Exam access for medical needs

Sitting exams when you are ill, in hospital, or unable to get to school.

What it is

Boards allow exams to be taken away from the centre in defined circumstances — at home, in hospital or in another approved venue — and allow special consideration where illness affects performance.

Where it applies

Candidates with medical conditions, injuries or circumstances at the time of the exam.

How it works

Access arrangements are agreed in advance; special consideration is applied afterwards, where something at or near the time affected performance. Special consideration adjusts marks by a small percentage and cannot compensate for prolonged absence.

Sitting at an alternative venue needs board approval and specific supervision arrangements.

What you can ask for

Tell the exams officer as early as possible. Arrangements away from the centre need lead time.

Ask for special consideration to be applied for if illness or bereavement affected you, and provide evidence promptly — the deadlines are days, not weeks.

If a whole course has been disrupted, ask what evidence the centre holds for a possible grade decision route.

Where to get help

Your exams officer, who runs this. JCQ publishes the access arrangements and special consideration rules.