Guidelines to sitting your exam
Information about exam delivery, rules, changing exam times and frequently asked questions.
Your exams will be delivered in one of three ways:
- Online
- Face to face (paper or computer lab)
- Online via Zoom
Each of these delivery modes are different and it is essential that you understand which form/s your exams will take.
The full details of your assessment task will be available in your subject LMS site. There, you will find specific instructions from your subject coordinator and an indication of how long the task should take you to complete. These details will appear in your subject LMS site soon – so keep an eye out.
There are two different types of online assessment tasks:
1. Assessments with a set time to complete – these tasks have a specific beginning and end time
- Carefully check the details of your scheduled assessment task date and its start and finish time.
- Make sure you allow yourself enough time to complete the task before the end of the allocated time.
2. Assessments with a window of time to complete – these tasks can be completed any time over a set period as specified for each assessment task
- Can be completed at any time throughout the specified window.
- An example of a window of time in which you can complete the task could be 12 or 24 hours.
- You’re not expected to use the entire window of time to complete the task and you shouldn’t feel like you need to write more to use up the time frame.
- Your subject coordinator will let you know a suggested writing time via your subject LMS site which should give you an indication of how long it will take to complete the assessment task.
Technical difficulties during an online assessment
Technical difficulties taking online exams are rare, but we understand that sometimes the unexpected does happen. Here are our recommendations on what you need to do if an unforeseen incident occurs during your exam:
- Get a screenshot of
- the problem/error message
- the current state of your exam
- Contact Student IT Support, they specialise in technical issues and may be able to help you in real-time. If you're unable to contact Student IT support over the phone, please log a support request online. Ensure that you write down the incident/reference number, you will need this to apply for special consideration.
- Email a copy of the current state of your exam to the subject coordinator along with a brief explanation of the problem you are experiencing so they have a reliable record of when the problem occurred. This will allow the subject coordinator to consider a fair outcome.
- If you lost time on your exam and/or were unable to access your exam, contact the help desk. We have ways of reviewing your exam sessions to verify your problem and will work with you and your instructor to identify fair options, such as granting a second attempt or extra time to complete your exam.
- If your internet connection drops out or your computer shuts down during an online exam, you just need to log back in and reconnect.
If something happens and you're not able to complete your exam, you can apply for Special Consideration. Make sure you provide supporting evidence such as screenshots or emails and you need to apply within 5 business days* of the exam.
Face to face exams are held at a time, date and location as specified on the exam timetable. These may be a written paper exam or an online exam in a computer lab on campus.
What to bring to your exam
You must bring your Student ID card or other form of photo ID (Australian government issued photo ID or your passport) with you to every exam. It must be displayed on your desk for the whole exam.
You can bring all standard stationery (e.g. writing instruments, an unmarked eraser and an unmarked ruler), a clear bottle of water with no labels, and the allowable materials [PDF 114KB] specific to your exam, which will be listed on the timetable and the exam cover sheet. Pencil cases are not permitted.
Mobile phones and smartwatches must be switched off before entering the exam venue and placed in a non-transparent bag under your chair. Wristwatches must be placed on your desk.
No smoking, eating, or drinking (hot beverages) during your exam.
When you arrive
Check your seat number listed on the list outside the exam venue.
Exam staff will provide instructions once you are permitted to enter the exam venue.
During your exam
Follow all instructions given by exam staff.
Place your student ID on the desk facing up. Once writing time begins, exam staff will check your student ID.
Writing is not permitted during reading time (unless specified on your exam cover sheet).
Do not write your name or signature on any exam materials.
There is no talking permitted within the exam venue, unless speaking with a supervisor. You must not disrupt or distract others.
You won't be permitted to enter an exam venue after 30 minutes of writing time has passed.
After your exam
You won't be permitted to leave the exam venue within the first 30 minutes of writing time or within the last 15 minutes of the exam.
Exam materials must not be removed from the exam venue. This includes exam papers, script books, multiple choice answer sheets and other supplied materials.
Please note that extra time will not be granted to any student who does not present for an examination at the correct time and place.
If you feel unwell during the exam or feel that your performance was affected in any way check if you are eligible for Special Consideration.
Online Zoom exams are delivered online, via an LMS-based system and supervised remotely via Zoom by an exam invigilator.
Where do I sit my online Zoom exam?
You are required to sit your online Zoom exam at home in a quiet location, in a room by yourself (in isolation).
You are not required to come to campus for online Zoom exams.
Details regarding your individual Zoom link and password will be provided prior to your exam. Please ensure you are keeping an eye on your student emails.
How will my Alternative Assessment Schedule (AAS) be accommodated?
If you have a Learning Access Plan (LAP), the normal arrangements will apply.
Your subject coordinator will make sure you’re allowed the provisions stated in your LAP for each appropriate assessment task.
The exam team will accommodate your requirements and confirm your arrangements 2 weeks before the start of the final assessment period.
Please contact AccessAbility and Inclusion if you have any questions about your LAP or need further assistance with your studies.
Visit the AAS website to check your eligibility and submit a request if you’re eligible.
Alternative Assessment Schedules for Online Zoom exams will be managed by the exams team, along with your Subject Coordinator. We will ensure your Zoom set-up caters to your provisions and extra time is allowed where required.
Academic Integrity
It is the University's responsibility to award credit for honestly conducted work, and it is your responsibility to ensure that you demonstrate academic integrity. If you are found in possession of unauthorised material during an exam or be found to have committed an alleged academic misconduct, you could face disciplinary action.
Preparing for your exams
Tips & Tricks
We have a range of support services available to students to help you prepare and remain relaxed in the lead up to exams.
- The Learning Hub offer help with assessments and study from PLAs and expert staff
- Student learning can also help to improve your study skills and assist with assignments.
- Peer Learning Advisers (PLAs) are experienced and successful students trained to assist you with preparing and writing assignments.
- Career Ready can help to plan for your career and explore the range of options available based on the course of your study.
- Drop in or call the University’s Wellbeing Resource Centre, or visit the website for a full list of our support services for health and wellbeing.