What is the difference between IGCSE and GCSE?
IGCSE (International GCSE) examinations are the same level as GCSE exams and are recognised equally by further and higher education providers along with employers. Many of the top private schools in the UK offer IGCSE courses to their students. Often IGCSE courses and exams are more accessible to private candidates as they have less coursework or speaking components.
I don’t have a passport or driving license. What other forms of ID are acceptable?
We can accept a recently expired (12 months) passport at the time of booking. However, you will need to bring a valid passport or driving licence to the exams. Alternatively a Pass Card issued by Citizen Card through the Post Office is acceptable.
Do you need to have completed a course in order to register for the exam?
No, you do not need to have completed a formal study course in order to apply to take the exam. Many of our learners are ‘self-taught’ having used tutors or online resources.
What is a UCI number?
A UCI (Unique Candidate Identity) number is issued to candidates when they first take exams and should ideally be used for all exams that they take after this. If you have not taken any exams previously we will create a new UCI. If you have taken any previous exams please enter your UCI before completing your booking. The UCI number takes the form or 12 numbers followed by a letter (e.g. 202120201234X) and can normally be found on statements of entry or results or on some exam certificates.
Are these the same exams taken in schools and colleges?
Yes, these are exactly the same exams students take in schools and colleges. These exams are taken at the same time and day as students taking them in school or colleges.
What are the (AM) and (PM) next to the exam dates?
Each exam date features two distinct sessions: a Morning Session (AM) and an Afternoon Session (PM).
Morning Session (AM): For AM examinations, candidates must arrive at our exam hall no later than 8:15 AM. The examination will begin promptly at 9:00 AM.
Afternoon Session (PM): For PM examinations, candidates are required to arrive at our exam hall no later than 12:15 PM. The examination will begin promptly at 1:00 PM.
Please ensure you arrive on time to avoid any disruption to your examination.
Am I too old to take these exams?
There is no age limit to take these examinations. We have had candidates in their 70s who have taken them and achieved high marks.
What is your policy about refunds?
Please view our cancellation policy - click here
How can I avoid paying the late and high fees?
To ensure a smooth process and avoid additional charges, please take note of the following important information regarding deadlines:
These crucial deadline dates are conveniently located at the very top of each subject's respective page, making them easily accessible for your reference.
To steer clear of any late fees, kindly ensure that both your application and payment are submitted by the stipulated deadline.
Plan ahead and mark your calendars to guarantee timely submission and a hassle-free experience!
Can I still book my exam after the entry deadline dates?
Yes Absolutely! Entries submitted after the specified deadline dates can still be processed; however, please be aware that you will incur late fees or high late fees in addition to the standard entry fees. To ensure you are well-informed, the deadline dates will be clearly displayed on the subject pages of our website. It's always best to submit your entries on time to avoid any additional charges.
Can I choose what day I take my examinations?
The examination dates are set by the examination board and must be adhered to by us, the centre. The exam dates and times cannot be changed.
What happens if I have a clash between two exams?
If you have two exams scheduled on the same day, we will arrange for you to take one in the morning (AM) session and the other in the afternoon (PM) session.
Important Note for Two PM Exams:
If you are scheduled to take two exams in the afternoon (PM) session, please inform our registration staff at the exam hall immediately upon arrival. This will allow us to prepare your second PM exam paper for the morning (AM) session.
Supervised Interval and Break Between Sessions:
During the interval between the AM and PM sessions, you will be required to remain in the exam hall under the direct supervision of our invigilators. While you will not be permitted to use any mobile devices, tablets, or laptops, you will be allowed to revise using your books or notes.
We also strongly recommend that you also bring a packed lunch to enjoy during this break.
What happens if I am absent for an examination?
If you are going to be absent from your exam you will need to call our Exam Centre to inform us. If you are absent due to illness you will need to call your GP or 111 – we may be able to apply for special consideration on your behalf if we have the necessary evidence.
What equipment do I need to bring to the exams?
You need to bring with you standard writing equipment, it is good practice to have 2 black biros; you are only allowed to have a clear see through pencil case. You may also use a highlighter to highlight the text in the question paper, but you are not allowed to highlight any handwritten text.
What am I allowed and not allowed to bring into the exam hall?
You are allowed stationary to complete the exam, this must be in a clear pencil case and you may bring a clear, unlabelled bottle of water. Items that do not meet these criteria will not be allowed in the exam hall. Wallets and purses which fit in your pocket may be taken into the exam hall. Books, notes and papers (except where allowed by the specification) along with mobile phones, headphones (except where required for a listening exam) and watches are not allowed in the exams.
Is there somewhere that I can leave mobile phones and other belongings?
Yes, these will be collected by our invigilation staff when you arrive and stored safely as mobile phones and other belongings cannot be taken into the exam hall. You will be given a ticket when your belongings are collected and you will need the ticket to reclaim them at the end of the exam.
Is car parking available at the exam location?
Yes, ample free car parking is available at the Birmingham Moseley Rugby Club where exams are held. There is on-street parking and public car parks close to the Exam Centre in Sparkhill.
Can I request a review of marking?
You can request a review of marking for any of the exams that you take. The exam boards charge a fee per exam paper and there is a one-off £15 administration fee.
Can I request my marked exam paper?
In some circumstances it may be possible to request a copy of your marked examination paper. There is a fee of £15 per subject for this service.
When do I receive my certificates?
Certificates are usually available some 4-5 months after results have been published. These are sent to candidates by ‘signed for’ post. It is important you inform us of any change of address.
