Test security and integrity

Security of materials

You must at all times ensure the security of all exam materials at your centre and venues. This includes storing them securely before the test day, keeping them safe on the day, and handling them correctly after the test day. Materials which are returned to us must be sent via a reliable courier, and any materials destroyed locally must be destroyed in a secure manner.

We take the security of our materials very seriously, and expect all centres to comply with our rigorous security requirements.

Detailed requirements:

Secure container and secure location:

• Materials must be stored in a safe or reinforced metal cabinet.
• The safe or cabinet must be in a securely locked room.
  • Ideally, the room should not have any windows and be on an upper floor.
  • If there are windows (whether internal or external) they should be fitted with security devices.
  • The door to the room must be of solid construction, have secure hinges and be fitted with a secure lock.
  • Access to the room should be restricted to two or three key holders.

If you are using venues, these must also have suitable secure storage and you must transport the materials there securely. If the venue doesn’t meet the above requirements, there are some alternatives that can be considered such as having materials supervised by a member of Centre staff at all times.

Secure testing

You are also responsible for ensuring that exams are run in a secure manner – this includes preventing malpractice (cheating), checking candidates ID’s to prevent impersonation, and putting in place measures to ensure materials are not compromised.