If an approved access arrangement is missing at your GCE examination, alert examination personnel immediately. SEAB’s 2026 secondary GCE rules say candidates granted access arrangements should present the outcome letter before the exam starts and speak up immediately if the approved support is not provided.
Bring the outcome letter and check which arrangement applies to that exact subject or component. If you notice a difference at the venue, show the letter and ask the invigilator to check the instructions.
- Keep the outcome letter ready for examination staff.
- Check the subject, component and approved support.
- Raise the issue immediately if the setup differs.
- Follow the instructions given by examination personnel.
What to say at the venue
Show the outcome letter and describe the difference. A candidate might say, “My outcome letter lists extra time for this paper. Could you please check the timing for my seat?” This gives the invigilator the paper and the point to verify.
For a room, reader or equipment arrangement, identify what the letter specifies. Follow staff directions while the issue is checked. Use the official process for any move, change in timing or equipment setup.
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Check the approval one paper at a time
An arrangement can apply to particular components. Read the outcome against the paper code and reporting instructions. Ask the school or SEAB in advance if you cannot tell whether a component is covered.
Keep the approval with the other documents you need for reporting. For help locating the decision, see the access arrangements outcome guide.
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If you need to follow up after the paper
Contact the school or official candidate route promptly and state what happened. Include the examination date, paper, arrangement approved and when you raised the issue. Ask what procedure applies and whether any deadline or supporting information is relevant.
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Frequently asked questions
Should I wait until the paper ends to report it?
SEAB’s secondary GCE rules say to alert examination personnel immediately.
Can I set the extra time myself?
Show the approval and follow the invigilator’s instructions.
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Official information
Consult SEAB’s 2026 Rules and Regulations for GCE N(A), N(T) and O-Level candidates, particularly its instructions on approved access arrangements at the venue. Guidance checked on 8 November 2026.