Level 1 and Level 2

For candidates sitting Level 1 and Level 2 qualifications, there are some access arrangements that you can simply apply without referring to us. For others you will need to contact us in advance.

For the following arrangements, you don’t need to contact us, and you don’t need to record details or provide evidence of need: 

• Amplification equipment 
• Bilingual dictionary 
• Braille transcript 
• Braillers 
• Closed circuit television (CCTV) 
• Colour naming by the invigilator for candidates who are colour blind 
• Coloured overlays 
• Communication professional (for candidates using sign language)
• Examination on coloured/enlarged paper 
• Live speaker for pre-recorded examination components
• Low vision aid/magnifier 
• Optical character reader (OCR) scanners 
• Prompter 
• Read aloud 
• Reading Pen/Exam Pen
  
• Separate invigilation within the centre 
• Supervised rest breaks 
• Word processor

For the following arrangements, you don’t need to contact us, but you need to record details and provide evidence of need:

• Bilingual dictionary with 10% extra time (solely for the use of the dictionary)
• 25% extra time

You must complete an OCR centre permitted arrangements form detailing the names and numbers of candidates granted these arrangements. You need to keep this form on file for inspection by us. You must make sure you provide appropriate evidence of need as described in the JCQ Access Arrangements and Reasonable Adjustments (Section 5.2, page 22 and Section 5.18.7, page 73).

For all other access arrangements, as listed below, you must apply to us in advance:

• Computer reader/reader 
• Exemptions 
• Extra time over 25% 
• Practical assistant in practical assessments 
• Practical assistant in written papers 
• Scribe/speech recognition technology

Apply as soon as possible, but at the latest six weeks before the date of the series in which the examination is to be taken. To apply, email the OCR Access Arrangements Application Form to srteam@ocr.org.uk.

Although the JCQ document no longer contains information relating to access arrangements for Functional Skills, all general information relating to modified papers (as a reasonable adjustment) is still valid. Please see Chapter 6 of the JCQ Access Arrangements and Reasonable Adjustments. The only exception for Functional Skills is the process of ordering modified papers.

Modified papers are available to order in the following formats:

• A4 modified 18 point bold
• A3 modified 24 point bold 
• A4 modified 24 point bold
• A3 modified 36 point bold
• Braille papers (SEB and UEB) and tactile diagrams with Braille labels 
• Non-interactive electronic (PDF) question paper
• Tactile diagrams with print labels 

We do not provide any papers on coloured paper. You must provide these yourself. You no longer have to apply for an access arrangement to photocopy papers onto coloured paper. We recommend you request a PDF of the question paper so you can print directly from the electronic file. This improves print quality and reduces the risk of missing pages through photocopying.

We try to provide modified papers as quickly as possible, however, you should let us know as soon as possible if any candidates require them. You must order A4 24 point papers, A3 36 point papers and all braille papers at least six weeks before the candidate takes the assessment.

Modified papers ordered as modified enlarged print and braille are sent out to centres as hard copies.

Functional Skills assessments ordered as non-interactive electronic question papers are uploaded to the emergency question paper area of Interchange on the day of the examination. 

If you would like a modified paper in any format other than those listed above, we may be able to help you but you must contact us to discuss your requirements well before the candidate takes the examination. Contact the special requirements team on 01223 552505 or email modified.papers@ocr.org.uk.

Candidates with any disabilities that have a substantial and long term adverse effect may require other adjustments than those listed here. Please contact the special requirements team at srteam@ocr.org.uk to discuss a candidate’s particular needs.