Examination information

Key Information for NCEA Level 2 and 3 External Examinations

Exam timetable and timings

  • Please use the official NZQA website detailing the exact date and session for each Level 2 and Level 3 subject.
  • Parents should consult the link above for the NZ Scholarship Assessment Timetable. 
  • Morning examinations typically commence at 9:30 am.
  • Afternoon examinations generally begin at 2:00 pm.
  • Students must be present 20 minutes before the start of the examination.
  • All NCEA external examinations are three hours in length; however, not all students will take the three external papers for their examination. 
  • If a student is late, they can still enter the examination room during the first 30 minutes. No extra time is given.
  • All NCEA and Scholarship examinations are held in the main gymnasium. 

 

Examination entrance slip and ID

  • All students have been supplied with an examination slip which must be taken into the examination. 
  • Clear guidelines of what they can or cannot bring into the examination are outlined on the reverse of the slip. 
  • A student can reprint an entry slip using their individual NZQA login. 
  • If a student arrives without their slip, they must see Mrs Bradford or Mrs Rayner.
  • For Scholarship Examination, students need to bring a photo ID (driver’s licence or student ID).

 

Procedures for absence, impaired performance and Derived Grades

It is imperative that parents and students understand the correct procedure to follow if a student is unable to attend an external examination or believes their performance has been significantly affected. Should a student be unable to attend an examination due to illness, injury, or a critical event, the school must be notified immediately.

  • Contact: The School Office or the Principal’s Nominee, Helen Bradford (on the morning of the affected examination or as soon as the situation is known).
  • The reason for the absence must be immediately verifiable and beyond the student’s control. A medical certificate or other supporting evidence must be obtained promptly and submitted to the school.

A Derived Grade is an evidence-based result awarded to a student by NZQA when they cannot attend an external examination, or their performance is seriously impaired, due to approved exceptional circumstances. See details for derived grades on the NZQA website here. 

 

Preparatory and support information

To optimise your child’s examination success, please ensure they adhere to the following preparatory steps:

  • Review of entry: Confirm that the student’s subjects and standards entered for the NCEA external examinations are correct.
  • NZQA learner login: Encourage your child to access their personal NZQA Learner Login to check their entries, results, and ensure their personal details are correct.
  • Exam room requirements: Students must be fully aware of the NZQA rules for examination rooms, particularly the requirements for approved materials and the strict prohibition of electronic communication devices.
  • Wellbeing: Promote a balanced approach to revision. Adequate rest, nutrition, and stress management are vital components of effective examination preparation. See more information on the Managing Exam Stress here.