Autumn 2020: Special Consideration

If a student cannot sit an exam due to self-isolation, can they get a result?

A student can receive a full award by applying for special consideration for the absence(s) due to self-isolation, provided that the JCQ 25% minimum requirement has been met.

In exceptional circumstances, students who have completed less than 25% of the units/components can achieve a result. In these cases, students must complete at least one examination/assessment.

What if a student misses all their exams due to self-isolation?

If none of the examinations or assessments in a specification can be taken then a result is not possible. Students must complete at least one exam/assessment to achieve a result via special consideration. We cannot issue a centre assessment grade as this was an extraordinary measure put in place for summer 2020, when no students were able to sit examinations.

What evidence do we need to apply for a special consideration absence due to self-isolation?

You must be able to fully support an application you submit requesting special consideration. You need to look at what verbal or written evidence has been provided by a student or their family and decide on whether you feel the reason is genuine. 

The minimum evidence that should be held in centre to support a special consideration application is a centre file note signed by a member of the senior leadership team. You may wish to use a JCQ Self-Certification Form 14 or internally devised forms to help your record keeping. We do not need a doctor’s note to support each application.

Are students eligible for special consideration if they can take an exam but were self-isolating beforehand?

This would depend on the circumstances affecting them during their isolation period. Special consideration would not be available just because they could not attend school or college. Schools and colleges have a duty to provide students with work and support to prepare them for their examinations.

However, if a student was affected by illness or other adverse circumstances during their isolation which still affects them at the time of the examination(s), they could be eligible for special consideration.

Does OCR issue health guidance regarding sitting examinations?

No - we cannot issue health guidance. Local and national health guidance should be followed, for example the NHS, Public Health England or other relevant authority.

Where can I find government guidance regarding the Autumn exams?

Government guidance can be found on their website.