Exam candidate handbook
2026/27
contact & communication
Exams Office: Located near Reception at Homefield Road.
Email: exams@ucm.ac.im | Phone: (01624) 648200.
Notifications: Reminders are sent via text/email at least 24 hours before an exam. Ensure your contact details are up-to-date at Reception.
Before your exam
Entry Statements: You will receive a letter at least 2 weeks before the exam. Check your name, date of birth, and exam details immediately.
Access Arrangements: These must be approved by the SENCO in advance based on your “normal way of working”. Access arrangements cannot be added on the day of the exam unless due to a temporary injury with medical evidence.
Candidate Numbers: You will be provided with a 4-digit Candidate Number and a 13-character UCI (Unique Candidate Identifier) at the exam
Attending your exam
Locations: Either Homefield Road Campus or Thie Ushtey Test Centre (check your statement of entry).
Timing: Arrive 20 minutes before the start time (usually 9:15 am or 1:30 pm).
Identification: You must bring current photographic ID (Passport, Driving License, or UCM Student Card) and keep it on your desk. UCM cards are not accepted for specialist professional exams.
Equipment & rules
Permitted:
Prohibited: Black ball-point pens, clear pencil case, clear water bottle (no labels), non-programmable calculator (no lid/case).
*Watches/Smart Devices: No watches of any kind (analogue or digital) are allowed in the exam room.
Mobile Phones: Must be switched off and stored outside the room. Possession (even if off) leads to disqualification.
Other: No food (unless pre-approved), correction fluid, or gel pens.
during the exam
Exam Conditions: Start the moment you enter the room. You must remain silent and follow all invigilator instructions.
Leaving the Room: You cannot leave within the first hour or the final 15 minutes of the exam (unless for emergencies or pre-arranged rest breaks).
Academic Integrity: Use of AI, plagiarism, or social media for assessments is considered malpractice and may lead to disqualification.
After the exam
Results Dates 2026:
Cambridge A-Levels - 11 August 2026
Level 3 / A-Levels – 13 August 2026
Cambridge iGCSE – 18 August 2026
Level 2 / iGCSE – 20 August 2026
Certificates: Available 2–4 months after results. You must collect them in person with ID. Uncollected certificates are destroyed after 2 years.
Post-Results: Review of marking services are available for a fee. Be aware that marks can go down as well as up.
Frequently asked questions
Exam Nerves: It is normal to feel anxious. If you feel overwhelmed, visit Student Services for support. If you have a panic attack during an exam, raise your hand immediately to inform the invigilator.
Special Consideration: If a major life event (e.g., bereavement or serious injury) occurs on exam day, contact the Exams Office immediately. We may be able to apply for a small mark adjustment, but you will need to provide medical or professional evidence.
Late Arrival: If you are late, contact UCM immediately. Depending on how late you are, you may be allowed to sit the exam, but the exam board may refuse to mark it.
Illness: If you feel unwell during an exam, raise your hand to inform the invigilator.
Calculators: You are responsible for ensuring your calculator is a permitted model and that the memory is cleared