If you want to withdraw an approved SEAB access arrangement, make a formal request at least five working days before the applicable start date. School candidates should contact their school. Private candidates should email SEAB’s candidate services team. Once SEAB approves the withdrawal, the arrangement cannot be reinstated.
Check the dates and the support covered by the request before submitting it. SEAB says an arrangement that falls under its annotation policy can still be reflected on your result documents if it remains approved, even when you choose to sit without using it.
- Check which approved support and components the request would affect.
- Confirm the relevant start date and allow time for submission.
- Use the route for your candidate type.
- Check the decision before changing your exam-day plan.
Which deadline applies to you?
For a school candidate, SEAB says the school must submit the request through its examination system at least five working days before the coursework or examinations commence. Ask the school when it needs your instructions so it can submit on time.
For a private candidate, SEAB says to email SEAB_CS_Admin@seab.gov.sg at least five working days before the examinations start. Check the applicable start date with SEAB if you have several components or are unsure how to count the days.
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Check what would change on exam day
Review the official approval and identify the papers and support involved. If you are considering changing one arrangement while keeping another, ask the school or SEAB how to specify the scope and confirm what remains approved.
For example, a student considering withdrawal after a practice paper can compare that practice with the actual assessment conditions. Before making the request, check the effect on each paper with the school. SEAB says an approved withdrawal cannot be reversed.
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How withdrawal relates to annotations
SEAB identifies arrangements that can lead to an annotation when they significantly modify the standard examination conditions. Its guidance says choosing not to use an approved arrangement does not itself prevent the applicable annotation.
If you are uncertain about what an annotation means or what withdrawal would change, ask the school or SEAB to explain the decision for your components. See the access arrangements outcome guide for reading your approval.
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Frequently asked questions
Is telling the invigilator enough to withdraw?
Use the formal route before the deadline. Check the decision with your school or SEAB.
Can I reinstate the arrangement if I change my mind?
SEAB says it cannot be reinstated once the withdrawal is approved.
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Official information
Consult SEAB’s Access Arrangements guidance, especially the sections on annotations and withdrawal. Guidance checked on 8 November 2026.