PQ Magazine’s guide to ensuring ACCA RI exam success this March

Making the ACCA Remote Invigilated exams work for you requires some ‘future planning’. We have now had three sets of RI exams, so what should be your top priorities? Check out PQ magazine’s guide to making your RI exam a success this March…

ACCA has reiterated that there are three things you must get right prior to exam day:

1. Connectivity

Poor connectivity or internet interruptions can lead to problems. To help reduce the chances of this students should use a wired connection if possible. All pop-up blockers should be disabled to prevent interruptions and internet cookies should be enabled

2. The technical requirements

PQs must check that their computers/laptops meet the minimum technical requirements and pass the system test. If your machine fails to meet the technical requirements the ACCA says you should not book a remote exam.

3. Corporate firewalls

Work computer often have more restrictions, such as corporate firewalls, that could prevent successful delivery. If you are using a work laptop you must check the network configuration. To do this go to: https://home.pearsonvue.com/op/OnVUE-technical-requirements?mid=51255000&rid=7802206&cid=FCP_44058163_DM118987&market=GB&region=UK&campaignlabel=

For more guidance go to ACCA’s remote ready page at: https://www.accaglobal.com/gb/en/student/exam-entry-and-administration/computer-based-exams/remote-session-exams.html?market=GB&utm_campaign=Learning%20Partners–PTR_TEACH_EMAIL_7-August-2020&utm_medium=email&campaignlabel=Teach%20Magazine%20Newsletter&mid=55701900&rid=7898775&region=UK&utm_source=adobecampaign&cid=DM125872

Remote ACCA session CBEs – this is what your work area on exam day should look like:

DESKTOP SET-UP

Clear desk area

One monitor

Separate keyboard

Separate mouse

Webcam

Calculator (refer to exam guidelines)

A clear glass of water or small bottle (all labels removed)

NOT ALLOWED: Additional monitors, additional peripherals, additional food and drink, headsets/earphones/earbuds, and no scrap paper

LAPTAP SET-UP

Option 1                                                                      

Clear desk area                                                          

Laptop screen with built in webcam

Separate keyboard (optional)

Calculator (refer to exam guidelines)

A clear glass of water or small bottle (all labels removed)

NOT ALLOWED: Additional monitors, additional peripherals, additional food and drink, headsets/earphones/earbuds, and no scrap paper

Option 2

Clear desk area

One external monitor (laptop screen must be closed)

Separate keyboard

Separate mouse

Webcam sitting on top of monitor

Calculator (refer to exam guidelines)

A clear glass of water or small bottle (all labels removed)

NOT ALLOWED: Additional peripherals, additional food and drink, headsets/earphones/earbuds, and no scrap paper

NOTE: All mobile phones must be placed out of arms reach before starting your exam

Use this video from the ACCA to help with the scratch pad for the Applied Skills OT questions. https://www.youtube.com/embed/-xYhh3KvOAg

How to use the CBE scratch pad for Applied Skills OT questions: https://www.youtube.com/embed/-xYhh3KvOAg?fbclid=IwAR0KRL1_BdB7b1XySd74egFPIy2hRSUDlS9LetI9wM_IQSye3m3WwHuyc6U