Summary

The SQE Fit to Sit Policy and SQE Candidate Confidentiality Policy have been updated and with minor changes. The updated policies apply with immediate effect and will first apply to the January 2025 SQE1 and SQE2 assessments.

We encourage all candidates to read the updated policies for full details and to understand their responsibilities and options. A non-exhaustive summary of the key changes is below.

Fit to Sit Policy

The changes aim to ensure that candidates are well-informed and prepared to make the best decisions relating to assessment participation.

Enhanced reporting procedures

• Candidates are now required to report any illness or unforeseen personal circumstances to either the invigilator or proctor. The inclusion of proctor reporting accommodates assessments conducted via remote proctoring for candidates with reasonable adjustments, ensuring comprehensive support.
• Timely reporting is essential, and must be done "as soon as possible and at the latest before leaving the assessment," to ensure accurate documentation.

Further guidance on mitigating circumstances

• The policy now offers expanded guidance on submitting mitigating circumstances claims. Prompt reporting is vital for claims concerning illness or unexpected personal issues during the assessment. Claims may be rejected if not reported, unless exceptional circumstances are presented.
• Clear examples of non-acceptable circumstances post-signing the Fit to Sit declaration are now provided, supporting informed decision-making for candidates.

Revised Fit to Sit Declaration

• The Fit to Sit Declaration has been updated to include provisions for reporting to a proctor, enhancing clarity for candidates in remote assessment settings.

Candidate Confidentiality Policy

Minor updates to this policy have been made to strengthen the integrity and security of the assessment process.

The Confidentiality Agreement

• The agreement now explicitly prohibits the copying of any assessment materials, in addition to the existing prohibition on removing materials from the test centre.

Responsibility

• The updated policy emphasises the candidate's responsibility to adhere to the confidentiality terms before, during, and after the assessment. This ensures all candidates are fully aware of their obligations throughout the entire assessment process.

Clarified breach conditions

• This update enhances fairness and transparency in the assessment environment by explicit provision that any action, intentional or otherwise, that results in an unfair advantage is now clearly identified as a potential breach of Assessment Regulation 13.

Adaptation for remote assessments

• The policy now includes provisions for remote assessments, requiring candidates to remain connected until permission is granted by the Test Centre Administrator or proctor. This ensures consistent standards across all assessment formats.

Learn more: Policies