Online Exams

Being well-prepared before your online exams means that you can focus on doing your best once the exam starts. Use this checklist to make sure you're ready, and read the FAQs to feel confident about how it all works and what to expect.

Online Exam Platforms

Centrally Timetabled Exams

Managed by the University's Central Exams Team

All centrally timetabled online exams start in the Warwick Assessment System (WAS).
The majority of exams then continue to take place in WAS (e.g. completing your exam questions/uploading your submissions).
However, in some cases, after logging in to WAS you may be linked to an alternative platform to complete your exam, for example Moodle or Questionmark Perception (QMP). Your department will let you know beforehand if this is the case.
Always log into WAS first and follow the instructions provided. These will link you directly to where you need to go - this is not something you have to worry about.

Top tip: If you are taking an exam in an alternate platform, always keep the WAS tab open. This allows you to see any announcements, and contact invigilators if needed.

Locally Timetabled Exams

Managed by your department

Online locally timetabled exams, or in-class tests, may take place in platforms such as Moodle, Tabula, MyWBS or WAS.
Your department will provide you with clear instructions on which platform to use and how.
Follow guidance provided by your department and ask your module tutor if you're unsure.

Additional Guidance:

Student Guidance: using WAS Student Guidance: using WAS as a portal to alternative platforms In-Person Exams: FAQs

Checklists for Online Exams

Weeks Before

Confirm your exam details - check your personalised timetable in eVisionLink opens in a new window for details such as the date, time, duration and platform of your online exam.
Know your exam format - find out if it's multiple choice, essay or open book. Details, once ready, will be on on Moodle, Tabula or MyWBS. Ask your module tutor/leader if you would like to clarify any details.
Practice using the Warwick Assessment System - your department will set up a trial assessment, or a mock exam. This is designed to build your confidence and understanding of the system. You'll receive information from your department on how to access and complete this.
Revise and prepare - use study methods that work for you and give yourself plenty of time to review the content. Explore techniques and tips on this page!Link opens in a new window

Days Before

Plan your study space - need a quiet space if your accommodation isn't suitable, or better WiFi? Explore Campus SpacesLink opens in a new window and Library Spaces.Link opens in a new window
Check your tech - make sure your laptop, Wi-Fi and browser are ready. Always do a full tech check before your exams and give yourself time to fix any issues.
Set your alarm clock - make sure to set your alarm to avoid any last minute-stress, and double check it!
Understand Academic Integrity - Ensure you feel confident with online academic integrityLink opens in a new window expectations.

On the Day

Log in early - sign in to your exam platform with plenty of time before the official start of your exam.
Prepare your workspace - create a clear desk space so you can focus. Only keep permitted items on your desk.
Pay attention to announcements - read any messages from invigilators.
Read exam instructions carefully - when you open your assessment, read all guidance carefully before you start. Assessment instructions are specific to each exam, so take your time to fully understand them.

Trial Assessments

All students are strongly encouraged to take a trial assessment in the WAS system before your official exam. Trial assessments are available to help you to feel confident and reduce stress!

Trial assessments are:

Available, in most cases, two weeks before each exam period starts.
Not compulsory and are not marked - they are just to help you understand the system.
Designed to help you to get familiar with the platform (e.g. practice uploading PDF documents).
You will receive an email from the system and/or your department when WAS trial assessments are available for you to take.

Some departments also run mock assessments in WAS related to your subject (which will be marked and / or taking place at a specific date and time). Your department will inform you if they plan any mock exams.

Trial Assessments: Find Out More

Students with alternative exam arrangements (AEAs):

We recommend that you attempt trial/mock assessments to explore the range of accessibility tools available and identify any accessibility challenges that may be presented. If you're unsure about any of this, please speak to your department's Programme Team, or Disabled Student ChampionLink opens in a new window.

Support Available in Online Exams

Technical Difficulties (for WAS System Issues)

Contact the team for platform problems such as: log in issues, WAS page not loading, error messages when uploading a file.

How to Contact:

Click 'Click here for technical support' on the right hand side of the WAS page.
Service Desk availability: Monday - Friday 08:00-20:00 (email and self-service).
If you enquiry is urgent or outside these hours: Call +44 (0)24 7657 3737 (available 24/7).

Technical Support for WAS Report a fault with WAS

Invigilator Support (for exam paper issues)

Contact invigilators for exam content/display problems, such as: wrong exam paper uploaded or blank exam paper.

How to contact:

Submit a query via the WAS Invigilator Query Form (on the right hand side of the WAS page).
Please note: there is no individual two-way communication/live chat possible in WAS; if a query raised applies to many students, they will respond via a direct message to all students.

If you encounter technical or exam paper issues that prevent you from being able to complete the assessment in time, or at all, report the issue to your department using the Mitigating Circumstances Portal.Link opens in a new window