This blog was originally published in 2019 and has been updated to include current guidance.

Steven Walker, Maths Subject Advisor

In this blog we take a look at some of the arrangements that centres may wish to consider, specifically regarding the use of technology for external examinations in mathematics and other numerically rich subjects.

As we start a new academic year, centres often worry about how best to support their students with specific access issues. While generic information about eligibility for access arrangements can be found in the JCQ Access Arrangements and Reasonable Adjustments 2025-2026 (AARA), this blog discusses how these rules specifically apply to mathematics.

What are reasonable adjustments?

Reasonable adjustments and access arrangements allow learners with special educational needs, disabilities or temporary injuries to access the assessment and show what they know and can do, without changing the demands of the assessment. Applications should be made before the examination series.

What specialist software could be used for mathematics papers under the special access arrangements?

The JCQ Instructions for Conducting Examinations 2025-2026 (ICE) provides the underpinning guidance for assessment. Word processing technology can support candidates, either to type responses themselves, or to provide guidance to a scribe. Section 14.25 covers general issues around using a word processor. A reasonable interpretation of some of these points with regards to mathematics examinations would be:

1. Must be used as a typewriter, not as a database, although standard formatting software is acceptable.

Standard formatting software covers the use of add-in tools such as Mathtype or Equation Editor within Word to ensure clear presentation of mathematical arguments.

2. Must have been cleared of any previously stored data, as must any portable storage medium used. An unauthorised memory stick must not be used by a candidate. Where required, the centre must provide a memory stick to the candidate, cleared of any previously stored data.

Centres should be aware that most formatting software will have the ability to store equations on its toolbar, and generally pre-populated with some of the standard formulae that students are expected to recall. Any such stored data must be cleared before the examination.

3. Must not be connected to an intranet or any other means of communication.

Any software must be run from a locally installed version, rather than accessed through a network or from the internet.

4. Must not give the candidate access to other applications such as a calculator (where prohibited in the examination), spreadsheets etc.

J560 GCSE (9-1) Mathematics Foundation paper 2 and Higher paper 5 are non-calculator. All other assessment papers permit calculators (with no distinction between scientific or graphical calculators, see section 10 of ICE).

For non-calculator papers, any computer technology must be set up so that inbuilt calculators cannot be accessed.

Inbuilt desktop calculators may be limited to the useful functionality. The two main calculator manufacturers, Casio and Texas Instruments, provide computer emulators that mirror the hand held models that the majority of candidates have for classroom and examination use. These may be an appropriate approach to issues of small calculator screens, or concerns that a candidate may have with the accurate data entry by a scribe. The Casio classpad emulators are online apps, but once loaded the internet can be cut off and the emulator will continue to work. For technical support contact Casio.

Other graph-drawing software (such as Autograph, Omnigraph, Geogebra, Desmos) is permissible where a graphical calculator would be normally used, but its use must be strictly limited to imitating functionality available on a calculator permitted under JCQ regulations (see section 10 of ICE). The invigilator will need to be familiar with the proposed software and permitted calculator functionality. Contact the platform provider directly for technical support (for Desmos, email assessments@desmos.com).

5. Must not be used on the candidate’s behalf by a third party unless the candidate has permission to use a scribe.

The ARAA does permit the candidate to have a scribe and/or a practical assistant. In maths this may be to perform drawing activities, but could also refer to entering data into a calculator. The use of a word processor and computer displayed calculator (on two screens if appropriate) would allow a candidate to see clearly all the work done by a scribe and/or practical assistant. Where a scribe is used to hand write the responses then an electronic visualiser may help candidates see the written responses clearly.

Stay connected

You can find general information on access arrangements on the Cambridge OCR website. 

If you have any specific mathematics related queries contact the maths team at maths@ocr.org.uk or call us on 01223 553998. 

You can also sign up for email updates to receive information about resources and support, or follow us on X @OCR_Maths.

If you are considering teaching any of our qualifications, use our online form to let us know, so that we can help you with more information.

About the author

Steven originally studied engineering before completing a PGCE in secondary mathematics. He has taught secondary maths in England and overseas. Steven joined Cambridge OCR in 2014 and worked on the redevelopment of FSMQ, entry level certificate and both A Level Mathematics/Further Mathematics qualification suites. Away from the office he enjoys cooking and to travel.