Asset Languages

New EDI file format from 1 September 2011

From 1 September 2011, a new version of the JCQ EDI Formats (Version 14) has been introduced. Before you import basedata for 2011/12, please ensure that you install the latest version of the management information system you use to administer examinations.

We have been advised that, following Capita's recent software upgrade, some centres using SIMS may find that the basedata fails to import correctly. If you do experience any issues, please contact Capita directly for support.

Schedule for the publication of 2011/2012 basedata files

SeriesSeries codePublication date
November 2011bz113 October 2011
March 20123z123 January 2012
May 20125z121 February 2012
June 20126z121 March 2012

May 2012 series 5z - z5z12_01 (format version 14)

Each assessment code (apart from speaking) has a number of different options (A-L). This is because you can choose to conduct Asset Languages Listening, Reading and Writing tests at any point within a testing window.

The date and time when an assessment is carried out is called a test opportunity and each letter represents a different test opportunity.

If different groups of candidates are to sit the same assessment at different points during the testing window, each group should be allocated to a different test opportunity. OCR will send a different set of question papers for each test opportunity.

Should you require any further information about making entries, please see the Admin Guide (PDF, 1 MB).

March 2012 series 3z - z3z12_01 (format version 14)

November 2011 series bz - zbz11_01 (format version 14)

Basedata instructions

Download each set of files, extract all of the constituent files to a suitable directory and then use the import or update feature in your examinations software to add the new basedata.

Which file should I choose?

Choose the .exe self-extracting zip file if you use Windows 95 or later. Double-clicking on the downloaded file will automatically extract the relevant files.

Choose the .zip file if you use Windows 3.1 and then use a zip program such as WinZip or PKZip to extract the files.

Please note: These executable and self-extracting .zip files may contain viruses that could harm your computer. OCR has checked for viruses using commercial virus-checking software but by downloading and opening these files you agree that OCR shall not be liable for any damage or loss caused in the event that the file contains a virus or other harmful component.

OCR cannot answer any questions on the use of SIMS or any other exams software packages.

OCR does not currently support any problems associated with EDI files and Centres should contact their selected carrier.