Exams

This information is relevant to students in the Faculty of Computing, Law and Psychology and the Faculty of Business, Humanities and Social Sciences.

Many programmes at the University of Buckingham involve exams as part of the assessment process. Centrally managed exams typically take place twice a year, during the final two weeks of the Spring and Autumn terms. Other assessments may be scheduled throughout the year. Exams may also take place on Saturdays, so travel arrangements should be made after the end of term.

It is each student’s responsibility to ensure they are familiar with the:

What you need to bring

  • University ID card (uCard)
  • Pens (blue/black ink), pencils, eraser (in a clear pencil case)
  • Water in a transparent bottle
  • Laptop + charger (if using ExamSoft)
  • Required Moodle access credentials (pre-tested) – Monitored Computer Lab Exams
  • Only materials explicitly permitted on the exam cover sheet
  • Reasonable adjustment materials (if applicable)

Reasonable adjustments

The University is committed to making reasonable adjustments for students with a formally recognised disability or specific learning difference.

If you require adjustments for your exams, you must contact the Wellbeing, Skills and Diversity (WSD) Team at WSD@buckingham.ac.uk well in advance of the examination period so these can be reviewed and agreed.

Last-minute requests cannot normally be accommodated, as arrangements must be formally approved and recorded before the exam timetable is finalised.

Exam formats

On-campus exams may take place in one of the following formats:

Invigilated Exam Room

These exams are held in person at the Vinson Building or Mount Pleasant Campus.

Exams may be ExamSoft-based or traditional paper-based and normally last 2 to 3 hours, depending on the module.

  • Arrive at least 10 minutes before the exam start time.
  • Your seat number and room will be posted outside the venue and may differ for each exam.

For ExamSoft exams, you must:

  • Bring your own laptop and power cable.
  • Ensure Examplify is installed, updated, and the exam file is downloaded before arriving.
  • Make sure your device meets the required specifications and is fully charged – minimum system requirements
  • You will receive the password to start the exam once seated, but must not begin until instructed by the Chief Invigilator.
  • Leave enough time to check your work and upload. Late submissions cannot be accepted or marked.

Tip: Please check your device and Examplify access well before exam week to avoid stress on the day. Students are responsible for ensuring their device is compatible and exam-ready.

Monitored Computer Lab Exams

These exams take place in designated campus computer labs and are monitored by invigilators.

You will be assigned a specific computer that is locked for exam use only.

  • Arrive at least 10 minutes early.
  • Access is restricted to exam materials via Moodle.
  • The internet will be disabled throughout the exam.
  • Exams are normally 2 to 3 hours long.
  • Save your work regularly and leave time to check, rename, and upload your file before the deadline.
  • Late submissions are not accepted.
  • Answers must be typed, unless otherwise stated.
  • If calculations or handwritten work are required, this will be clearly indicated on the exam coversheet. Submit these in a hardcopy exam booklet to the invigilator at the end.

Before your exam:

  • Check that you can log into Moodle and MS Office in advance.
  • Report any technical access issues to the IT Helpdesk as soon as possible (helpdesk@buckingham.ac.uk).
  • Students are expected to ensure they are technically ready to sit their exam; unresolved IT issues cannot be addressed on the day.

Frequently asked questions

When will I get my timetable?

You will usually receive your personal exam timetable by the end of Week 6 of the exam term via email. This message will also include important information about your exams. Any delays will be communicated by email and through your School of Study.

Where will my exam be held?

Your exam timetable email will list the location, date, and time for each exam. Seating plans are posted outside the venue on the day. Please read your timetable email carefully and notify registryexams@buckingham.ac.uk immediately if you spot any errors.

What should I do if I believe there’s an error on my timetable?

Check your timetable carefully and contact registryexams@buckingham.ac.uk right away if anything looks incorrect.

The University cannot accept timetable errors as a valid reason for non-attendance or late submission, so please double-check early to avoid any problems.

What if my personal device does not meet the ExamSoft specifications?

You must use your own laptop for ExamSoft assessments.

It’s your responsibility to ensure your device meets the minimum system requirements and is ready before the exam period.

If you need help checking compatibility, contact the IT Helpdesk at helpdesk@buckingham.ac.uk

Loan devices are extremely limited and not guaranteed, so please ensure your own equipment is suitable.

Where can I access past exam papers?

You can view past papers via the University’s Past Paper Library.

What should I do if I believe there’s an error in my exam?

If you believe there’s an error during the exam, raise your hand to alert an invigilator. Continue with another question while the issue is checked.

Once clarified, any updates will be communicated to all affected students promptly.

How do I claim mitigating circumstances or appeal a result?

The University recognises that genuine issues can occur, but attending or submitting work is taken as confirmation that you were able to do so.

Mitigating circumstances are defined as “recognisably disruptive or unexpected events, beyond the student’s control, that might have a significant and adverse impact on their academic performance.” Refer to Section 3.5a Mitigating Circumstances Policy and Procedure of the University’s Regulations Handbook for information on mitigating circumstances and how to apply.

If you are unsatisfied with a decision made by Boards of Examiners, Heads of Department, Research Officers or Research Examining Teams in relation to progression, assessment or awards. Refer to Section 3.6a (Academic Appeals Policy and Procedure) of the University’s Regulations Handbook for information on academic appeals and how to apply.

Exam Support

Revision and Exam Advice
ask@buckingham.ac.uk

Book a 1:1 ASK session
booking calendar

Past papers
Past Exam Papers via Sharepoint

IT and Moodle Access
helpdesk@buckingham.ac.uk

Issues during the exam
Contact registryexams@buckingham.ac.uk or notify an invigilator for invigilated exam hall examinations.