Centre may use their discretion on the day of the examination to allow arrangements that will alleviate the problem. However, Centres must make sure that the access arrangements do not interfere with the assessment criteria

Important information
We recommend Centres make any candidates using a scribe in an exam aware of what the scribe can and cannot do before the candidate takes their first exam. Centres can download instructions for scribes from www.cie.org.uk/examsofficers

Administrative forms
Forms available from the Exams Officers section of the Cambridge website www.cie.org.uk/examsofficers Access Arrangements: Preparation Form 1

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(e) A scribe is not a reader, but the same person may act as both scribe and reader as long as Cambridge has given permission for both arrangements. (f) Cambridge will allow a scribe in certain subjects when a candidates impairment has a significant effect. For visually impaired candidates, this means those who cannot record their answer independently through handwriting, touch typing, Braille input or other means. Centres should only request scribes for candidates who cannot produce written communication by any other means, for example, 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. (j)

the scribe may at the request of the candidate read back 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 candidates instructions, unless the candidate is taking a design paper, in which case Cambridge 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 answer, when to move on to the next question, or about the order in which to answer questions.

(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 Cambridge will not permit a scribe)

Administrative forms
Forms available from the Exams Officers section of the Cambridge website www.cie.org.uk/examsofficers Scribe/Writer Cover Sheet: Exam day Form 4

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(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.

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(g) The scribe is responsible to the Head of Centre/exams 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 candidates own subject teacher and must not be a relative, friend or peer.

The provision of a scribe should reflect the candidates normal way of working, except in cases where temporary injury, for example, a broken arm, means a scribe is needed.

(k) The Centre must attach Exam day Form 4 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 exams officer. The Centre must also attach a copy of Cambridges letter of agreement to the use of a scribe.

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(l)

Cambridge 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 candidates dictation may be taped. This will help the candidate to get the flow of the particular language. When the candidate has finished dictating their 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 allow extra time of up to 25 per cent.

(p) The following computer software can be used: software which produces a hard copy of the candidates dictated answers software which produces speech that can be used to dictate to a scribe software which produces a hard copy with predictive text when the candidate uses a word processor, but in line with scribe regulations.

(m) In language writing tests candidates are marked for the quality of their language, which covers not only the range and complexity, but also the accuracy of the language. It is therefore essential for 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 importance in marking. (n) In other subjects testing written communication skills, including English, Cambridge will allow a scribe. In such cases Cambridge 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. Cambridge 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 gives rise to the need for a scribe the Centre must contact Cambridge before the examination if possible. If the Centre cannot contact Cambridge the Head of Centre may use their discretion on the day of the examination to allow arrangements that will alleviate the problem. However, Centres must make sure that the access arrangements are compatible with the assessment criteria of the examination. For all cases the Centre must fill in an access arrangements form, stating the arrangements that were allowed, and send this to Cambridge as soon as possible, together with the candidates medical certificate.
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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. 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.

2.

1.2.20 Regulations governing the use of practical assistants


(a) The Centre must submit an application before the candidates first examination using an access arrangements form together with evidence of need. (b) The Centre must obtain permission from Cambridge for the use of a practical assistant before the examination or at the commencement of coursework. (c) A practical assistant is a support in practical assessments who will: make sure candidates are safe transmit visual observations at the candidates instructions

Access arrangements

carry out some or all of the manual tasks contributing to the practical examination, at the candidates instruction.

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 answers to questions. (d) Before Cambridge can consider allowing a practical assistant the Centre must seek advice at the beginning of the course about whether or not it will affect the assessment criteria. (e) The use of a practical assistant must not give the candidate an unfair advantage or disadvantage. The practical assistant is used to enable the candidate to 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.

(k) The practical assistant is responsible to the Head of Centre/exams officer and must be a person acceptable to the Head and able to carry out the tasks involved. The practical assistant should not normally be the candidates own subject teacher. On no account may this be a relative, friend or peer. (l) The provision of a practical assistant should reflect the candidates normal way of working, except in cases of temporary injury to the writing hand or arm.

(m) 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. (n) 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. (o) A practical assistant must not give factual help to the candidate or indicate when a task is complete. (p) A practical assistant must not advise the candidate about which practical questions to answer, when to move on to the next question, or the order in which they should answer questions. (q) A practical assistant must carry out accurately what the candidate has asked them to do, unless to do so would endanger the candidate or others. (r)

(g) A practical assistant must make sure the candidate and those around them are safe. (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 Cambridge has given permission for all three arrangements. (i) Cambridge will allow a practical assistant in certain subjects when a candidates impairment has a significant adverse effect, and prevents them from performing practical tasks independently. This might be because their level of manual dexterity or physical coordination is below that of most people. Cambridge will not allow a practical assistant in subjects testing design or artistic skills, (for example, Music, Art, Design and Technology, IT keyboarding or word processing), where the practical skill is the focus of the assessment. Where minimal assistance only is required please contact Cambridge.

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.

(j)

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The practical assistant must abide by the regulations. Failure to do so can lead to the disqualification of the candidate.

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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.

1.2.22 Regulations governing the use of other arrangements


Coursework extensions (a) The Centre must submit an application before the candidates first examination using an access arrangements form together with evidence of need. (b) A Centre may request permission from Cambridge 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 a candidate who has been unable to finish coursework at the normal time. Alternative accommodation (a) The Centre must submit an application before the candidates first examination using an access arrangements form together with evidence of need. (b) A Centre may apply to Cambridge for permission to allow a candidate to take a paper at another venue. (c) Centres should request alternative accommodation only for 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/exams officer must be satisfied that a named responsible adult at the other venue will keep the paper in secure conditions. This adult must make sure that the examination is conducted in line 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 separately packaged papers are to be sent. (f) Centres must not open question paper packets before the scheduled date of the examination.

1.2.21 Regulations governing the use of live speakers for pre-recorded examination components
(a) The Centre must submit an application before the candidates first examination using an access arrangements form together with evidence of need. (b) The Centre must obtain permission from Cambridge before 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 personal 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 Centre supervision while preparation takes place. The Centre must not open materials (the transcript and CD) before the scheduled time on the final timetable.

(g) Centres can request permission if they need to open question paper packets up to 30 minutes before the scheduled start of the examination, especially when emergency medical situations arise at the last minute, for example a

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candidate is suddenly admitted to hospital, and papers have to be taken to another venue. The Centre must have permission from Cambridge before they open the question paper packets. (h) 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. (i) Centres should despatch scripts with the Centres 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. Centres should not send any medical information in the script packets.

design and technology (design and making).

1.2.24 Appeals against the outcome of applications for access arrangements


The Head of Centre must send any appeal in writing within 28 days from the date of notification of the decision. No requests for an appeal will be accepted directly from a candidate. When making an appeal, Centres must provide Cambridge with any extra information or evidence they would like the Appeals Committee to consider. Once a Centre has submitted an appeal, all communication relating to the case must be in writing. Cambridge will not enter into any communication about an appeal with candidates or their parents. Cambridge will inform the Centre/Cambridge Associate of the outcome within 28 days of the appeal. 1.2.24.1 Stage 1 (a) At stage 1 the evidence is reviewed by senior staff within the Compliance Unit. All previous evidence is considered alongside any new evidence or mitigating circumstances submitted by the Centre. (b) The Centre/Cambridge Associate will be notified of any decision in writing. Stage 2 This takes place if the Centre is not satisfied by the outcome of the stage 1 appeal. A request to go to stage 2 will only be accepted if requested by the Centre. (a) At stage 2 the Cambridge Appeals Committee will consider the appeal against the decisions made. (b) The Cambridge Appeals Committee consists of a Cambridge director or assistant director who will act as the chair, the regulations officer who will minute the meeting and at least two independent panel members. Other subject, assessment or specialist staff may be invited Access arrangements appeal process

Colour naming for colour blind candidates Cambridge 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, Cambridge will let them do so in both written and practical examinations.

Cambridge needs to balance carefully the requirement to make sure qualifications are accessible to candidates, with the need to protect the integrity of the qualification. Exemptions are appropriate in a few extreme cases, but Cambridge 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 exempt from a particular component. (b) Cambridge will not permit exemptions when they would compromises the integrity of the qualification. (c) Cambridge will not allow exemptions from components which are the key objectives of the syllabus. (d) Examples of where exemptions are not permitted (this list is not exhaustive): science practical art and design

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to give extra information as required. The Appeals Committee will review the evidence and decide what action, if any, should be taken. The Committee will consider each case on an individual basis in the light of all the information. (c) The outcome of a stage 2 appeal is final and Cambridge will not enter into further correspondence.

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2 Entries
2.1
2.1.1

Candidates
Eligibility

(a) Cambridge places no age restrictions on entry 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 series. (d) All candidates must meet the full requirements of the assessments for which they are entered.
Entries 2 Results and certificates 6 6 Exam day 5 Before the exams 4 Teacher assessment 3

In this section
39 41 41 41 42 2.1 Candidates 2.2 Estimating entries 2.3 Making final entries 2.4 Entry fees, late entries and entry amendments 2.5 Retaking examinations and coursework components

(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 Cambridge. However, some candidates who do not attend Cambridge Centres may want to enter for assessments. Such individuals are referred to as private candidates. Centres must check syllabuses to make sure that they are suitable for private candidates before they make any entries. Syllabuses can be downloaded from the Cambridge website. (a) Private candidates must be able to meet the full requirements of any assessment for which they are entered. Certain options, including those with coursework, are not available to private candidates. (b) Entry for assessments can only be made through a Centre. It is up to private candidates to make arrangements with a Centre. (c) The Centre must pay fees to Cambridge for any private candidates accepted. The Centre may require private candidates to reimburse the entry fee and also to pay a fee to cover the cost of supervision and the marking of any coursework or other internally-assessed work by staff of the Centre. (d) Private candidates are identified separately in summaries of the Centres results. The Centre name does not appear on certificates issued to private candidates.

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Candidates

2.1.3

Transferred candidates

2.1.5

Declaration of interest

Candidates entered for Cambridge examinations that need to move Centres, can only continue with the examinations if they move to a centre registered with Cambridge. (a) A candidate who transfers to another Cambridge Centre after final entries are made becomes the responsibility of the receiving Centre. This Centre should allocate its own candidate number to the candidate. (b) The original Centre must fill in Entries Form 3. The receiving Centre must complete Entries Form 4. Once Cambridge receives both forms, it will move the entry from the original Centre to the receiving Centre. Centres should not make changes to the entry until Cambridge has confirmed that the transfer is complete. (c) Cambridge will refund to the original Centre any exam fees charged and issue a new invoice to the receiving Centre. Cambridge will not charge late entry fees to Centres receiving a transferred candidate. (d) Where necessary, the original and the receiving Centres must make arrangements for the completion of internal assessment. The receiving Centre must submit all marks and coursework samples for internally assessed work. (e) Cambridge is unable to accept a request for transfer received less than 10 days before the first examination of the candidate. (f) Centres should submit requests for full candidate transfers only. Cambridge cannot accept requests for transfer for specific syllabuses or components.

(a) If a member of staff, including the Head of Centre, has an interest in a person taking a Cambridge assessment or if they are taking a Cambridge assessment themselves they must fill in Entries Form 1. They must hand the form to the Head of Centre (or the exams officer if the member of staff concerned is the Head of Centre) who will send a copy to Cambridge for the attention of the Compliance Unit. Centres must store the original form for a period of one year and it must be made available if Cambridge asks to see it. (b) Interest in a person applies to: a close relative children grandchildren cousins nieces nephews any person whose relationship to you could compromise the integrity of the Centre or of Cambridges 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.

(c) Centres should fill in Entries Form 1 as soon as they know that the person concerned will be, or has been, entered for a Cambridge examination. The form is available on CIE Direct.

2.1.4

Communicating about candidates

Administrative forms
Forms available from the Exams Officers section of the Cambridge website www.cie.org.uk/examsofficers Declaration of Interest: Entries Form 1 Candidate Transfer Request: Entries Form 3 Candidate Transfer Confirmation: Entries Form 4

Only the Head of Centre, exams officer/Centre co-ordinator or their nominated deputy responsible for the candidates entry should communicate with Cambridge on any aspect of a candidates assessment. Only in exceptional circumstances will Cambridge, at its discretion, correspond directly with candidates or their parents.

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Estimating entries

2.2

Estimating entries

Centres should provide estimated entry information when requested by Cambridge. Centres that do not submit estimated entries may not have the necessary materials to carry out assessments at the specified time.

2.4 Entry fees, late entries and entry amendments


2.4.1 Cambridge IGCSE, Cambridge O Level and Cambridge International AS and A Level

2.3

Making final entries

(a) Final entries can be submitted to Cambridge online using the CIE Direct website, or using the Direct Desktop application. See the Cambridge Guide to Making Entries for instructions. (b) The Head of Centre is responsible for making sure entry data sent to Cambridge is accurate, complete and submitted on time. (c) After the final entries deadline Centres can send Cambridge late entries or changes to entries until the late entry closing date (see the >Cambridge Administrative Guide). Cambridge charges a late entry fee for any entries which we receive after the entry deadline, or for any entries which are amended or corrected after this date. Cambridge may not be able to accept entries or amendments after the late entry closing date. (d) Entry closing dates are shown in the >Cambridge Administrative Guide.

(a) Cambridge will charge an entry fee per syllabus per candidate. Centres will also be charged a single fee for each candidate for any Cambridge O Level or Cambridge International AS and A Level entries they make. (b) Cambridge will charge late entry fees for any syllabus entries or changes to entry options received after the final entry closing date. (c) If a candidate changes their syllabus entry with another subject after the closing date for final entries, Cambridge will charge the Centre a new syllabus entry fee and a late entry fee. Cambridge cannot refund the original syllabus entry or transfer the entry fees for the original syllabus to the new syllabus entry. (d) Cambridge will accept November examination series retake entries, which are dependent on results from the preceding June series, until the date shown in the >Cambridge Administrative Guide without charging a late entry fee. After this date, we will apply late entry fees. (e) Although there is not a syllabus entry fee for certain Cambridge IGCSE staged assessment entry options, Centres are liable for late entry fees for any entries received after the closing date. (f) Fee rates and methods of payment are detailed in the Cambridge fees list. This document is issued annually and can be downloaded via CIE Direct. You can request a hard copy of the fees document by emailing international@cie.org.uk Cambridge invoices Centres for any late fees or other priced services they have used.

2.3.1

Candidate numbering

2.3.2

Confirming entries

If Centres make their entries using CIE Direct online entries they can download a statement of entry at any point confirming the entry status for each of the their candidates. Cambridge will issue statements of entry to Centres, showing details of each candidates entry. Centres should give candidates, including private candidates, the opportunity to check these details. Statements of entry will form the Centres record of entries, both before and during the assessment.

Cambridge Handbook 2012 (International) 2 Entries 41

Results and certificates 6 6

Exam day 5

The Centre must assign one unique four-digit number to every candidate in the examination series.

Before the exams 4

Teacher assessment 3

Entries 2

Preparation 1

Retaking examinations and coursework components

2.4.2

Refunding fees

Cambridge will usually only refund entry fees if told of the withdrawal of a candidate before the published entry closing date. However, Cambridge will consider refund requests for candidates withdrawn after the entry deadline on medical grounds. Centres should email a request to international@cie.org.uk, including a statement from a medical practitioner confirming that the candidate was unable to sit the examination(s). Centres should not remove the entry until Cambridge confirms the refund has been approved. Refunds are issued as a credit on the Centres next invoice.

taken the Cambridge International AS Level papers in a previous series they do not have to take them again, but can carry forward their result. Subject to the requirements of the particular Cambridge International A Level syllabus, a candidate can use an award in a Cambridge International AS Level syllabus towards an award in a Cambridge International A Level syllabus, in the same subject, within a 13 month period. For example, a candidate may use an award in a Cambridge International AS Level syllabus in November 2011 towards the award of a Cambridge International A Level in the same subject in June 2012 and/or November 2012. Centres must follow the processes for entering candidates for staged assessments as set out in the >Cambridge Administrative Guide.

2.5

Retaking examinations and coursework components

Centres must follow the processes set out in the >Cambridge Administrative Guide for submitting retake entries and for carrying forward marks.

2.5.1

Staged assessment

The curriculum for most Cambridge International Advanced (A) Level syllabuses includes the curriculum to be covered for the Cambridge International Advanced Subsidiary (AS) Level in the same subject. The Cambridge International AS Level syllabus covers about half of the material of the Cambridge International A Level syllabus. The part of the Cambridge International A Level syllabus that is not included in the Cambridge International AS Level syllabus is sometimes referred to as the A2 syllabus because it is usually covered in the second year of a two-year Cambridge International A Level course. Candidates may either take a Cambridge International AS Level examination as an end in itself or as an intermediate examination halfway to a Cambridge International A Level. Candidates do not have to take the Cambridge International AS Level examination before the Cambridge International A Level. A2 is not a qualification. Candidates who have studied the A2 part of a Cambridge International A Level syllabus must enter for the full Cambridge International A Level. However, if they have already

Cambridge Handbook 2012 (International) 42 2 Entries

3 Teacher assessment
3.1 Centre-based assessment
Coursework is any component specified by a Cambridge syllabus that is assessed in the Centre, either by the Centres teachers or by other local teachers, and moderated by Cambridge. Examples are: projects, folios of essays, field work, art and craft items, design studies, 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 been set by the teacher, specified in the syllabus or chosen by the candidates.
Preparation 1 Results and certificates 6 6 Exam day 5 Before the exams 4 Teacher assessment 3 Entries 2

3.1.1

Accreditation of coursework assessors

In this section
43 46 3.1 Centre-based assessment 3.2 Non-coursework speaking tests

(a) In order for a Centre to carry out internal assessment of coursework in a subject, at least one teacher of the subject must have the appropriate certificate or letter of accreditation from Cambridge. Please refer to the >Cambridge Administrative Guide for details. (b) Centres that make entries through a Cambridge Associate will have to meet their requirements. (c) An accredited teacher can assess the coursework component in the subject in which they have been accredited. A teacher accredited for Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Combined Science, Coordinated Sciences or Physical Science can assess other Sciences that they are qualified to teach. (d) Accredited teachers can also supervise other teachers for coursework assessment in the subject in which they are accredited or in related subjects. (e) When a Centre enters candidates for examinations that include Centre-based assessment, they must send details of accredited teachers to Cambridge by the dates given in the >Cambridge Administrative Guide.

3.1.2

Submitting coursework for more than one syllabus

There is no restriction on the submission of the same coursework for more than one syllabus, unless indicated in the syllabus. However, coursework submitted for more than one syllabus must be relevant, and will be assessed separately for each syllabus according to its criteria. More than one moderator may require such coursework and it is the Centres 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.)

Cambridge Handbook 2012 (International) 3 Teacher assessment 43

Centre-based assessment

3.1.3

Outline proposal form

(b) In addition, teachers must: (i) continuously supervise 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) make sure that candidates state their sources (iv) make sure that work is completed in line with syllabus requirements and can be assessed against the criteria. (c) Cambridge requires teachers to record (on the candidates individual candidate record card) full details of the nature of any assistance given to individual candidates beyond that specified above. Cambridge requires teachers to take this assistance into account in awarding marks for the work. (d) Private candidates 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 Cambridge: is able to authenticate the work as the candidates own undertakes to oversee the marking of the coursework.

For outline proposal forms, refer to the details and deadlines given in the relevant syllabus and the notes on the back of the form. If the candidate makes any changes to titles, then the form should be re-submitted to Cambridge for confirmation that the new titles are acceptable. Any work submitted must be accompanied by the outline proposal form. Cambridge reserves the right to refuse any proposal or completed work that in its sole opinion is sexually explicit, violent, breaches standards of good taste or decency, brings Cambridge into disrepute, is potentially illegal or otherwise actionable either in the UK or in the learners own jurisdiction, or, is otherwise controversial.

3.1.4

Authenticating coursework

In submitting coursework marks to Cambridge, the Centre and Cambridge Associate are 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. Centres should fill in and submit to Cambridge declaration forms signed by both candidate and teacher.

3.1.5

Supervising coursework

(a) Cambridge does not expect candidates to undertake coursework without guidance and continuing teacher supervision. Teachers may: (i) assist with the choice of subjects for investigations, models and topics (ii) indicate sources of information, for example, organisations or people who might be able to help, materials, places to visit and references (iii) advise on the practicability of ideas suggested 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.

3.1.6

Presentation of coursework

(a) Each candidate must present written coursework on A4 paper, unless stated otherwise in the syllabus. (b) Candidates may produce their coursework on a word processor unless a particular syllabus specifically prohibits doing so.

3.1.7

Marking coursework

(a) The accredited teacher must award marks for coursework in line with the criteria in the syllabus and must provide evidence of how they have awarded marks, using the Cambridge documentation provided for that syllabus. For most Cambridge IGCSE syllabuses this means recording the marks awarded on each candidates Individual Candidate Record Card and then transferring a

Cambridge Handbook 2012 (International) 44 3 Teacher assessment

Centre-based assessment

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 to all pieces of work, without regard to the stage of the candidates course at which they were produced.

produce a rank order of candidates for the Centre as a whole. (b) One teacher (who must be a teacher accredited by Cambridge) per Centre per syllabus must take responsibility for the standardisation of the marking of members of staff. This teacher must make sure 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 to ensure consistency for the whole Centre. Centres must round up any part marks to reach the final total marks.

3.1.8

Incomplete or extra coursework

If a candidate provides more than the prescribed number of pieces of coursework, the worst piece(s) should be disregarded in awarding the candidates mark, subject always to the satisfaction of the requirements of the syllabus about the nature of the work.

3.1.12 Submitting marks


Centres must follow the process for submitting internally-assessed marks detailed in the >Cambridge Administrative Guide.

3.1.13 Selecting samples


Centres must follow the processes for selecting and submitting coursework samples for moderation as detailed in the >Cambridge Administrative Guide. If a Centre does not provide a coursework sample Cambridge will not issue a result for the syllabus. 3.1.13.1 Coursework moderation of video evidence
Before the exams 4 Results and certificates 6 6 Exam day 5

3.1.9

Failure to complete coursework

The teacher must indicate as absent (A) any candidate entered for a coursework component in a syllabus who fails to submit any coursework. Such a candidate is not eligible for the award of a grade in that syllabus and will receive a No Result.

3.1.10 Requests for special consideration


Where a candidate has a shortfall in coursework due to an unforeseen illness or other misfortune during the period when 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, for example, if the candidate has not satisfied the coursework assessment objectives.

Centres must provide video evidence of candidates performances for a range of subjects in one of these formats: full-sized DVD (standard PAL or NTSC DVD video) that can be played on a standard DVD player VHS format (PAL system) that can be played on a standard VHS player

3.1.11 Standardising marking within Centres


(a) Cambridge requires Centres to standardise assessments across teachers and teaching groups to make sure, for a particular syllabus, that all candidates in the Centre have been judged against the same standards, and to

If Centres do not provide video evidence in the correct format Cambridge will not issue a result for the syllabus. Centres must make sure that video evidence is stored securely until submitted to Cambridge.

Cambridge Handbook 2012 (International) 3 Teacher assessment 45

Teacher assessment 3

If the coursework component of a syllabus specifically requires candidates to produce several distinct pieces of work (for example, three essays), the Centre should credit a candidate who fails to finish all parts of the coursework with only the marks that they have earned for the work submitted, and should make no compensation unless an application for shortfall in coursework has been made to and been accepted by Cambridge.

Entries 2

Preparation 1

Non-coursework speaking tests

3.1.14 Dealing with unsatisfactory practice


(a) Cambridge will provide further guidance where individual teachers or Centres fail to meet Cambridges requirements for coursework. (b) Where, in Cambridges sole judgement, a significant problem has occurred, Cambridge may revoke the accreditation of a teacher to mark coursework.

local teachers, then externally moderated by Cambridge. The format for non-coursework speaking tests is set by Cambridge and is the same for all candidates. The tests are carried out as a terminal examination within a period set by Cambridge (that is, not over the course of study, as with coursework speaking tests). The following tests are non-coursework speaking tests: Cambridge IGCSE speaking tests for foreign language examinations syllabuses 0515, 0519, 0520, 0525, 0530, 0540, 0543, 0544, 0545, 0546 and 0547 Cambridge IGCSE second language speaking tests Cambridge IGCSE first language speaking tests Paper 5 Cambridge International AS and A Level languages other than English speaking tests.

3.1.15 Returning samples


Cambridge will not be responsible for loss of or damage to coursework submitted for moderation. Coursework that is externally assessed will be returned if requested but a fee will be charged per component. Centres should refer to the specification for details.

3.1.16 Carrying forward Cambridge IGCSE and Cambridge O Level internally-assessed marks
Centres must follow the process for carrying forward internally assessed marks as detailed in the >Cambridge Administrative Guide.

3.2.2

Appointment of examiners for non-coursework speaking tests

3.1.17 Re-use of coursework


It is permissible for a candidate to re-submit, in whole or in part, the coursework they submitted in the previous examination series. Any work which is re-submitted must meet the requirements of the syllabus for the year in which it is offered and may be subject to re-assessment.

(a) Centres must select their own teacher/ examiner, subject to accreditation requirements. This would normally be a teacher from within the languages department, but could be a suitably qualified person independent of the department/ Centre. A group of neighbouring Centres may choose the same examiner. Cambridge is not responsible for any fees agreed. Centres can contact Cambridge if they are in any doubt about the suitability of a teacher/ examiner. (b) For Centres operating through a Cambridge Associate, the Cambridge Associate will appoint the examiner and make arrangements for testing candidates. (c) If a Nomination of an Oral Examiner form is required, (in Cambridge International AS and A Level languages other than English), Centres should refer to the details and deadlines given in the relevant syllabus.

3.1.18 Dishonesty and malpractice in coursework


In cases where dishonesty or malpractice is suspected in relation to coursework, Centres must take action in accordance with the regulations given in this handbook.

3.2
3.2.1

Non-coursework speaking tests


Definition of non-coursework speaking tests

These speaking tests are internally administered and assessed by the Centres teachers or other

Cambridge Handbook 2012 (International) 46 3 Teacher assessment

Non-coursework speaking tests

3.2.3

Training and accreditation of teachers/examiners for noncoursework speaking tests

(a) Accreditation from Cambridge is not required to conduct non-coursework speaking tests, except in the case of Cambridge IGCSE English as a Second Language. (b) For Cambridge IGCSE English as a Second Language, the teacher who conducts the tests must have been accredited by Cambridge. Accreditation will usually be gained through successful completion of a speaking test training handbook. In some cases, Cambridge may instead grant accreditation on the basis of prior experience of conducting similar tests. For this, the Centres should seek permission in the first instance by writing to Cambridge, enclosing a CV detailing the teachers experience. (c) Speaking test handbooks are available for Cambridge IGCSE speaking tests. Cambridge recommends, in the interests of candidates, that teacher-examiners who are new to a syllabus should undergo training before conducting their first speaking tests. Cambridge reserves the right to insist that teacher-examiners undergo training, should the external moderator judge this necessary.

procedures. Teachers must not remove materials from the Centre and must store them in secure conditions in accordance with Cambridge regulations until after the speaking test period specified on the Cambridge timetable has passed (even if the Centre has completed its tests before that time).

3.2.6

Malpractice in non-coursework speaking tests


Entries 2 Results and certificates 6 6 Exam day 5 Before the exams 4 Teacher assessment 3

In submitting speaking test marks to Cambridge, a Centre is deemed to be making a statement that it has fulfilled Cambridges requirements for the conduct of the speaking test. It is intended that the conversation elements of speaking tests will be lively and spontaneous. Cambridge will deal with any suspicion of collusion in the conduct of speaking tests (for example, candidates or teachers using pre-determined scripts, or rehearsal of roleplays where these form a part of the examination) in accordance with Cambridges malpractice procedures.

3.2.7

Timetabling of non-coursework speaking tests

(a) The speaking tests take place before the main examination period and Centres should consult the front of the timetable for details. Each Centre decides on a convenient period within the specified dates. (b) Once started, Centres must make sure that testing is as continuous as possible. (c) Centres must write to Cambridge to get permission if they need to conduct its speaking tests after the stipulated period.

3.2.4

Estimated entries

Cambridge sends 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. For more information see the >Cambridge Administrative Guide.

3.2.8

3.2.5

Special instructions for foreign and second language Cambridge IGCSE non-coursework speaking tests

Marking non-coursework speaking tests (internal assessment)

Four working days before the first day of speaking tests, the Head of Centre should make available to the head of department or appropriate teacherexaminer the confidential teachers notes booklet. Teacher-examiners must allow sufficient time to familiarise themselves with the materials and

(a) The teacher-examiner must award marks for speaking tests in accordance with the criteria specified in the mark scheme for the component. Teacher-examiners will find this in either the teachers notes booklet, for syllabuses where applicable, 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

Cambridge Handbook 2012 (International) 3 Teacher assessment 47

Preparation 1

Non-coursework speaking tests

the speaking test the teacher-examiner will fill in the marks under the separate headings on the working mark sheet. The teacher-examiner will then transfer the marks to the MS1 sheet or whichever method is used for submitting marks to Cambridge.

3.2.10 Failure to complete noncoursework speaking tests


(a) Where the speaking test mark contributes to the overall grade for the syllabus, Centres must make every effort to examine absentee candidates. Candidates who do not take the speaking test and who are not eligible for special consideration 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 an overall grade.

3.2.9

Absent candidates

(a) If any candidate is absent at the time set aside by the Centre for the speaking tests, the Centre 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 candidates must not delay the despatch of the sample and mark sheets for moderation. However, where an absent 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 (MS1) or in the electronic marks file, but, leave it blank. Where arrangements are made to examine an absent candidate at a later date, the Centre must record the speaking test on a separate CD/cassette, in addition to the specified sample. As soon as the rescheduled test has taken place, the Centre must despatch the CD/ cassette and a copy of the working mark sheet that was submitted with the original sample, and which now includes the mark for the previously absent candidate to: Compliance Unit 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 Cambridge on a supplementary internal mark sheet. (b) The teacher-examiner must indicate as absent (A) on both the working and computer-printed mark sheet any candidate who 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.

3.2.11 Requests for special consideration for noncoursework speaking tests


(a) Where Cambridge has granted approval, the Centre may allow a candidate who failed to attend the speaking test to take the test after the main body of candidates. (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, Cambridge will consider a request for special consideration. (c) Cambridge will not accept a Centres failure to find a suitable examiner as grounds for granting special consideration.

3.2.12 Standardising of marking within Centres


(a) Normally, a Centre should appoint only one teacher-examiner for each syllabus. Where a Centre wants to use extra teacherexaminers because it has more than 30 candidates, it must seek permission to do so from Cambridge, by contacting the product manager for the relevant subject, 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, Cambridge requires Centres to standardise assessments across different teachers-examiners. This is to make sure, for a particular syllabus, that all candidates in the

Cambridge Handbook 2012 (International) 48 3 Teacher assessment

Non-coursework speaking tests

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 make sure 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 to ensure consistency for the whole Centre.

(d) Before despatching CDs or cassettes, teachers/examiners must carry out spotchecks to make sure 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 Cambridge immediately for advice.

3.2.15 Selection of samples


Entries 2 Results and certificates 6 6 Exam day 5 Before the exams 4 Teacher assessment 3

Details can be found in the >Cambridge Administrative Guide.

3.2.16 Instructions for the submission of non-coursework speaking test materials


Details can be found in the >Cambridge Administrative Guide.

3.2.13 Deadlines for submission of marks and samples for noncoursework speaking tests
Marks and samples for non-coursework speaking tests must arrive at Cambridge by the date specified in the >Cambridge Administrative Guide.

3.2.17 Failure to provide a sample for moderation


If Centres do not provide a sample for moderation Cambridge will not be able to issue results for the syllabuses concerned.

3.2.14 Recording of the sample for moderation


(a) Centres must make sure that speaking tests take place in the best possible conditions. Centres must make arrangements to use a suitably quiet room. There must also be a quiet area for candidates who are preparing for the test, supervised if possible, though this is not a requirement. The area must be inaccessible to other pupils. Remove or cover up any display material in the examination and preparation room which may be helpful to candidates. (b) Centres must check that good quality recording equipment is available, for example, a CD player, cassette player or digital voice recorder, with, whenever possible, a separate microphone. They must test the equipment in the room where the tests are to be held, to check the quality of the recording (c) During the speaking test, teacher-examiners must check that the recording equipment is recording.

3.2.18 Retaining non-coursework speaking test evidence


Centres must keep the following materials for at least six weeks after the examination results are published: the Centres copy of the MS1 computerprinted mark sheet(s) a copy of the working mark sheet(s).

3.2.19 Dealing with unsatisfactory practice


(a) Cambridge will provide further guidance where individual teachers or Centres fail to meet requirements for speaking tests. (b) Where in Cambridges judgement a significant problem has occurred, Cambridge may require the Centre to find another person to conduct and assess the speaking tests in future examination series.

3.2.20 Return of speaking tests


Cambridge will not return to Centres speaking tests that have been submitted for moderation.

Cambridge Handbook 2012 (International) 3 Teacher assessment 49

Preparation 1

4 Before the exams


4.1
4.1.1

Pre-exam despatches
Receipt of question papers and examination materials

(a) Cambridge sends question papers and examination materials to Centres before the examination period begins. (b) It is the responsibility of the Head of Centre to make sure that all deliveries are checked carefully when received. (c) The following must be checked: (i) that the correct Centre number and address is shown on the outer packaging (ii) that the correct number of boxes have arrived (iii) that outer packaging is intact and there is no sign of damage or tampering. (d) The contents must also be checked carefully on arrival by the Head of Centre, or the exams officer, in the presence of another senior member of staff. (e) Records must be kept by the Centre showing that the contents were checked on arrival and that materials listed in the despatch note have been received. This can be recorded either by: (i) ticking next to the listed materials on the despatch note (ii) creating a list of all materials received in each delivery. (f) Records must be dated and signed by the Head of Centre or exams officer and by the member of staff who witnessed the delivery being checked.

In this section
50 51 52 54 4.1 Pre-exam despatches 4.2 Storing confidential materials 4.3 Preparing the exam room 4.4 Training invigilators

(g) The records must be kept by the Centre until Cambridge has issued certificates and must be made available if Cambridge asks to see them. (h) The Centre must notify Cambridge immediately of any problems, for example: if there are discrepancies between the material received and the despatch note if the material does not appear to meet Centre requirements if the material has been significantly damaged in transit if the seal of any question paper packet is not intact, or if there is any indication of tampering if there seems to have been a delay in the delivery of the question papers

Cambridge Handbook 2012 (International) 50 4 Before the exams

Storing confidential materials

if a question paper packet has been opened by mistake.

If the despatch has been damaged or opened in transit, the Centre should photograph the despatch as evidence and email the photos to Cambridge. Centres should check question paper packets against the examination timetable and arrange them in order to reduce the possibility of opening a packet at the wrong time.

Keep the keys to both the cabinet and the room in a secure place where unauthorised people cannot access them. If you need advice on security arrangements please contact the Compliance Unit at international@cie.org.uk (c) Tell Cambridge immediately if the security of the question papers or confidential 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 set for the examination concerned, except for the circumstances given below. (i) Cambridge requires Centres to open confidential material such as instructions for practical examinations before the examination. Centres must make arrangements to safeguard confidential instructions after opening. They must not remove them from the Centre and when not in use must keep them in secure conditions. It is up to the Head of Centre to make sure that these materials remain confidential and that no information about these materials reaches candidates. Under no circumstances should Centres discuss the confidential instructions with any other Centre. Centres should refer enquiries about confidential instructions to Cambridge. (ii) Centres can open certain literature question paper packets for plain text or open book examinations one hour before the examination in order to check the page references to specific editions of 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) Where confidential material is pre-recorded on CDs or other media, Centres must make arrangements, before the examination, to test the material according to Cambridges instructions. (iv) Centres must open erratum notices as soon as they are received, unless otherwise stated on the envelope. Once

4.2
(a)

Storing confidential materials


Centres must store their question papers securely and in full compliance with Cambridges regulations. Store question papers unopened, in a place of high security, ideally a strong safe. If a safe is not available, use a non-portable, lockable, reinforced metal cabinet or similar. Where a filing cabinet is used fit it with a locking bar and bolt it to the floor or wall. Keep the safe in a securely locked room in a fixed building where walls, ceilings and floors are of solid construction. The door to the secure room must be solid or reinforced and fitted with strong hinges. Any glass panels in the door must be reinforced or have bars. The room should ideally be located on an upper floor with no internal or external windows. Where this is not possible, fit windows with bars (as illustrated below) or fit the room with an alarm.

(b)

A minimum of two and a maximum of three senior authorised people must be key holders, for example the Head of Centre and Examinations Officer. Only key holders should have access to the secure room.

Cambridge Handbook 2012 (International) 4 Before the exams 51

Results and certificates 6 6

Exam day 5

Before the exams 4

Teacher assessment 3

Entries 2

Preparation 1

Preparing the exam room

read they must then be placed in secure storage until the timetabled date and time of an examination. (e) Centres must store examination stationery and materials securely at all times so that no unauthorised person has access. Stationery that Cambridge provides must be used in Cambridges examinations only. (f) Secure materials downloaded from CIE Direct on the day of an examination or assessment must be kept in a safe or secure cabinet until needed.

If a Centre wants to use an alternative venue, the following information must be submitted to Cambridge: the new venues location in relation to the Centres location (distance, full address details) the proposed method of transferring the question papers on the day of examination the proposed method of transferring the candidate scripts back to the Centre (daily) the security arrangements for storing question papers and scripts at the alternative venue confirmation that no examination will be split across venues confirmation that the new location conforms to all Cambridges examination accommodation requirements.

(g) Centres should send all answer scripts without delay after an examination, on the same day wherever possible, and by the quickest and most secure method, for example, by courier. If the Centre has to keep answer scripts overnight they must be sealed and stored under the same secure conditions as question paper packets and other confidential examination material. (h) If a candidate enters for Cambridge examinations at a Centre where a relative is employed, the Head of Centre must make sure that during the examination series the relative does not have unaccompanied access to examination materials, either before the examination (for example, question papers), or after the examination (for example, answer scripts). If the relative is acting as the Centres exams officer, the Centre must make sure that another person is present for all the administration relating to the candidates examinations. A member of Centre staff other than the candidates relative must authorise any documentation submitted to Cambridge for the examinations, (for example, access arrangements forms). This includes medical certificates submitted for access arrangements and special consideration.

4.3.2

Examination room

Examination rooms must provide candidates with appropriate conditions. Centres must pay due attention to such matters as access, heating, ventilation, lighting and outside noise. Centres must carry out practical examinations under conditions that give all candidates the opportunity to finish their tasks and display their true level of attainment in the subject. Centres must conduct Art and Design practical examinations, at all levels, in line with written examinations.

4.3.3

Display material

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

4.3
4.3.1

Preparing the exam room


Examination venue

4.3.4

Clock

A reliable clock must be visible to all candidates in the examination room.

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

4.3.5

Notice to Candidates and displaying information

Centres must display the Cambridge poster Notice to Candidates both inside and outside the examination room.

Cambridge Handbook 2012 (International) 52 4 Before the exams

Preparing the exam room

Centres must clearly display to all candidates: the Centre number the start and finish times of each examination.

Wherever possible, for all written examinations: (a) all candidates must face in the same direction (b) each candidate must have their own 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 far enough apart that other candidates cannot see their work or make contact (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 similar (e) where candidates sit an examination in a language laboratory, the minimum distance in all directions from the centre of one candidates chair to the centre of anothers must be 1.25 metres. If Centres cannot meet this requirement they must use screened booths instead where candidates sit an examination in a computer laboratory, the minimum distance between the outer edge of one monitor to the other should be 1.25 metres. If a Centre cannot meet this requirement, candidates must sit at alternate monitors or in screened booths

See the example image on page 56. The Notice to Candidates is available on the Cambridge website or via CIE Direct. It is also included on the candidates statement of entry.

(f)

For multiple-choice papers, spacing desks 1.25 metres may not be enough to prevent candidates seeing, intentionally or otherwise, the work of others. Where this is the case the exams officer must use an alternative method so that no candidates work can be overseen by any other candidates. This may be achieved by : increasing the space between candidates desks seating alternating rows of candidates taking different examinations using additional invigilators.

(g) candidates must sit in candidate number order, with index numbers on each desk. Centres may hold other examinations in the room at the same time, provided no disturbance is caused. Any candidate suffering from a contagious disease must take the examination in a separate room where the Centre can apply all examination regulations. On completion of the examination the Centre must photocopy the candidates script, seal the original in plastic and add a note to explain the situation. The Centre must pack the script separately from other scripts before posting with the main despatch of scripts. The Centre should inform Cambridge of this in writing either by email or fax.

If necessary, please contact Cambridge for advice about alternative methods. Cambridge shall retain the right to approve or query the steps that the exams officer has taken to prevent candidates seeing the work of others.

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Exam day 5

Before the exams 4

Teacher assessment 3

Seating arrangements must prevent candidates from viewing the work of others, intentionally or otherwise. The minimum distance in all directions from the centre of one candidates chair to the centre of anothers must be 1.25 metres (see below).

Entries 2

4.3.6

Seating arrangements

Preparation 1

Training invigilators

4.4

Training invigilators

(a) The invigilator is the person in the examination room responsible for the conduct of a particular examination. (b) The Head of Centre must make sure that suitably qualified and experienced adults carry out invigilation. The Head of Centre can decide who is suitable, however, they cannot let any relative of a candidate invigilate an examination by themselves. If the Head of Centre decides to use parents or relatives of a candidate they must ask them to complete Entries Form 1 before they invigilate any examinations. The Head of Centre must make sure that invigilators are fully briefed and trained before carrying out invigilation. (c) Invigilators must give their whole attention to the proper conduct of the examination and must not perform any other task (for example, marking, using a laptop), 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. The Centre must make arrangements so that the invigilators can observe each candidate in the examination room at all times. (ii) When only one invigilator is present, they must be able to get assistance easily, without leaving the examination room or disturbing candidates. A change of invigilators during an examination is allowed, provided the number of invigilators in the room does not fall below the number prescribed. (iii) Where there are both male and female candidates, Centres must ensure that both male and female invigilators are available to accompany candidates to the washroom, if required. Where there is a sole invigilator Centres must ensure that a male and female member of staff can be contacted by the invigilator without leaving the examination room or causing a disturbance to the candidates.

(v) For practical tests there must be one invigilator for every 15 candidates. A teacher of the subject should also be present at the start of the test and as necessary thereafter, to deal with technical difficulties, including matters of safety, and to help with invigilation in general. (vi) For listening tests a member of staff who speaks the language of the test should ideally be present to deal with any technical difficulties. A teacher who prepared the candidates for the subject under examination must not be the sole invigilator. (vii) In examinations in which questions or passages must be read to candidates it is essential that an invigilator is present as well as 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 in parts 4 and 5 of the handbook and the contents of the Notice to Candidates, as well as any specific regulations relating to the subjects being examined. (f) Further guidance for invigilation of examinations is available on CIE Direct. These guidance notes are intended as reminders for invigilators who must only use them in conjunction with this handbook.

Administrative forms
Forms available from the Exams Officers section of the Cambridge website www.cie.org.uk/examsofficers Declaration of Interest: Entries Form 1

(iv) A teacher who has prepared the candidates for the subject under examination must not be the sole invigilator at any time.

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Training invigilators

4.4.1

Key Times

The Key Time for a particular morning or afternoon examination session can be found at www.cie.org.uk/keytime. Candidates must be kept under Full Centre Supervision at the Key Time for an examination, as specified by Cambridge. If the Key Time is before the start of the examination, candidates must be supervised by invigilators from the Key Time until the start of the examination. They can have access to books and notes, and can talk to each other. If they have finished their examination, they may be allowed to leave the room, provided they are supervised by invigilators continuously from the time they leave until the Key Time. Once outside the exam room, they can have access to books and notes, and can talk to each other (provided they do disturb candidates who are still doing an examination). During supervision, candidates must not have access to telephones, mobile phones, laptops/ computers with or without internet access or any other means of external communication; they must not be allowed to communicate with anyone not under Full Centre Supervision. At least one invigilator must be present for every 30 candidates under Full Centre Supervision. Centres may need to timetable examinations outside of the Key Time: if the Key Time is before the examination the Centre must keep candidates under Full Centre Supervision from the Key Time until the examination ends; or,

4.4.2

Records of invigilator arrangements

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Centres must also keep signed records of the supervision arrangements for candidates under Full Centre Supervision.

Exam day 5

if the Key Time is after the examination the Centre must keep candidates under Full Centre Supervision until the Key Time.

Before the exams 4

Teacher assessment 3

Entries 2

Preparation 1

5 Exam day
5.1 At the beginning of the examination
Centres must make sure that candidates take their Cambridge exams in the correct timetabled session. Centres are allowed to start the examinations at any time within the sessions but must make sure that the Key Time is followed. Key Times can be found at www.cie.org.uk/keytime 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 finished the examination, they must be kept under Full Centre Supervision until the Key Time. Centres unable to meet this requirement must apply to Cambridge for a timetable deviation. Centres are responsible for informing candidates of examination times.

In this section
56 58 60 60 61 62 64 68 74 5.1 At the beginning of the examination 5.2 During the examination 5.3 Leaving the examination room 5.4 At the end of the examination 5.5 Despatching scripts 5.6 Dealing with the unexpected 5.7 Special consideration 5.8 Malpractice and maladministration 5.9 Special instructions for particular examinations

5.1.1

Identifying candidates

The Head of Centre must make sure that arrangements are in place to enable invigilators to carry out thorough identity checks. The Centre must require private candidates not known to the Centre to present evidence (for example, an ID photocard or passport), and check each time they attend a session that they are the same person who was entered for the examination.

5.1.2

Candidate numbers

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

5.1.3

Attendance registers

Before the examination Cambridge will send attendance registers and instructions to Centres. Centres must record the presence of candidates, in accordance with the instructions in the >Cambridge Administrative Guide. Failure to complete the attendance registers properly can lead to problems or delays for the issue of candidates results.

5.1.4

Seating plan

Centres must keep signed records of the seating plan for each examination session. Cambridge may request the seating plan at any time up to the issue of certificates.

5.1.5

Unauthorised materials

Candidates may take into the examination room only those articles, instruments or materials which are expressly permitted in the instructions on a question paper, Additional Materials List or in the syllabus booklet.

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At the beginning of the examination

pair of compasses graph paper.

5.1.7

Starting the examination

5.1.6

Stationery, materials and other equipment

The invigilator must make sure that only specified items are issued to the candidates. For multiple-choice tests individual pre-printed answer sheets are provided for each candidate. The invigilator must make sure that each answer sheet is given to the candidate whose name appears on it and that the sheets relate to the subject and the component being examined. Candidates must provide their own pens, pencils, ink, drawing instruments and erasers. Candidates must write their answers legibly in black or dark blue ink. Candidates must not use red or green ink. They must use soft pencils (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.

(a) Make sure candidates are seated in accordance with the seating arrangements. (b) Tell the candidates that they are subject to the rules of the examination. (c) Warn candidates that they must hand in any unauthorised material including food and drinks, which may only be allowed in the examination room with the 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 candidates have the necessary materials to take the examination. (e) Check that the question paper packets are the correct ones for the examinations and that they are intact. (f) Open the packets of question papers and place the question papers face upwards on the candidates desks. Tell the candidates that they must not open the question papers until told to do so.

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Exam day 5

Before the exams 4

Before each examination series, Cambridge will provide Centres with an Additional Materials List, which details all required extra materials for each examination and whether Cambridge or the Centre should provide them.

An examination is in progress from the time the candidates enter the examination room until all the scripts have been collected. Before candidates are allowed to start work, the invigilator must follow the instructions listed below.

Teacher assessment 3

Electronic items, including mobile phones and Bluetooth devices, must be switched off and be left outside the examination room. Other types of unauthorised material must either be left outside or handed to the invigilator before the examination begins. Materials handed to the invigilator must be placed out of reach of the candidates before and throughout the examination.

Cambridge does not list these specific extra materials on science question papers. Candidates are permitted to use calculators in all science papers.

Entries 2

Possession of unauthorised material by a candidate during the examination is a serious breach of regulations and may result in cancellation of examination grades. Centres must report all instances to Cambridge. Unauthorised materials include calculator cases, instruction leaflets, bags, non-transparent pencil cases, 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).

5.1.6.1

Extra stationery and materials for science papers

The following must be available to candidates in all science papers: ruler (300 mm) protractor set square

Preparation 1

During the examination

Question paper packets must normally remain sealed so that the invigilator can open them in the presence of candidates. There are special circumstances when this is not possible. For example, where more than one room is used or when there are large numbers of candidates, it is more sensible to place question papers face upward on desks before candidates enter the room. (g) 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. (h) Inform candidates of the contents of any erratum notices. The invigilator must not give any information about suspected errors in the paper except those stated on any erratum notices received. (i) Tell candidates that: (i) they must write their answers legibly using a black or dark blue ink or ball-point pen. Cambridge recommends that candidates do not use erasable pens (ii) they must not use any form of correcting medium, including correcting fluid, correcting pens and correcting tape. They should neatly cross through rough work but not obliterate it (iii) they must not use highlighters on their answer sheets or paper and it may be considered malpractice if they do. They are able to use highlighters on the question paper, however, to avoid the risk of candidates accidentally using highlighters on their answer sheet it is best practice to advise them not to use highlighters in the examination at all (j)

(iv) unless the question paper says something different, they must do all work (including rough work) on the examination stationery. The Centre must include any rough work with the answers sent to Cambridge (v) in the case of multiple-choice papers, they must do any rough work on the question paper. Tell candidates to write their name, Centre number, candidate number and the component code/paper details on their answer paper and to fill in any other details as required.

(k) Remind candidates that they must not communicate in any way with, seek help from, or give help to, any person while they are in the examination room. (l) Inform candidates of the time allowed for the examination and state 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 allow candidates extra time, before the official start of the examination, to read through the question paper.

5.2
5.2.1

During the examination


Supervision of the candidates

Invigilators must supervise the candidates throughout the whole examination and give full attention to this duty at all times.

5.2.2

Practical examinations

During a practical examination, some movement by candidates and spoken instructions may be necessary. Invigilators must limit this to what is essential to achieve the objectives of the examination without compromising security.

5.2.3 Important information


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 Cambridge Associate must notify Cambridge immediately, and later submit a full report.

Use of calculators

Candidates may use electronic calculators unless they are prohibited by the syllabus. Cambridge may, in consultation with the relevant Cambridge Associate, issue specific local regulations governing the use of electronic calculators. Where this happens, the local regulations will override the above regulation.

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During the examination

Where calculators are allowed, the Centre must tell candidates the following: (a) the calculator must be of a suitable size for use during an examination (b) the power supply for the calculator is the responsibility of the candidate and must be integral to the calculator. The candidate can bring a spare set of batteries into the examination (c) the working condition of the calculator is the responsibility of the candidate (d) the calculator must be silent, with a visual display only (e) Cambridge will not normally consider a calculator fault as justifying special consideration for the candidate (f) candidates must not have calculator cases, instruction leaflets or any instructions or formulae printed on the lid or cover of a calculator, or similar. Anything printed on a lid or cover that the candidate cannot remove must be securely covered

QWERTY keyboards built-in symbolic algebraic manipulations (output must be numeric not algebraic) symbolic differentiation or integration (output must be numeric not algebraic) capability of remote communication with other machines.

Cambridge does not recommend any particular brand of calculator.

5.2.4

Use of mathematical tables


Teacher assessment 3 Results and certificates 6 6 Exam day 5 Before the exams 4

Candidates can only use mathematical or statistical tables that are permitted by the subject syllabus or included in the additional materials section of the question paper. The Centre must provide these for the duration of the examination.

5.2.5

Use of dictionaries

(g) candidates must not borrow calculators from other candidates during the examination for any reason, although the invigilator can provide a candidate with a replacement calculator (h) candidates must clear any information and/or programs stored in the calculators 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 against the regulations (i) candidates can use programmable calculators. However, calculators with any of the following facilities are not allowed, unless stated otherwise in the syllabus: graphic display data banks dictionaries language translators retrieval or manipulation of text or formulae

Dictionaries are not allowed in Cambridge International A Level, Cambridge International AS Level and Cambridge O Level examinations, except where specifically permitted by the syllabus. Simple translation dictionaries are allowed in the Science and Mathematics Checkpoint examinations. They are not allowed in the English examination. Simple translation dictionaries are allowed in Cambridge 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 give a translation of the meaning or definition of the word. Electronic dictionaries are not allowed in examinations.

Cambridge Handbook 2012 (International) 5 Exam day 59

Entries 2

Cambridge regards the use of any such calculator as malpractice.

Preparation 1

Leaving the examination room

5.3

Leaving the examination room

(a) Candidates must hand in their work as soon as they are ready to leave the exam room or at the end of the exam. Centres must collect all answer scripts and question papers before candidates leave the room. Candidates cannot leave the examination room until after the Key Time of the examination has passed, unless the Centre keeps them under Full Centre Supervision until the Key Time has passed. (b) Candidates who leave the examination room temporarily must be accompanied by a member of staff. In cases where special consideration is applied for (for example, illness), the Centre may allow such candidates extra time to compensate for their temporary absence. (c) 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 and kept under Full Centre Supervision until the Key Time. If a candidate fails to attend a period of Full Centre Supervision after an examination then Cambridge will consider this as possible malpractice. (d) Whether or not they leave the examination room early, candidates must not remove any question papers or transcribed content of question papers. This includes 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.

Where invigilators permit candidates who arrive late the full working time to take their examination, they can allow such candidates to continue after the normal finishing time and tell them to stop writing after the extra time allowed. The invigilator must instruct the candidates: (a) to check they have entered all required information on their answer scripts (b) to make sure that their answers are correctly numbered (c) to group any loose sheets (including rough work) in the order in which questions were attempted and to fasten these and any extra answer sheets to the back of their answer scripts, or as otherwise instructed, with the string or tags provided (they must not use paperclips or staples).

5.4.2

Collecting answer scripts

Centres must collect all answer scripts before the candidates leave the examination room. Invigilators must sort answer scripts into the order shown on the attendance register (candidate number order), and check that all answer scripts are present and that candidates have used correct Centre and candidate numbers. Centres should pay particular attention to instructions on the return or otherwise of question paper inserts. Immediately after collation, the invigilator must hand answer scripts 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 Cambridge. They may not be read or photocopied by any person before to despatch, unless this is requested by Cambridge. If a candidate or other unauthorised person removes a script from the examination room, the Centre must tell Cambridge about the circumstances. The candidate should be warned that Cambridge may not accept the script.

5.4
5.4.1

At the end of the examination


Finishing the examination

Five minutes before the end of the examination, the invigilator must tell candidates how much time is left. At the end of the examination, the invigilator must tell candidates to stop writing and put their pens/ pencils on their desks immediately.

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5.4.3

Collecting question papers/24-hour security rule

Centres must keep all empty question paper packets secure until after the issue of results for the series. Cambridge may need them for investigations into suspected malpractice cases. Only designated Centre staff responsible for the collection of question papers can take a copy of the 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 until at least 24 hours have passed after the end of the examination or Key Time, whichever is later. Before candidates are released from supervision, Centres must audit the number of question papers at the end of the examination and check that this matches the number issued. After 24 hours have passed from the Key Time for a session, Centres can return papers to candidates/ Centre staff at their discretion. Centres must not return Cambridge International A Level Applied ICT papers and Cambridge IGCSE ICT papers to candidates.

unattended or disturbing candidates. Centres must also make sure that they have both male and female supervisors available to accompany candidates to the wash room if required. If a candidate fails to attend a period of Full Centre Supervision after an examination then Cambridge will consider this as possible malpractice. Centres must contact Cambridge immediately in such circumstances.

5.4.5

Unused stationery

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

5.5
5.5.1

Despatching scripts
Cambridge Pre-U Global Perspectives 9777/02 and 9777/03

5.4.4

Full Centre Supervision and the Key Time

5.5.2

Bar-coded labels

At the end of an examination candidates must not leave the examination room until an invigilator tells them to. Candidates are under examination conditions until they are told they can leave and have left the examination room. If an examination ends at or after the Key Time for the examination session then candidates can leave the examination room once the examination is finished, and no further supervision is required. If an examination ends before the Key Time for the examination session then candidates can only leave the examination room if they are moved to another location, and kept under Full Centre Supervision until the Key Time. If candidates need to leave the room during periods of Full Centre Supervision for whatever reason, they must be accompanied by a supervisor. Where there is only one supervisor, Centres must make sure that the supervisor has the means to summons help without leaving the room

(a) Centres are given adhesive labels for packets of candidates answer scripts. Centres must use these labels. (b) Centres are responsible for making sure that the correct label is attached to each packet of answer scripts.

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(d) If a Centre has not received a relevant barcoded label and the examination has been taken, the Centre must clearly state on the envelope the Centre number, syllabus and component for which it has enclosed answer scripts, the number of answer scripts enclosed and the candidate number range.

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(c) At the end of each examination series destroy any unused bar-coded labels.

Before the exams 4

Centres must submit all work electronically to Cambridge by the date given in the >Cambridge Administrative Guide. For details on acceptable file formats and naming conventions, please see the >Cambridge Administrative Guide.

Teacher assessment 3

Entries 2

Preparation 1

Dealing with the unexpected

5.5.3

Packing of answer scripts

Centres must follow the instructions set out in the >Cambridge Administrative Guide for packing and despatching answer scripts.

(e) If any candidates arrive after the Key Time or a candidate is admitted late into an examination room the following rules apply: the Centre must send the answer script to Cambridge in the normal way the Centre must indicate on the answer script any work completed after the official finishing time the Head of Centre must fill in Exam day Form 3 and return to Cambridge as quickly as possible. Reasons Cambridge may consider acceptable for late arrival

5.6
5.6.1

Dealing with the unexpected


Late arrival of candidates

(a) Centres may allow a candidate who arrives before the Key Time for an examination to enter the examination room to sit the examination. Centres do not need to notify Cambridge. (b) If a candidate arrives after the Key Time but before the end of the examination they are allowed to enter the room and sit the examination. Centres must warn the candidate that Cambridge may not accept their script. Centres do need to tell Cambridge if this happens by filling in Exam day Form 3. (c) When deciding whether to accept any of the work of a candidate who arrives late, Cambridge pays particular attention to the extent to which it considers the security of the examination was maintained, especially in relation to the time at which candidates entered the examination room. (d) The Centre, at its discretion, may allow the full time for the examination for a candidate who arrives after the scheduled start time.

5.6.1.1

In cases where the candidate is late for good reason and Cambridge is satisfied that there has been no breach of examination security (for example, supervision can be guaranteed by the Centre from the Key Time), Cambridge will accept the work completed in the whole of the examination, including that completed in any extra time allowed to make up for the late arrival. Examples of acceptable reasons are sudden illness or transport difficulties beyond the candidates control. 5.6.1.2 Unacceptable reasons for late arrival

In cases where a candidate is late because of negligence or oversight, and Cambridge is satisfied that there has been no breach of security (for example, supervision can be guaranteed by the Centre from the Key Time), Cambridge will accept the work completed in normal examination time. However, Cambridge will not accept any work completed in any extra time allowed. Examples of reasons which are not acceptable are oversleeping or misreading of the timetable. 5.6.1.3 Late arrival for a period of Full Centre Supervision

Important information
If a candidate is absent at the start of an examination, the Centre may want to contact the candidates parents/carers. The parents/ carers should be asked to keep the candidate under supervision at all times until the candidate is met by a member of Centre staff. In such circumstances the parent/carer and the candidate should sign a statement to confirm the supervision arrangements which were put in place. Cambridge will consider each case in light of statements from the parent/carer, the candidate and the Centre.
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(a) 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 already under Full Centre Supervision.

Dealing with the unexpected

(b) When deciding whether to accept any of the work of by a candidate who arrived late for a period of required Full Centre Supervision for an examination, Cambridge will pay particular attention to the extent to which it considers the security of the examination was maintained, especially in relation to the Key Time. (c) Whenever a candidate is admitted late into a period of Full Centre Supervision the following rules apply: the Centre must send the answer script to Cambridge in the normal way the Head of Centre must complete Exam day Form 3, and return to Cambridge as quickly as possible.

5.6.3.1 Stage 1

Appeal process for late arrivals

(a) At stage 1 the evidence is reviewed by senior staff within the Compliance Unit. All previous evidence is considered alongside any mitigating circumstances or new evidence submitted by the Centre.
Entries 2 Results and certificates 6 6 Exam day 5 Before the exams 4 Teacher assessment 3

(b) Cambridge will communicate their decision to the Centre in writing. Stage 2 This takes place if the Centre is not satisfied by the outcome of the stage 1 appeal. A request to go to stage 2 will only be accepted if made by the Centre; no requests will be accepted directly from a candidate. (a) At stage 2 Cambridge will consider the appeals against the decisions made. (b) The Cambridge Appeals Committee consists of a Cambridge director or assistant director who will act as chair, the regulations officer who will minute the meeting and at least two independent panel members. If appropriate, other subject, assessment or specialist staff may be invited to provide further information. The Appeals Committee will review the evidence and decide what action, if any, should be taken. The Committee considers each case on an individual basis in the light of all the information available. (c) The outcome of a stage 2 appeal is final and Cambridge will not enter into further correspondence about an appeal with the Centre.

5.6.2

Candidates arriving after the examination has finished

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. The Centre must tell the candidate that Cambridge may issue a No Result in the subject in question.

5.6.3

Appealing against late arrival decisions

Cambridge will communicate the outcome of reported incidences of late arrivals to Centres in writing. If the Centre wants to appeal, the Head of Centre must send any appeal within 28 days from the date of notification of the decision. No requests for an appeal will be accepted directly from a candidate; all appeals must be supported by the Centre. When making an appeal, Centres should provide any extra information or evidence they would like Cambridge to consider. Once a Centre has submitted an appeal, all communication relating to the case must be in writing. Cambridge will not enter into any communication about an appeal with candidates or their parents/ guardians. Cambridge will inform the Centre/Cambridge Associate of the outcome of their appeal within 28 days of the date of the appeal.

5.6.4

Irregular conduct

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

Administrative forms
Forms available from the Exams Officers section of the Cambridge website www.cie.org.uk/examsofficers Late Arrivals: Exam day Form 3

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Preparation 1

Special consideration

(b) It is the duty of the Head of Centre to make sure that they report all cases of irregularity or misconduct in connection with the examination to Cambridge as soon as possible. The Head of Centre can expel a candidate from the examination room, but they should only take such action when it is felt to be essential or when the presence of a candidate would cause disruption to others. (c) Any infringement of the regulations may lead to disqualification of the candidate. The decision on disqualification rests with Cambridge.

5.7
5.7.1

Special consideration
Definition of special consideration

Special consideration is a post-exam adjustment made to a candidates mark, by an awarding body, to make allowances for any adverse circumstances, for example illness, bereavement or temporary injury. Special consideration can only go some way towards assisting a candidate affected by a potentially wide range of difficulties, emotional or physical, which may influence their performance in examinations. Special consideration cannot alter 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. Cambridge can make only minor adjustments to the mark awarded because to do more than this would jeopardise the assessment standard. All examinations measure a candidates knowledge and skills. There are minimum requirements which are set out below. The overall grades must reflect the level of attainment demonstrated in the examination. They do not necessarily reflect the candidates potential level of ability, if attainment has been considerably affected over a long period of time. The grade issued will not necessarily match the candidates forecast grade. Cambridge will base its decision whether 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.

5.6.5

Emergencies

In an emergency situation the safety of candidates and staff is the most important thing. If it is safe and practicable to do so, the invigilators should take the following steps to make sure the examination remains secure: evacuate the examination room make sure candidates are fully supervised while they are out of the examination room, so there can be no collusion or external communication make sure that all 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 feasible to do so, the point at which the interruption occurred note the time and length of the interruption allow candidates the full working time for the examination if there are 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 finish the examination make a full report of the incident and of the action taken, for immediate submission to Cambridge.

5.7.2

Principles governing special consideration

(a) Cambridge assesses all candidates according to the same marking criteria so that grades and certificates have the same validity. (b) Cambridge assesses all candidates on what they know and can do, not on what they might have achieved if circumstances had been different. (c) Special consideration must not give the candidate an advantage over other candidates.

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Special consideration

(d) Special consideration must not interfere with the integrity of the assessment, and Cambridge will therefore restrict it in certain syllabuses.

(f)

5.7.3

Cambridge Primary Checkpoint and Cambridge Checkpoint

Centres cannot apply for special consideration for Cambridge Primary Checkpoint and Cambridge Checkpoint candidates. It is not possible to make adjustments for candidates due to the diagnostic nature of the Cambridge Primary Checkpoint and Cambridge Checkpoint tests.

Centres must complete the form for each candidate. It may be appropriate for the Head of Centre/exams 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 it to a list of all the candidates affected, and/or a letter.

5.7.4

Making applications for special consideration

(g) Cambridge will not accept invigilator reports, or applications included with scripts, as applications for special consideration. The Centre must fill in the correct form and send it directly to Cambridge. (h) Cambridge will acknowledge all approved applications. Cambridge will not give the Centre specific details about action taken during the special consideration process. If the application is rejected, Cambridge will inform the Centre of the reasons. If the case is referred to a team of senior examiners for consideration, known as grade review, Cambridge will inform the Centre in writing. (i) In cases of lost/damaged coursework or a shortfall in coursework, the Head of Centre/ Examinations Officer should complete and submit the relevant form.

(a) Centres should apply using Exam day Form 7. The Head of Centre/exams officer should submit to Cambridge one form per candidate. Cambridge will not accept applications if parents/carers or candidates submit them directly. (b) Cambridge cannot guarantee to consider a Centres request if it does not receive the correct information. (c) Centres must submit applications within seven days of the last examination in the series in each syllabus. Cambridge 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 series (for example, 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 make sure that Cambridge receives all necessary information in time for the issue of results. (e) A friend or relative of the candidate should not produce 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. Cambridge reserves the right to refuse evidence produced by a friend or relative.

5.7.5

Candidates present for the assessment but disadvantaged

(a) Cambridge will normally give special consideration by applying an allowance of marks to each component affected in a
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Administrative forms
Forms available from the Exams Officers section of the Cambridge website www.cie.org.uk/examsofficers Special Consideration: Exam day Form 7 Special Consideration (Shortfall in Coursework): Teacher assessment Form 2 Special Consideration (Lost Coursework): Teacher assessment Form 3

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particular scheme of assessment. The size of the allowance depends on the nature and extent of the illness or misfortune. (b) Cambridge 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 (for example, whether the written papers or coursework are affected, or whether an oral or practical is involved).

5.7.7

Unacceptable reasons for special consideration

Candidates will not be eligible for special consideration if their preparation for, or performance in, the examination is affected by: (a) long-term illness or other difficulties during the course affecting revision time, unless the illness or circumstances manifest themselves at the time of the assessment (b) bereavement occurring more than six months before the assessment, unless an anniversary has been reached at the time of the assessment or there are ongoing implications such as inquests or court cases (c) domestic inconvenience, such as moving house, lack of facilities, taking holidays (including school/exchange visits and field trips) at the time of the assessment; (d) minor disturbance in the examination caused by candidates, such as bad behaviour and mobile phones (e) the consequences of committing a crime (f) the consequences of taking alcohol or any other non-prescribed drugs

5.7.6

Candidates absent from a timetabled component 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, Cambridge may make an adjustment to the final grade. Cambridge can only do this if the candidate satisfied the minimum requirements. Cambridge cannot give advice about whether a candidate is fit to take an examination. Centre staff should follow 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, Cambridge 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 per cent of the total assessment. (c) For Science practical examinations, to ensure fairness for candidates when calculating an assessed grade due to illness, Cambridge may require the Centre to submit evidence of the candidates practical attainment throughout their course. This is in addition to the required medical evidence.

(g) the consequences of disobeying the Centres internal regulations (h) the failure to prepare candidates properly for the examination for whatever reason (i) (j) staff shortages, building work or lack of facilities misreading the instructions of the question papers and answering the wrong questions

(k) making personal arrangements such as a wedding, or holiday arrangements which conflict with the examination timetable (l) submitting no coursework at all, unless coursework is scheduled for a restricted period of time, rather than during the course

(m) missing all examination and internally assessed components (n) failure to cover the course as a consequence of joining part way through

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(o) permanent disability unless illness affects the candidate at the time of the assessment (p) failure without good reason to process access arrangements on time.

5.7.8

Shortfall in coursework

(b) If a candidate fails to complete any coursework they will receive a No Result for that syllabus. (c) Centres are required to fill in Teacher assessment Form 2 stating how much of the coursework the candidate has completed overall and giving a breakdown of marks across the assessment objectives. Cambridge will consider the remaining time available for the candidate to address the shortfall before it sends a response to the Centre. Candidates should always attempt the required coursework. Cambridge will not normally agree to arrangements of reduced coursework in advance. (d) Cambridge will not grant a shortfall in coursework adjustment to allow for the Centres individual teaching arrangements.

(b) A Centre gives a candidate an incorrect paper and is aware of the error at the time of the examination they may give the candidate the correct paper, but only if they are still under supervised conditions and able to continue with the examination. If the Centre does not realise their mistake Cambridge will tell them once they have the candidates script. In both cases the Centre should send the special consideration form to Cambridge as soon as they are aware of the issue. (c) In exceptional circumstances beyond the Centres ability to reasonably predict and plan for, for example, earthquakes, war or

5.7.9

Lost or damaged coursework Administrative forms

(a) Where possible, candidates must not be penalised for inadvertent loss of, or damage to, coursework. The Centre must tell Cambridge about the circumstances leading to lost or damaged coursework as soon as possible by completing Teacher assessment Form 3. The Centre must be able to verify that the work was done and that it was monitored while it was in progress.

Special Consideration (Shortfall in Coursework): Teacher assessment Form 2 Special Consideration (Lost Coursework): Teacher assessment Form 3

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(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, for example, 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 per cent of the total coursework requirement.

(b) Where the Centre has marks in its records for the missing internally-assessed coursework, Cambridge will allow the Centre to submit these in the normal manner. If work is lost before being marked, the Centre must send any existing coursework for the candidates affected, together with a copy of the form and the moderation sample. If no work exists, the Centre must include a copy of the form in the sample submission. (c) If a candidate fails to complete any coursework they will receive a No Result for that syllabus.

5.7.10 Other situations requiring special considerations


(a) There may be cases requiring special considerations that are particularly complex. Cambridge may refer such cases to our subject specialists or senior examiner for a subject-specific decision on how to award special consideration. This means that the results may not show the special consideration enhancement immediately.

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epidemics, Cambridge may consider, at its sole discretion, accepting alternative forms of evidence of candidate attainment. Cambridge will always make any decision in such a matter in full compliance with the Cambridge Code of Practice.

5.7.11 Appeals against the outcome of applications for special consideration


Cambridge will communicate the outcome of special consideration applications to Centres in writing. If the Centre wants to appeal, the Head of Centre must send any appeal in writing within 28 days from the date of notification of the decision. No requests for an appeal will be accepted directly from a candidate and all appeals must be supported by the Centre. When making an appeal, Centres should provide Cambridge with any extra information or evidence they would like considered. Once a Centre has submitted an appeal, all communication relating to the case must be in writing. Cambridge will not enter into any communication about an appeal with candidates or parents/carers. Cambridge will inform the Centre/Cambridge Associate of the outcome of their appeal within 28 days of the date of the appeal.

(b) The Cambridge Appeals Committee consists of a Cambridge director or assistant director who will act as chair, the regulations officer who will minute the meeting and at least two independent panel members. Other subject, assessment or specialist staff may be invited to give extra information as required. The Appeals Committee will review the evidence and decide what action, if any, should be taken. The Committee will consider each case on an individual basis in the light of all the information available. (c) The outcome of a stage 2 appeal is final and Cambridge will not enter into further correspondence.

5.7.13 Honorary certificates


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 Cambridge.

5.8
5.8.1

Malpractice and maladministration


Introduction

5.7.12 Special consideration appeal process


Stage 1 (a) At stage 1 the evidence is reviewed by senior staff within the Compliance Unit. All previous evidence is considered alongside any new evidence or mitigating circumstances submitted by the Centre. (b) The Centre/Cambridge Associate will be notified of any decision made in writing. Stage 2 This takes place if the Centre is not satisfied by the outcome of the stage 1 appeal. A request to go to stage 2 will only be accepted if requested by the Centre. (a) At stage 2 Cambridge will consider the appeal against the decisions made.
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Malpractice and maladministration are those actions that may threaten the integrity of Cambridge examinations and certification. The Head of Centre is responsible for immediately reporting all cases of suspected malpractice and maladministration to Cambridge. This section: establishes the regulations with which examinations must comply defines malpractice in the context of examinations sets out the rights and responsibilities of Cambridge, Centre staff and candidates in relation to such matters describes the procedures Centres must follow in cases where there is reason to suspect that the regulations have been broken.

Malpractice and maladministration

Cambridge requires Heads of Centres to inform candidates and Centre staff of their individual responsibilities as set out in these guidelines.

inform other examining bodies of the details of the case and the action taken inform the police in serious cases involving theft, impersonation or the falsification of documents.

5.8.2

Cambridge procedures for dealing with suspected malpractice


(f)

(b) Cambridge reserves the right to withhold the issue of results while investigations are ongoing. Depending on the outcome of the investigation, Cambridge may either release or permanently withhold results. (c) Centres must send any documents requested to Cambridge within 28 days of the date of the request. If they do not the Malpractice Committee will review the case on the basis of evidence already presented. (d) Following review, Cambridge will refer the matter to the Cambridge Malpractice Committee, who will decide what action, if any, Cambridge should take. The Committee will consider each case on an individual basis in the light of all the information available at the time. (e) Cambridge 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 serious cases the disqualification may extend to all subjects taken in a series) ban a candidate from entering Cambridge examinations for up to five years

(h) Cambridge will not consider any requests for post-result services for any syllabus component(s) for which malpractice has been confirmed.

5.8.3

Suspected candidate malpractice


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The following are examples of malpractice by candidates. The list is not exhaustive and Cambridge 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 disruptive behaviour in the examination room (including the use of offensive language) bringing unauthorised material into the examination room, (for example, notes, study guides and personal organisers, own blank paper, calculators, dictionaries (when prohibited), mobile phones or other electronic devices) bringing 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 examinationrelated (or attempting to) by any means

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(a) Cambridge will acknowledge the receipt of reports of malpractice. When dealing with suspected malpractice, Cambridge will deal primarily with the Head of Centre or their nominated representative. Cambridge expects Heads of Centres to supervise personally all investigations resulting from an allegation of malpractice. It is always in the best interests of candidates, Centre staff and invigilators if Centres respond speedily and openly to all requests for an investigation.

Cambridge may impose other penalties at the discretion of the Malpractice Committee. 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) Cambridge will inform the Heads of Centre of decisions in writing as soon as possible after decisions are made. The Head of Centre must communicate the outcome to the individuals concerned.

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impersonation; pretending to be someone else, or arranging for another person to take ones 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 persons work as if it were the candidates own theft of anothers work the deliberate destruction of anothers 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.

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 learners or that provided by Cambridge failure to keep learner computer files secure assisting or prompting candidates with the production of answers.

5.8.5

Suspected malpractice discovered by a Centre

(a) If suspected malpractice is discovered the Centre must complete and submit Exam day Form 9 to Cambridge at the earliest opportunity. (b) If the conduct of a candidate is such that their continued presence in the examination room would cause disruption to other candidates the Centre may remove the candidate from the examination room. Centres must report to Cambridge 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 (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

5.8.4

Suspected Centre maladministration

The following are examples of malpractice by Centre staff. The list is not exhaustive and Cambridge may consider other instances of malpractice at its discretion: moving the time or date of a fixed examination (outside the window ) without notifying Cambridge and obtaining permission. failure to maintain Full Centre Supervision in relation to the Key Time for Cambridge IGCSE, Cambridge O Level and Cambridge International AS and A Level failure to keep examination papers secure before the examination obtaining unauthorised access to examination material before an examination

Administrative forms
Forms available from the Exams Officers section of the Cambridge website www.cie.org.uk/examsofficers Malpractice: Exam day Form 9

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handwritten statements from the candidates concerned any unauthorised material found in a candidates possession seating plans (if appropriate) details of the procedures followed by the Centre for advising staff and candidates of Cambridge regulations for the conduct of its examinations details of any investigation carried out by the Centre.

(c) Cambridge will consider any statement of mitigating circumstances provided by the Centre as well as any recommendation about the penalty the Centre considers appropriate. Cambridge will make all final decisions concerning a case.

5.8.7

Malpractice in Centre-based assessments


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(d) Cambridge will consider any statement of mitigating circumstances provided by the Centre as well as any recommendation about the penalty the Centre considers appropriate. Cambridge will make all final decisions concerning the case.

(a) If malpractice in Centre-based assessments is discovered before the date for final entry, the Centre should resolve the matter internally and may exercise discretion as to whether or not to enter the candidate(s) concerned. If the Centre subsequently enters such candidate(s), it must not give credit for any work submitted which is not the candidates own. 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 Cambridge. If the Centre cannot authenticate the work of any candidate(s) because of suspected malpractice then they should give a mark of zero for the piece of coursework concerned. If suspected malpractice is identified by Cambridge, the matter will be referred to the Centre for investigation. (c) Reports of cases of malpractice in Centrebased assessments must include: written statements that the candidate(s) involved have been notified of the report and that they are aware of its content a detailed account of the investigation carried out by the Centre written statements from staff concerned handwritten statements from candidates concerned seating plans (if appropriate) details of the procedures followed by the Centre for advising staff and candidates of Cambridge regulations for the production of assessments.

5.8.6

Suspected malpractice discovered by Cambridge

(a) If Cambridge becomes aware of suspected malpractice they will send a report with full details of the alleged malpractice to the Centre concerned. Cambridge will ask the Head of Centre to conduct a full investigation into the alleged malpractice and to submit a written report. (b) Reports from the Head of Centre following the investigation of suspected malpractice cases 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 written statements from the invigilators and other staff concerned handwritten statements from the candidates concerned seating plans (if appropriate) details of the procedures followed by the Centre for advising staff and candidates of Cambridge regulations for the conduct of its examinations.

(d) Cambridge will consider any statement of mitigating circumstances provided by the

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Centre and any recommendation about the penalty the Centre considers appropriate. Cambridge will make all final decisions concerning a case.

ban the Centre from entering Cambridge examinations inform other awarding bodies of the details of the case and the action taken inform the police and other relevant authorities.

5.8.8

Malpractice and maladministration by Centre staff

(a) Cambridge will deem any non-compliance with the guidelines for the conduct of the examinations, or any action by a member of staff to contravene Cambridge regulations, as maladministration or malpractice by the Centre. (b) Centres must immediately report actual or suspected cases of maladministration or malpractice by staff to Cambridge. They must also complete and submit Exam day Form 9. (c) The Head of Centre must carry out the initial investigation into any cases of alleged malpractice or maladministration by a member of Centre staff. Cambridge will notify the Head of Centre of any subsequent investigation required by Cambridge 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 Cambridge Malpractice Committee will consider each case and decide on the action to take. (f) The Cambridge Malpractice Committee may take the following actions: issue a warning about future conduct to the Centre or staff involved ban members of staff from any involvement in the administration of Cambridge examinations for a specified period of time

(g) Cambridge will endeavour to make sure that candidates are neither advantaged nor disadvantaged as a consequence of malpractice or maladministration by staff. However, it may be necessary to withhold results until the Committee has fully considered the case.

5.8.9

Procedures for investigating alleged malpractice

Cambridge will seek to establish the full facts and circumstances of any alleged malpractice and, where appropriate, information about the individuals conduct in other examinations. In certain circumstances, for example, when a candidates account of events is at variance with that of the Centres, Cambridge may deal directly with the candidate or the candidates representative.

5.8.10 Sanctions and penalties applied against candidates


(a) Cambridge, at its discretion, may impose sanctions and penalties against candidates found to have broken the regulations. (b) Heads of Centres retain sole discretion to take any further action that they deem appropriate in cases of candidate irregularity. (c) Cambridge will apply sanctions in order to reflect the particular circumstances of each case and any mitigating factors. (d) As Cambridge makes no assumptions on intended actions. Penalties are only based on the evidence presented.

Administrative forms
Forms available from the Exams Officers section of the Cambridge website www.cie.org.uk/examsofficers Malpractice: Exam day Form 9

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(e) All penalties must be justifiable, reasonable in their scale and consistent in their application. (f) Penalties will only apply to the series in which the offence has been committed and possible future series. (If evidence comes to light some considerable time after the offence, Cambridge may still apply a penalty to the series in which the offence was committed and to a later series.)

the individual could lose a university place the individual regrets his/her actions.

When making an appeal, Centres must provide Cambridge with any extra information or evidence they would like the Appeals Committee to consider. Once a Centre has submitted an appeal, all communication relating to the case must be in writing. Cambridge will not enter into any communication about an appeal with candidates or their parents. Cambridge will inform the Centre of the outcome of their appeal within 28 days of the date of the appeal. 5.8.14.1 Stage 1 (a) At stage 1 the evidence is reviewed by senior staff within the Compliance Unit. All previous evidence is considered alongside any new evidence or mitigating circumstances highlighted by the Centre. (b) The Centre will be notified in writing of any decision made. Stage 2 If the Centre is not satisfied by the outcome of the stage 1 appeal, they can request to go to stage 2. (a) At stage 2 the Cambridge Appeals Committee will consider the appeals against the decisions made. (b) The Cambridge Appeals Committee consists of a Cambridge director or assistant director who will act as chair, the regulations officer who will minute the meeting and at least two independent panel members. Other subject, assessment or specialist staff may be invited to give extra information as required. The Appeals Committee will review the evidence and decide what action, if any, should be taken. The Committee will consider each case on an individual basis in the light of all the information available. (c) The outcome of a stage 2 appeal is final and Cambridge will not enter into further correspondence. Malpractice appeal process

5.8.11 Cambridge Primary Checkpoint and Cambridge Checkpoint


For Cambridge Checkpoint and Cambridge Primary Checkpoint, Cambridge reserves the right to withhold results while any related malpractice investigations take place. Depending on the outcome of the investigation we may either release or permanently withhold the results.

5.8.12 Communicating decisions to members of staff and candidates


Cambridge will inform Heads of Centres in writing as soon as possible after decisions are made. It is the responsibility of the Head of Centre to communicate the decision to the individuals concerned, and to pass on warnings in cases where this is indicated.

5.8.13 Exchange of information with other awarding bodies and authorities


The majority of cases of malpractice are confidential between the individual Centre and Cambridge. However, in cases of serious malpractice, in order to preserve the integrity of the examination, it may be necessary for Cambridge to exchange information with other parties, for example, other awarding bodies.

5.8.14 Appeals against decisions of the Cambridge Malpractice Committee


The Head of Centre must send any appeal in writing within 28 days from the date of notification of the decision. The following reasons, in isolation, are not enough to merit an appeal: the individual did not intend to cheat the individual has a good academic record

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5.9
5.9.1

Special instructions for particular examinations


Practical examinations in science syllabuses

Centres must pass on enquiries about the confidential instructions to Cambridge or, in the case of local arrangements, to the Cambridge Associate. Under no circumstances should Centres open any question paper packets before the examination. 5.9.1.2 Materials

The effective delivery of a science curriculum requires an emphasis on practical work, whatever the level and type of assessment the Centre offers. The Centre must satisfy Cambridge that it is adequately equipped to teach the practical aspects of a subject as set out in the syllabus, and that it can keep to any requirements for practical assessment, before it can enter candidates for an examination in that syllabus. If Cambridge is not satisfied that the Centre is adequately equipped, for whatever reason, Cambridge may prevent the Centre offering the relevant Cambridge Science syllabus examinations because they are unable to prepare candidates properly. Centres can order Cambridges Planning Science in Secondary Schools from the Publications department. This publication provides guidance for Heads of Centres, Cambridge Associates and science specialists involved in the design and commissioning of new, or refurbishing of 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). 5.9.1.1 Confidential instructions

In addition to apparatus and materials obtained from local sources, Cambridge may supply some materials or, by special arrangements with Cambridge, Centres may obtain them from particular firms. Materials supplied by Cambridge will be clearly labelled and Cambridge will give directions for their issue in syllabus-specific confidential instructions. Centres must check materials and specimens provided by Cambridge against the list provided as soon as they arrive. Centres must report any discrepancies to Cambridge immediately. Centres must open the packets containing perishable specimens (for example, enzymes for biological practical experiments) as soon as they arrive and keep them in a refrigerator that is not accessible to unauthorised people. The Head of Centre, along with the supervisor, is responsible for the safe and secure confidential handling of all materials until they are used in the examination. No information about these materials must reach candidates. After the examination, Centres must return all microscope slides to Cambridge, unless otherwise stated. In some cases Cambridge may allow Centres to keep material and pay replacement costs, using the form enclosed with the material. Unless stated otherwise in the confidential instructions to supervisors, Cambridge may charge Centres for the cost of materials not returned in good condition. 5.9.1.3 Large numbers of candidates

Requirements for practical examinations are given in syllabus-specific confidential instructions. Cambridge sends these instructions to Centres several weeks before 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 carry out proper preparations before the examination session. Under no circumstances must any information in the instructions reach candidates. Centres must keep confidential instructions under secure conditions at all times and it is the responsibility of the Head of Centre to make sure that the contents remain confidential. Under no circumstances must Centres discuss the instructions with any other Centre.

If more candidates are entered for a practical test at any Centre than can be accommodated at one time, the Centre may divide candidates into two groups or more if necessary. Both groups must take the test on the same day, with the minimum possible delay between sessions. The Centre must make careful arrangements to keep the groups apart until all candidates have taken the test, and must maintain the security of the examination at all times. Centres must notify Cambridge in advance of any such arrangement.

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Centres must make sure that no prior knowledge of the test is gained by candidates waiting to take 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 taken the test. Centres must supervise all candidates at the Key Time on the timetable. Candidates may be taking the examination or they may be under Full Centre Supervision, before or after taking the examination. If the Centre has divided the candidates into two groups they can schedule the examination so that one group finishes at (or close to) the Key Time, and the other group starts at (or close to) the Key Time. This will ensure that the amount of time 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 should: arrange the groups of candidates so that the sittings do not overlap timetable the practical examination so that the changeover between the two groups is earlier than the Key Time (the Centre will need to supervise the first group of candidates after their practical examination) delay the start of the written examination (provided that all candidates are under Full Centre Supervision at the Key Time).

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. The supervisor who set up the examination must be present in the examination room at the start of the examination and should also be available throughout the practical examination to deal with technical difficulties that may arise, including matters of safety, and to assist with invigilation. 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 from 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 carries out the experiments. If the supervisor has been involved in preparing any of the candidates for the examination then another invigilator must be present at all times. Centres must carry out all invigilation in accordance with the regulations in this handbook. 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 original state each time, unless directed otherwise by the confidential instructions. The time it takes to make this changeover is in addition to the time given for the examination. Invigilators must make sure that candidates do not communicate with each other during the changeover period. The supervisor and any invigilators should consult the syllabus-specific instructions and must include with the answer scripts any information required by Cambridge, for example, the report form, attached to the question paper or instructions. If the supervisor experiences any issues during the practical that disadvantage the candidates, for example, the equipment is faulty, they should record it in their Supervisors Report and talk to the exams officer about submitting an application for special consideration if they feel the candidates were disadvantaged.

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 apparatus and materials available. If there are more candidates than can be accommodated in two groups, the Centre should contact Cambridge well before the examination to discuss arrangements. 5.9.1.4 Invigilation

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A brief guide to invigilating Science practical examinations is available on CIE Direct. It is intended only as a reminder for invigilators and must be used along with the regulations in this handbook.

(c) When conducting the above checks Centres should not listen to the test material in full or remove it from the Centre. After each check Centres must return the material to the examination question paper store. 5.9.3.2 Conduct of a listening test

5.9.2

Special instructions for Cambridge 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 teacher/examiner. The teacher/examiner must allow enough time to familiarise themselves with the materials and procedures, but must not remove materials from the Centre. Centres must store materials according to the regulations in this handbook.

Ideally, a member of staff who speaks the language of the listening test should be present to deal with any technical difficulties. If this teacher prepared the candidates for the examination they must not be the sole invigilator. 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. The invigilator should warn candidates of this before the test begins. If the test is stopped because of an emergency, the invigilator should restart it at exactly the same place once they have dealt with the emergency. 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 Cambridge if equipment fails during the examination, in order to make alternative arrangements for the listening test. 5.9.3.3 Large numbers of candidates

5.9.3

Special instructions for Cambridge IGCSE, Cambridge O Level, Cambridge International AS and A Level listening tests

Cambridge 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 very powerful, it may accommodate more candidates without special permission, but Cambridge will not consider applications for special consideration on the grounds of inaudibility. Centres may use language laboratories, but they must take care to provide adequate supervision. Certain papers require candidates to have personal listening facilities, for example, CD players with headphones. 5.9.3.1 Checking recorded material for listening tests

(a) Centres must spot-check listening test material for sound quality as soon as received. (b) In order to check the acoustics (that is, 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.

If more candidates are entered for a listening test at any Centre 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, with the minimum possible delay between the sessions. The Centre must make careful arrangements to keep the groups apart until all candidates have finished the test, and must maintain security at all times. Centres must notify Cambridge in advance of any such arrangements. All candidates must be under supervision at the Key Time on the timetable. Candidates may be taking the examination or they may be under Full Centre Supervision, before or after taking the examination. If the Centre has divided the candidates into two groups it may be desirable

Cambridge Handbook 2012 (International) 76 5 Exam day

Special instructions for particular examinations

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 keep the amount of time that candidates spend under Full Centre Supervision to a minimum. In some countries, scheduling the two groups in this way may cause a morning examination to overlap with the afternoon examination session. In such cases Centres may use one or more of the following measures to make sure 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 examination so that the changeover between the two groups is earlier than 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).

5.9.4

Cambridge IGCSE syllabuses: Open book Literature components

0486 (English) Paper 1 0488 (Spanish) Paper 1 Candidates should take their set texts into the examination room for the syllabuses listed above. Invigilators must check to ensure candidates use original published books only, not photocopies from books, unless the Centre has received agreement from Cambridges Compliance Unit. Invigilators must also make sure that candidates texts do not contain notes, underlining, highlighting or any other annotations or additions made by the candidate. Invigilators must report all breaches of this regulation to Cambridge. (Note: Cambridge IGCSE English Literature Paper 4 and Paper 5 are closed book components, for which texts are not allowed in the examination room.)

5.9.5

In other countries, scheduling the two groups in this way may cause an afternoon 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 examination last arrange the time of the 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 examination) make the start of the morning examination earlier (provided that all of the candidates are under Full Centre Supervision at the Key Time).

5.9.5.1

Supervisor

A suitably experienced supervisor, who may be the candidates tutor, is responsible for administering the practical tests according to these instructions and the fuller Procedures for Conducting Practical Tests issued on CIE Direct. Please use them alongside the regulations outlined in this handbook. The supervisor is responsible for the preparation of the hardware and software for the test. 5.9.5.2 Invigilation

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

At least two invigilators must be present for the test. It is essential that a suitably experienced 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 a further (third) invigilator must be present at all times. It is up to 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 in this handbook. The supervisor and invigilators

Cambridge Handbook 2012 (International) 5 Exam day 77

Results and certificates 6 6

Exam day 5

Before the exams 4

Special instructions for Cambridge IGCSE ICT and Cambridge International AS and A Level Applied ICT practical tests

Teacher assessment 3

Entries 2

Preparation 1

Special instructions for particular examinations

must consult the syllabus-specific Procedures for Conducting Practical Tests and the Supervisor Instructions for Practical Tests. The document Brief Guide to Invigilating ICT Practical Tests is given in the Procedures for Conducting Practical Tests issued on CIE Direct before the examination. Invigilators must use the guide alongside the regulations in this handbook. 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 practical test candidates can use English or simple translation dictionaries, spell-checkers, software help facilities and manufacturer manuals on the software packages. Candidates may use software wizards provided by the original software supplier. Supervisors/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 beyond that given to the group as a whole and must submit their report to Cambridge with the candidates work. Candidates must not communicate with each other in any way (including the use of email, via the internet or intranet) and Centres must make sure candidates files are secure. Centres are strongly advised to consider setting up passwords to control login procedures and to make sure that only authorised access to files is possible. Candidates must not have access to portable storage media for example, memory sticks. Invigilators must be vigilant throughout the test. 5.9.5.3 Timetabling

Wherever possible, candidates from the Centre should sit their assessment at the same time. If more than one session is needed to accommodate all candidates, these sessions should follow on from each other. However, Centres do not need to keep candidates under supervision until all candidates have taken the test. When arranging examination dates, Centres should consider the time needed to set up the system and should allow contingency planning (for example, to reschedule examination times due to possible hardware failure) wherever possible. 5.9.5.4 Preparation for practical tests

Before candidates take a practical test, the supervisor must work through a past/specimen paper, using the hardware and software candidates will be using. Centres must make sure that the hardware and software candidates will be using is in full working order and will allow them to meet all the performance criteria as specified in the syllabus. Cambridge will not take into consideration errors resulting from faulty software or hardware when marking candidates work. Data files will be available to Centres one day before the examination window so they can be downloaded. Centres must make sure that a spare computer/ printer is available in case of equipment failure. If failure occurs, the invigilator should allow the candidate to move to another machine if necessary, making sure that the candidate does not have access to other candidates work (for example, by using secure areas on all machines or changing the default settings). 5.9.5.5 Security issues

The Cambridge IGCSE and Cambridge International AS and A Level timetable will specify periods within which candidates must take the two practical tests for each syllabus. Within this period, Centres may conduct the practical tests at any convenient time or times. Candidates must finish each practical test in a single session.

Important information
Any system errors or issues must be reported on the Supervisors Report Form (SRF).

The practical tests are a test of skills, not of knowledge or understanding. The performance criteria (that is, the skills 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 candidates who have already taken the tests: they already know what skills they need to demonstrate. The security issues associated with the practical tests are therefore different from those for conventional written papers.

Cambridge Handbook 2012 (International) 78 5 Exam day

Special instructions for particular examinations

There are important security issues, for example, candidates must not gain enough 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 keep secure all work stored on a network or hard disk. Centres must make sure that: candidates do not have access to test material, except during their test at the end of each session the invigilator collects all assessment material (including candidate-dated practical test papers and candidates completed work) they destroy all draft copies and rough work which is not submitted spare copies of the test paper are kept under secure conditions until the specified date.

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 should check that candidates do not have access to other candidates work (for example, by using secure areas on all machines or changing default settings). If equipment can be restored, the invigilator may give extra time to the candidates to make up for time lost, as long as the Centre can guarantee the integrity of the test. If equipment failure makes it impossible to continue the test, (for example, power is lost indefinitely or all the candidates work has been lost or corrupted), all the candidates work must be destroyed and the Centre should allow the candidate a second attempt at the test on a different day. This must be a last resort. If there is an equipment failure, the supervisor must submit a detailed report to Cambridge with the candidates work. The report must state the nature of the problem, the candidates affected, and the actions taken. 5.9.5.8 Printing

5.9.5.6

Submission of candidates work

The submission to Cambridge should include: for each candidate, the candidates Assessment Record Folder (ARF), containing a copy of the candidates work and dated test paper; the Supervisor Report Folder (SRF), including details of any problems encountered, the candidates affected and the actions taken as well as details of the software that candidates used to take the test. Equipment failure

5.9.5.7

If there is a system crash, software failure, power cut or damage to equipment during the test, the Centre must take action to guarantee the integrity of the test. If a candidate appears to be having problems with faulty equipment, the invigilator must tell the supervisor, who must decide if the fault lies with

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

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Results and certificates 6 6

Candidates must send all work to the printer during the duration of the test. Only if a printer breaks down may the Centre use its discretion to go beyond the time specified for the test. The supervisor must record this to go beyond their report. Printouts may be collated after the test time specified, under supervised conditions.

Exam day 5

Before the exams 4

Candidates must not keep any printouts produced during the test, or any electronic files that form part of the test or have been produced during the test. Candidates must date their test paper before submitting it with the rest of their work.

Centres must make sure that there is enough toner and paper to print out all candidates work. Candidates work will take the form of printouts. Centres must not submit work in other forms (for example, CD-ROM). Each printout must include the candidates name, number and Centre number (this information must not be hand written). Candidates must enter this information before their work is printed. Cambridge will not mark printouts with either hand-written details or no candidate details. If candidates produce extra rough printouts, these must be neatly crossed through to show that they are not the copy to be marked.

Teacher assessment 3

Entries 2

Preparation 1

Special instructions for particular examinations

5.9.5.9

Content of question papers

Two practical papers (A and B) cover the assessment objectives set out in the syllabus. The paper content will not be the same each time. The syllabus aims to give Centres the flexibility to cope with a variety of resources and ever-changing technology. The practical sections of a course can be accomplished using any software packages that allow candidates to demonstrate all skills listed in the relevant sections of the syllabus.

5.9.6

Special instructions for Cambridge IGCSE, Cambridge International AS and A Level Art and Design

Centres should refer to A Guide to Administering Art and Design Practical Examinations, within the relevant Art and Design syllabus.

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6 Results and certificates


6.1 Provisional examination results
Centres are able to view and download their results from the CIE Direct website (https://direct.cie.org.uk) on the date given in the >Cambridge Administrative Guide. Centres can release results to candidates on the date given in the >Cambridge Administrative Guide. Cambridge will send printed statements of results to Centres on dates published in the >Cambridge Administrative Guide. Cambridge will not email results to Centres or any other parties. It is the responsibility of the Centre to distribute statements of results to all candidates. The name of the Centre will not appear on either the statement of results or the certificates for private candidates. Cambridge does not usually provide candidates with their results directly. However, Cambridge reserves the right to inform candidates of their results in extreme circumstances, upon proof of identity. The statement of results is not a certificate, Cambridge reserves the right to amend the information given on statements of results, which are then confirmed by the candidates certificate. The statement of results is and remains the property of Cambridge and is issued on the following conditions: any alteration to or defacement of a statement of results renders it invalid Centres must return a statement of results to Cambridge if asked to do so.
Preparation 1 Results and certificates 6 6 Exam day 5 Before the exams 4 Teacher assessment 3 Entries 2

In this section
81 81 82 83 6.1 Provisional examination results 6.2 Examination grades 6.3 Certificates 6.4 Enquiries about results services

Centres must notify Cambridge immediately of any errors in candidates names on statements of results so that they can be corrected before certificates are issued. A fee is charged for any amendment requested after the issue of certificates. Cambridge will issue a certifying statement of provisional results on the same day results are published, if the Centre the candidate is entered through completes Results and Certificates Form 7. (The authorisation must be on Centre headed paper and signed by the Head of Centre.) Authorisation from the Centre is not required if the statement is to be directly provided to a school or university. Cambridge will despatch these statements on the date provisional results are published. Authorisations from Centres are no longer required after Cambridge has published the provisional results.

Administrative forms
Forms available from the Exams Officers section of the Cambridge website www.cie.org.uk/examsofficers Certifying Statement Application: Results and Certificates Form 7

6.2

Examination grades

For information about the different grades for Cambridge qualifications and the way they are shown on statements of results see the >Cambridge Administrative Guide.

Cambridge Handbook 2012 (International) 6 Results and certificates 81

Certificates

6.3

Certificates

6.3.2

Damaged certificates

A Cambridge certificate will record a candidates final results. A certificate is and remains the property of Cambridge and is issued on the following conditions: any alteration to or defacement of a certificate makes it invalid Centres must return a certificate to Cambridge if asked to do so.

At its absolute discretion Cambridge reserves the right to issue replacement certificates to candidates, based 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 Cambridge will issue a certifying statement to candidates. The candidate must return the damaged certificate to Cambridge before it can provide any replacement certificate. A fee is charged for a replacement certificate.

Centres must check certificates carefully on receipt. It is the responsibility of the Centre to distribute certificates to candidates as soon as possible. Where certificates are not handed to candidates personally, Centres must obtain acknowledgement of receipt. Centres must keep certificates in a safe place until they are distributed to candidates. The Centre must keep unclaimed certificates under secure conditions for a minimum of 12 months from the date of issue. After that time, the Centre may return unclaimed certificates to Cambridge, enclosing a list of those certificates they are returning. The Centre must keep a copy of this list. Under no circumstances must Centres destroy unclaimed certificates.

6.3.3

Name changes

Cambridge issues certificates in the name of the candidate at the time the award is made. Cambridge will not provide replacement certificates to accommodate a later change of name.

6.3.4

Incorrect candidate and/or Centre details

6.3.1

Lost certificates and certifying statements

A candidate who has lost a Cambridge certificate may apply for a certifying statement of results, using Results and Certificates Form 7. Centres may apply to Cambridge for a certifying statement of results at any time. A certifying statement is an official document issued by Cambridge which will reflect the certificate rather than the statement of results. The certifying statement is fully endorsed by the Vice Chancellor of the University of Cambridge. Cambridge can also issue a certifying statement to an educational institution or employer as proof of the applicants results. Cambridge charges a fee for issuing certifying statements.

Centres must check Centre and candidate details, including the spelling of names and dates of birth, when Cambridge issues statements of results. A Centre must report to Cambridge immediately any inaccuracies before the issue of certificates. Cambridge charges 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 Cambridge will issue a replacement.

6.3.5

Combining grades from examination series on single certificates

Cambridge cannot combine grades obtained in different examination series onto one certificate. For example, it cannot record on a single certificate

Administrative forms
Forms available from the Exams Officers section of the Cambridge website www.cie.org.uk/examsofficers Certifying Statement Application: Results and Certificates Form 7

Cambridge Handbook 2012 (International) 82 6 Results and certificates

Enquiries about results services

grades obtained in both a June series and a November series. Cambridge issues separate certificates for each examination series. Cambridge will not delete selected grades from a certificate issued for an examination series.

6.4

Enquiries about results services

6.3.6

Concerns about results

Cambridge will acknowledge any enquiry a Centre submits expressing general concern with its results in a particular examination. However, it will not carry out an investigation. If a Centre requires such an investigation it must use one of the results enquiry services. See the >Cambridge Administrative Guide for information on our results enquiries services.

Cambridge carries out extensive quality checks before issuing results. However, an enquiry about results service is available to Centres in case they feel that investigation into the result of one or more candidates is appropriate.

6.4.1

Cambridge will provide, without charge, if asked by the Head of Centre, an explanation of any report of No Result (Grade X) or Pending (Grade Q). Cambridge will ask the Centre to submit any documentary evidence to suggest that Cambridges records are inaccurate, for example, an attendance register or coursework mark. Cambridge 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 Cambridge had no mark a confirmation of a previous notification to the Centre of the reason why Cambridge cannot award a result, for example, that Cambridge did not receive documents, coursework marks or information to confirm that the candidate did or did not sit a particular examination.

6.3.7

Amendments to results and certificates

6.3.8

University entrance

Universities and other institutions issue details of the conditions that apply to Cambridge examinations for university entrance. Centres must address admissions enquiries to the institution concerned and not to Cambridge.

6.4.2

Submission of enquiries

If a Centre or institution has any concerns about the authenticity of a certificate, Cambridge should be contacted immediately. Cambridge can give advice about initial authentication of the certificate at no cost. For more information see the >Cambridge Administrative Guide.

Administrative forms
Forms available from the Exams Officers section of the Cambridge website www.cie.org.uk/examsofficers Results Verification Application: Results and Certificates Form 8

Cambridge Handbook 2012 (International) 6 Results and certificates 83

Results and certificates 6 6

A candidate or institution requiring verification of results issued by Cambridge may apply by completing Results and Certificates Form 8. Candidates or Centres can apply to Cambridge for verification of results at any time. Cambridge charges a fee for this service.

Exam day 5

6.3.9

Verification of results

Apart from an explanation of a Grade X or a Grade Q, Cambridge provides a number of other result enquiry services. Please see the >Cambridge Administrative Guide for more information.

Before the exams 4

Cambridge carries out ongoing internal quality assurance procedures and also makes available facilities for enquiries about results and appeals by a Centre. As a result of appeals Cambridge may need to issue amended statements of results or certificates. Although Cambridge 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.

Teacher assessment 3

Entries 2

Explanation of No Result or Pending

Preparation 1

Enquiries about results services

(a) For enquiries about results: (i) Centres must submit such a request on Results and Certificates Form 1, which Cambridge will normally despatch with the statement of results. (ii) the Head of Centre responsible for the candidates entry must submit the enquiry. (iii) the deadline given in the >Cambridge Administrative Guide is the latest date for submission. Centres must submit enquiries as soon as possible after Cambridge has issued the results. (b) Cambridge will not consider: (i) any telephone requests for enquiries about results, except for No Result or Pending (ii) any requests for enquiries about results involving any syllabus component(s) for which malpractice has been confirmed (iii) any requests for enquiries about results from individual candidates or their parents/ guardians. (c) It is in their best interests that Centres submit at the same time all enquiries concerning a particular syllabus. (d) Cambridge will invoice the Centre at the end of the examination series for all candidates where they have submitted a result enquiry. In cases where a grade change has resulted from the enquiry, Cambridge will not charge an enquiry fee.

6.4.3

Enquiry services

Please refer to the >Cambridge Administrative Guide for the services that are available. Cambridge will provide the services described in the >Cambridge Administrative Guide for Cambridge examinations in response to enquiries about examination results.

6.4.4

Multiple enquiries

Cambridge will allow only one enquiry about results for each candidates result in the externally-assessed components of a syllabus. Centres may also ask for 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 other syllabuses. When making an enquiry by component Centres must submit all enquiries for the same candidate/ syllabus together. Cambridge cannot accept further component enquiries for the same candidate/ syllabus at a later date.

6.4.5

Time taken to deal with enquiries about examination results

Cambridge will deal with enquiries in the order in which they are received. Cambridge cannot guarantee a date by which it will complete the work but it will make every effort to report the outcome of the review of the marking or remoderation as quickly as possible. Wherever possible, Cambridge will report within 30 days of enquiry.

Important information
The process of destroying candidate scripts begins in early November for the June series and in early May for the November series. If Cambridge later receives an enquiry it will not be possible to process it as the scripts will have been destroyed.

Administrative forms
Forms available from the Exams Officers section of the Cambridge website www.cie.org.uk/examsofficers Enquiries about Exam Results (International Centres: Results and Certificates Form 1

Cambridge Handbook 2012 (International) 84 6 Results and certificates

Enquiries about results services

Once Cambridge processes the application it will send an acknowledgement letter to the Centre confirming the enquiry requested. If the Centre does not receive an acknowledgement it could mean that the application has not arrived at Cambridge. Therefore, it is essential that the Centre contacts Cambridge if it does not receive an acknowledgement within two weeks.

(iii) notify UCAS (the UK organisation through which applications are processed for entry to higher education), 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 (v) issue a revised certificate (on return of the original certificate if Cambridge has already issued it) (vi) waive all or part of the fee.

6.4.6

6.4.7

Candidate consent

Centres do not need candidate consent for the submission of enquiries about examination results.

(a) If, having received the result of any enquiry, a Head of Centre wants to appeal against that outcome, they may submit an appeal to the Cambridge Appeals Committee. Centres must follow the appeals procedures set out in the >Cambridge Administrative Guide. (b) It is the responsibility of the Head of Centre to forward the outcome of an appeal to candidates and parents/carers as soon as it is received. The Head of Centre must also notify the candidates and parents/carers that this outcome is regarded as final.

(a) If an enquiry leads to a change in the candidates mark, the candidates syllabus grade will either remain the same or go up. (b) Where an enquiry does not lead to a change in a candidates syllabus grade Cambridge will not re-issue a statement of results or certificate based upon a change to a candidates component grade. (c) Where an enquiry leads to a reduction in a candidates mark and that mark is carried forward to a subsequent series, it will be the reduced mark that Cambridge uses to calculate the candidates grade in that series. (d) Where an enquiry leads to a change to a candidates overall grade in a syllabus, Cambridge will: (i) notify the Head of Centre in writing immediately (ii) issue a revised statement of results

Cambridge Handbook 2012 (International) 6 Results and certificates 85

Results and certificates 6 6

Exam day 5

Before the exams 4

6.4.8

Outcome of results services

Teacher assessment 3

Cambridge charges for its post-results services. The charge for each service is stated on the application form. Cambridge will invoice the Centre for the service provided. Cambridge will waive the charge if a grade is changed as a result of the enquiry. In the case of services 5, 4 and 8 Cambridge will waive the whole fee or a proportion, as appropriate, if a grade change for one or more candidates has resulted from the enquiry.

6.4.9

Appeals against the outcome of enquiries about examination results

Entries 2

Charging for post-results services

Preparation 1

Index

A
Access arrangements Centre-delegated definition of principles governing Accreditation of coursework assessors Additional Materials List Answer scripts collecting despatching packing Appeals against the outcome of applications for access arrangements 1.2.24 against the outcome of applications for special consideration 5.7 .11 against decisions of the Cambridge Malpractice Committee 5.8.14 against the outcome of enquiries about examination results Applications for access arrangements special consideration timetable deviations Assessed material, ownership of At the beginning of the examination At the end of the examination Attendance registers Authenticating coursework AZ of useful terms 1.2 5.7 1.1 N 5.1 5.4 5.1.3 3.1.4 pages 56 6.4.9 5.4.2 5.5 5.5.2 1.2 1.2.6 1.2.1 1.2.2 3.1.1 5.1.5 and 5.1.6

Candidates communicating about disqualification of eligibility large numbers in practical examinations malpractice by private supervision of transferred with hearing impairment with contagious diseases with learning disabilities with physical disabilities with visual impairment 2.1.4 5.8.2 2.1.1 5.9.1.3 and 5.9.3.3 5.8.3 2.1.2 5.2.1 2.1.3 1.2.5.3 4.3.6 1.2.5.4 1.2.5.1 1.2.5.2

Carrying forward of coursework marks 2.5 and 3.1.16 Centre responsibilities Certificates damaged incorrect candidate/Centre details lost Certifying statements Change of contact details Checking recorded material Clock Collection of answer scripts Collection of question papers Colour blindness Communicating about candidates Communication with Cambridge Computers, word processors and electronic typewriters, regulations governing the use of A 6.3 6.3.2 6.3.4 6.3.1 6.3.1 A4 5.9.3.1 4.3.4 5.4.2 5.4.3 1.2.22 2.1.4 H

B
Bar-coded labels 5.5.1

1.2.17 5.9.3.2 4 and 5 K and M

Conduct of listening test Conduct of examinations Copyright

C
Calculators, use of Cambridge identity Cambridge software and online services Candidate numbering Candidate numbers 5.2.3 P J 2.3.1 5.1.2

Correcting fluid/correcting pens, use of 5.1.7 (ii)

Cambridge Handbook 2012 (International) 86 Index

Index
Coursework authenticating coursework dealing with unsatisfactory practice definition of failure to complete coursework incomplete or extra coursework lost or damaged malpractice in marking of presentation of retaining evidence return of re-use of shortfall in submitting for more than one syllabus supervising coursework Coursework marks carrying forward Criteria for selecting samples of coursework 3 3.1.4 3.1.14 3.1 3.1.9 3.1.8 5.7 .9 3.1.18 3.1.7 3.1.6 3.2.18 3.1.15 3.1.17 5.7 .8 3.1.2 3.1.5 3.1.16 3.1.13 Examination at the beginning of the examination at the end of the examination during the examination preparing the exam room seating arrangements starting the examination Examination grades Examination material receipt of storing Examination results enquiries about Examination room Examination venue Extra coursework 5.1 5.4 5.2 4.3 4.3.6 5.1.7 6.2 4.1 4.1.1 4.2 6 6.4 4.3 4.3.1 3.1.8

F
Failure to complete coursework Final entries Finishing the examination Full Centre Supervision definition 3.1.9 2.3 5.4.1 page 5

D
Damaged certificates Damaged coursework Despatch of answer scripts Dictionaries, use of Display material Disqualification of candidates 6.3.2 5.7.9 5.5 5.2.5 4.3.3 5.8.2

H
Highlighters, use of 5.1.7 (iii)

E
Eligibility for special consideration Emergencies Enquiries about examination results Entries confirming entries closing dates eligibility estimating entries fees late entries making final entries 5.7 5.6.5 6.4 2 2.3.2 2.3 (d) 2.1.1 2.2 2.4 2.4 2.3

I
ICT Practical tests equipment failure invigilation timetabling Identifying candidates Incomplete coursework 5.9.5 5.9.5.7 5.9.5.2 5.9.5.3 5.1.1 3.1.8

Information to display in the examination room 4.3.5 Internally-assessed coursework, submission of marks for 3.1.12

Internally-assessed oral examinations, submission of marks for 3.2.13

Cambridge Handbook 2012 (International) Index 87

Index
Inspections Invigilation arrangements for ICT practical tests 4.4 5.9.5.2 B Moderation submission of sample for moderation 3.1.13

of practical examinations in Science syllabuses 5.9.1.4 Irregular conduct 5.6.4

N
Name changes No result, explanation of Notice to candidates 6.3.3 6.4.1 4.3.5

K
Key Time, definition page 6 See also 4.4.1

O
Online services Open books literature components J 5.9.4 Oral examinations, submission of marks for internally-assessed examinations 3.2.13 Outline proposal form Overnight supervision of candidates 3.1.3 1.1.5 (c)

L
Large numbers of candidates in practical examinations 5.9.1.3 and 5.9.3.3 Late arrival of candidates Leaving the examination room Listening tests conduct of checking CDs special instructions Lost certificates Lost coursework 5.6.1 5.3 5.9.3 5.9.3.2 5.9.3.1 5.9.2 and 5.9.3 6.3.1 5.7.9

P
Packing of answer scripts Pens Pending result, explanation of Perishable specimens Physical disabilities, guidance on Practical assistants, regulations governing the use of Practical examinations 5.5.2 5.1.6 6.4.1 5.9.1.2 1.2.5.1 1.2.20 5.2.2 5.9.1 5.9.1.4 5.9.1.3 5.9.1.2 4 4.3 3.1.6 2.1.2 1.2.9 6.1

M
Malpractice and maladministration by candidates by Centre staff cases identified by the Centre cases identified by Cambridge Cambridge procedures in coursework in Centre-based assessments in non-coursework speaking tests Marking coursework 5.8 5.8.3 5.8.8 5.8.5 5.8.6 5.8.9 3.1.18 5.8.7 3.2.6 3.1.7

Practical examinations in science syllabuses invigilation of large numbers of candidates materials to be used in Preparation for the examination Preparing the exam room Presentation of coursework Private candidates Prompters, regulations governing the use of Provisional examination results

Materials for practical examinations in science syllabuses 5.1.6.1 Mathematical tables, use of 5.2.4

Cambridge Handbook 2012 (International) 88 Index

Index

Q
Question papers 24-hour security rule collection of ownership of receipt of storing 5.4.3 5.4.3 L 4.1.1 4.2

Scribe/writer, regulations governing the use of Scripts collecting despatching Seating arrangements for the examination Seating plan Security, 24-hour rule Security of question papers and examination materials Shortfall in coursework Software use of Cambridge software Speaking tests, coursework Speaking tests, non-coursework absent candidates appointment of examiner

1.2.19 5.4.2 5.5 4.3.6 5.1.4 5.4.3 4.2 5.7.8 J 5.9.2 3.2 3.2.9 3.2.2

R
Readers, regulations governing the use of 1.2.18 Receipt of question papers and examination material Refunding fees Responsibilities of Associate Centre of the Centre of Cambridge Associate Result enquiries appeals against the outcome of applications for outcome of services available Results provisional examination results verification of viewing on secure website Retaining coursework evidence Retaking examinations Return of artwork Return of coursework Re-use of coursework Rough work during examinations 6.1 6.3.9 6.1 3.2.18 2.5 N2 and N3 3.1.15 3.1.17 5.1.7 G A E 6 6.4.9 6.4.2 6.4.8 6.4.3 4.1.1 2.4.2

deadlines for submission of marks and samples 3.2.13 dealing with unsatisfactory practice 3.2.19 definition of a non-coursework speaking test estimated entries failure to complete 3.2.1 3.2.4 3.2.10

instructions for the submission of speaking test materials 3.2.16 malpractice marking recording of sample for moderation 3.2.14 requests for special consideration 3.2.11 retaining non-coursework speaking test evidence 3.2.18 return of speaking tests selection of samples special instructions for Cambridge IGCSE speaking tests standardising marking within Centres timetabling training and accreditation of teacher/examiners 3.2.20 3.2.15 3.2.5 3.2.12 3.2.7 3.2.3 3.2.6 3.2.8

Results and certificates, amendments to 6.3.7

S
Science accommodation and equipment 5.9.1 Science syllabuses, special instructions for practical examinations Science syllabuses, use of calculators 5.9.1 5.1.6.1

Cambridge Handbook 2012 (International) Index 89

Index
Special consideration definition of how to apply for principles governing Specimens for science syllabuses Staged assessment Standardising marking within Centres Starting the examination Statements of entry Statements of results Stationery unused and materials for science papers Submission of applications for timetable deviations coursework, sample instructions for coursework, sample for moderation enquiries about examination results 1.1.1 3.1.13 3.1.13 6.4 5.7 5.7 .1 5.7 .4 5.7 .2 5.9.1.2 2.5.1 3.1.11 5.1.7 2.3.2 6.1 5.1.6 5.4.5 5.1.6.1 supervision arrangements for unacceptable reasons for Transcript, regulations governing the production of Transferred candidates Twenty-four hour security rule 1.1.5 1.1.3 1.2.8 2.1.3 5.4.3

U
Unauthorised materials in an examination University entrance 5.1.5 6.3.8

V
Verification of results Visual impairment, guidance on 6.3.9 1.2.5.2

marks for internally-assessed coursework 3.1.12 marks and samples for non-coursework speaking tests 3.2.13 Submitting coursework for more than one syllabus Supervision arrangements for a timetable deviation Supervising coursework Supervision of candidates during the examination Supervision of candidates overnight for timetable deviations 3.1.2 1.1.5 3.1.5 5.2.1 1.1.5 (c)

T
Teachers accreditation of coursework assessors Telephone communication Timetable deviations introduction reasons which may be considered submission of application for 3.1.1 I 1.1 1.1 1.1.2 1.1.1

Cambridge Handbook 2012 (International) 90 Index

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