Access Arrangements for Cambridge International Exams

Cambridge International strives to ensure that all candidates have the opportunity to demonstrate their abilities in a fair and equitable manner. Access arrangements are special adjustments made to exams to support candidates with specific needs, such as learning difficulties, disabilities, medical conditions, or temporary injuries. These provisions do not alter the standards of the exam but enable candidates to perform to the best of their abilities.

Access arrangements are tailored to meet individual needs and may include a variety of adjustments. For instance, candidates might be granted extra time to complete their exam, ensuring they have sufficient opportunity to process and answer the questions. Separate invigilation can be arranged for those who require a quieter environment to minimise distractions. Candidates with specific needs may also use assistive technologies, such as word processors or specialised software, during their exams. For those who require additional support, a reader or scribe may assist in reading questions aloud or recording answers. Modifications to exam papers, such as larger text, braille, or coloured overlays, can also be provided to cater to visual or processing requirements. Rest breaks may be scheduled for candidates who need them to manage fatigue or medical conditions.

To be eligible for these arrangements, candidates must provide recent and relevant evidence, such as medical reports or assessments dated within four years of the exam and verified by a suitable professional, for example, a medical professional, an educational psychologist, a clinical psychologist, an occupational psychologist or an appropriately qualified specialist teacher., clearly outlining how the disability, illness or learning difficulty presents a barrier to the assessment. The evidence must clearly demonstrate how the candidate’s specific needs affect their ability to perform under standard exam conditions. It is essential to note that the arrangements granted are based on individual requirements and are aligned with Cambridge International’s guidelines.

It is also important to understand that access arrangements are specific to each exam session and do not automatically apply to future sessions. Candidates must reapply for every exam series they register for, and all supporting documentation must be resubmitted with each application.

Additionally, there is a fee associated with each access arrangement service, which covers the administrative processes and services involved. To ensure arrangements are in place, applications must be submitted well in advance of the exam date. Students and parents are encouraged to contact the school’s exams officer or student advisor early to discuss and initiate the process.

Access arrangements are a vital part of our commitment to inclusivity and fairness, enabling all of our candidates to achieve their full potential in Cambridge International exams. 

For further information, please reach out to your exams officer or student advisor.