Our examination session started on Monday, 8 September, and unfortunately, we faced a number of challenges at different locations around the world. We wanted to update you on how we are handling each of these issues and ensuring that candidates are supported appropriately.
Global issue – exam paper downloads
There was an issue with candidates’ ability to download the CS2-A and CP1 (paper 1) examination papers caused by a recent server upgrade at our exam platform provider. This resulted in a delay of up to 25 minutes for some candidates when downloading their examination paper.
The issue was quickly investigated and resolved by the provider and candidates affected in centres were given additional time to complete their examinations. There were a few centres, including Birmingham, where there was a delay informing invigilators about the process but all candidates in these centres were able to complete their examinations in the usual time allowed. We are reviewing the action taken in these centres to ensure that all candidates were treated fairly and will make appropriate additional allowances if required.
Candidates taking the examinations under remote invigilation who were affected have been advised to submit an application for mitigating circumstances, which will be checked against their log on time and recording of their exam session to determine how they were impacted and any adjustments necessary.
We are sorry that this technical problem occurred, but we have been assured by our platform provider that the same problem will not occur again.
UK, London – Underground Strikes
Candidates sitting their exams in London have been affected by the ongoing London Underground strike, which has led to transport disruption. Reports from our invigilators suggest that the majority of candidates are arriving at centres in time for the start of their exams. We strongly encourage candidates to leave additional time to travel to exam centres while the strike is on. We have contingency plans in place to give candidates arriving late for their exam due to travel disruption the opportunity to complete the exam wherever possible.
India, Delhi – Yamuna River Floods
The floods caused by the Yamuna River are leading to significant disruption in and around Delhi. Although our exam centres have remained open there have been challenges for many candidates in travelling to these centres. We have reallocated candidates who have requested to other centres or to remote invigilation wherever possible and would encourage candidates who believe they will have challenges in travelling to their centre to contact us.
Hong Kong – Tropical Storm Tapah
Tropical Storm Tapah caused disruption across Hong Kong on Monday, however, our examination centre remained open, and candidates were able to write their exams at the centre.
Nepal – Protests
There are protests in Nepal which are resulting in disruption and some internet outages. All candidates based in Nepal are taking their exams using remote invigilation. We encourage candidates to take the examinations as normal and if they encounter any issues or disruptions to report these through the mitigating circumstances process.
We are monitoring the above situations carefully and supporting candidates wherever possible. Please be reassured that the effects of all of these incidents on candidates will be fully considered.
If candidates need any specific help or guidance, they can contact exams@actuaries.org.uk