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Ofqual Opens Consultation on Limited On‑Screen GCSE and A‑Level Exams Targeted for the End of the Decade

The regulator outlines a cautious rollout that excludes high‑entry subjects, requiring school‑provided devices.

Overview

  • Public consultation runs until 5 March on proposals to allow on‑screen assessment in smaller‑entry GCSEs and most A‑levels, excluding maths.
  • Each of the four exam boards could submit up to two new on‑screen specifications, allowing for a maximum of eight qualifications with digital components.
  • Subjects with more than 100,000 annual entries would be ineligible at this stage, and traditional pen‑and‑paper exams remain central.
  • Schools would have to supply devices for any on‑screen exams, with pupils’ personal laptops, tablets or phones not permitted.
  • Ofqual and sector leaders highlight cybersecurity, technical reliability and digital inequality as key risks, with any approved courses expected to be taught for around three years before first exams near the end of the decade.