Under SEAB’s 2026 secondary GCE rules, Science practical examinations run in shifts. Candidates follow the reporting instructions for their own shift, surrender electronic devices when reporting to examination personnel and report to the quarantine room after the practical. The rules provide for quarantine before and after the examination.
Read your personalised schedule before making plans. Check the reporting venue, reporting time and dismissal time. The time your practical ends and the time you can leave may differ.
- Use the schedule for your own shift.
- Check the reporting location and dismissal time.
- Follow staff directions for devices and belongings.
- Go to the quarantine room after the practical as instructed.
Plan around the whole session
Use your schedule to identify the reporting venue and timing. The 2026 secondary GCE rules tell private candidates to arrive at the designated venue 30 minutes before the reporting time shown in their schedule. They also say late reporting for an assigned shift may mean a candidate cannot sit the practical.
If a parent or friend is meeting you afterward, plan around dismissal. For example, if a schedule lists an exam end and a later dismissal, share the dismissal time when making pickup arrangements.
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What to do with your phone and materials
SEAB’s rules require candidates to surrender electronic devices when reporting to examination personnel. The device restrictions cover the reporting room, laboratory and quarantine room. Ask staff what to do with your belongings when you arrive.
Check the instructions for what you may take into the laboratory. The 2026 rules prohibit reference materials and unauthorised items. Keep your focus on the permitted materials for the component.
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If your schedule is missing
Private candidates can use the Science practical reporting guide for the official schedule route and when to contact SEAB. School candidates should check their school’s instructions.
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Frequently asked questions
Can I leave when the practical ends?
Follow the quarantine and dismissal instructions for your shift.
Does this set the rule for SEC?
Use the current SEC instructions for your exam year. This guide describes the published 2026 secondary GCE rules.
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Official information
Consult SEAB’s 2026 Rules and Regulations for GCE N(A), N(T) and O-Level candidates, especially section 7.3 on Science practical examinations. Guidance checked on 8 November 2026.