Rural Affairs Institute — Examination Taking Policies
These policies apply to all candidates at the examination venue and where remote/center-based exams are administered on behalf of the Rural Affairs Institute. Non-compliance may result in removal from the exam, cancellation of results, and further disciplinary action.
1. Before the Examination
- Arrival time: Candidates must arrive at the exam centre no later than 30 minutes to the exams starting time. Late arrivals may be refused entry or allowed at the discretion of the Invigilator.
- Identification: Present your exams admission slip/confirmation and a valid government-issued photo ID (National ID, Driver's Licence, Passport or Voter's Card). Photocopies or expired IDs are not accepted unless otherwise stated.
- Permitted items: Bring only authorised stationery (pens, pencils, erasers), a transparent water bottle, and the admission documents. Electronic devices (mobile phones, smartwatches, tablets, calculators not permitted by the paper) must be switched off and placed in the designated area.
- Clothing & badges: Remove outerwear (jackets, hats) where requested and avoid wearing clothing with hidden pockets or religious garments that cannot be reasonably inspected in privacy — if you require modesty accommodations notify the centre manager in advance.
2. During the Examination
2.1 Conduct
- Follow all instructions from invigilators. Keep your desk clear except for authorised materials. Raise your hand if you need assistance.
- Maintain silence in the examination hall. Any communication between candidates, copying or attempting to view another candidate’s work is strictly prohibited.
- Do not start writing until the official start time announced by the invigilator.
2.2 Electronic devices & calculators
- All mobile phones, smartwatches and similar devices are banned unless expressly allowed. Devices must be switched off and stored in the area directed by the invigilator.
- Only approved calculators are allowed for specific papers; confirm the permitted model list in the syllabus notes. Calculators with communication or storage functions are not allowed.
2.3 Special requirements & accommodations
- Candidates with approved accommodations (extra time, separate room, assistive technology) must carry the official accommodation notice. Reasonable adjustments require prior application and supporting documentation.
3. Exam Materials & Answers
- Use only the answer booklets and materials supplied by the invigilator. Do not remove question papers, answer booklets or any exam material from the hall unless authorised.
- Write clearly in the spaces provided. Cross out and initial any changes as instructed in the paper’s guidance.
- If an error is discovered in the question paper, notify the invigilator immediately. Do not circulate the question paper or exam content outside the hall.
4. Malpractice & Disciplinary Measures
Any form of malpractice will be investigated. Examples include (but are not limited to):
- Possession or use of unauthorised materials or devices.
- Collusion, impersonation, or assisting another candidate.
- Attempting to remove exam materials or reproduce questions for distribution.
- Any behaviour that compromises the integrity of the examination process (bribery, threats to staff).
Sanctions may include immediate removal, cancellation of the candidate’s script(s), barring from future exams, and reporting to relevant authorities. Candidates will be informed of the investigation outcome and may appeal per the Institute’s appeals process.
5. Security & Surveillance
For the security of candidates and the integrity of exams, venues may use CCTV or audio monitoring. Recordings are retained for investigation purposes under the Institute’s data retention policy and handled in accordance with the Privacy Notice.
6. Emergencies & Health
- In case of emergency (fire alarm, medical incident), remain calm and follow invigilator instructions. Evacuation procedures will be explained before the exam starts.
- If a candidate falls ill during the exam, notify an invigilator immediately. Medical incidents are recorded and the Institute will consider special arrangements (resit or allowance) based on evidence.
- During public-health events (pandemic outbreaks), the Institute may impose additional requirements such as face coverings, social distancing or adjusted seating.
7. Results, Appeals & Misconduct Handling
- Results will be issued per published schedules. Queries about marks or grading should follow the formal appeals process described on the Institute website.
- Appeals must be submitted within the stated deadline and include required fees (if applicable) and supporting documents. Grounds for appeal include administrative errors or marking irregularities.
- Allegations of malpractice are investigated; if a candidate is found guilty, the result may be cancelled and sanctions applied. Candidates have the right to appeal an adverse finding following the Institute’s procedures.
8. Remote / Online Exam Considerations
Where the Institute uses remote proctoring or online assessments, candidates must:
- Use a supported device and browser, ensure stable internet, and follow the technical checklist provided before the exam.
- Allow access to camera and microphone if required for proctoring. Proctoring sessions may record video, audio and screen activity for review.
- Disclose any environmental constraints prior to the exam (e.g., childcare, shared accommodation) so reasonable adjustments can be considered.
9. Confidentiality & Use of Exam Materials
Exam content, marking schemes and model answers are the property of the Rural Affairs Institute. Unauthorized reproduction, publication or sharing of exam materials is prohibited and may lead to legal action and disciplinary measures.
10. Candidate Declaration
By taking part in the examination, the candidate declares that they will comply with these policies and understand the consequences of non-compliance.