Taking exams can be a pressured and stressful time, with a lot riding on your results. However, for exams to be fair for all and for results to be trusted, there are rules that apply to you and everyone taking exams and assessments. This doesn’t just mean cheating during the exam – there are also rules that apply before you take an exam or assessment, and afterwards. If you break those rules, this is known by exam boards as ‘malpractice’ and we have to investigate.
When you take your STEP test, you will be able to see the Notice to Candidates in the exam room which reminds you of what you can and can’t do during the test. Please read this document thoroughly to make sure you understand the rules on the exam day.
If you break the rules, we will need to investigate this as suspected malpractice which may lead to us withholding your result. To avoid this happening, please note the reminders below.
Bring your ID with you to the test
You must make sure that you bring a form of photographic identification with you to the test. This is so that invigilators can make sure that the right person is sitting the test. If you do not have your ID with you, invigilators have to report this to us and your result may not be released.
Check your pockets before entering the exam room
You are not allowed to bring into the test room with you any electronic items such as mobile phones, smart watches, cameras etc. You are only allowed at your desk the items needed to complete the test, so make sure that your pockets are empty, and you do not have any notes or other materials with you. Centre staff will tell you where to put any personal belongings before you start the test.
Listen to the invigilator and follow their instructions
Invigilators are there to make sure that the exam runs smoothly and according to our regulations. Make sure to listen to their instructions so that the test is conducted fairly for everyone.
Complete your work independently
You must complete the test on your own and cannot communicate with anyone else during the test. Answer scripts are monitored for malpractice during marking, and we may investigate if an examiner notices similarities between responses.
Do not share the contents of the exam online on the test day
It is important that you do not share any information about the STEP test online until after the day of the test. We monitor internet forums for any discussion of the test.
If you notice anything during the test that you think may be malpractice, you should notify an invigilator so that they can address it. Centres must tell us about suspected malpractice, so you can pass on any concerns you have to them or email us directly at GQCompliance@ocr.org.uk.