
5 tips to get exam ready and stay cyber safe

In advance of any exam series, it is vital for schools, colleges and other educational establishments to have everything in place to protect confidential information and data. Here are five practical tips and reminders to help everyone plan and prepare for the weeks ahead, ensuring the effective delivery of a successful exam series.
1. Make sure all your accounts are in order
Access your awarding organisation systems and accounts in plenty of time to ensure everything is tested and set up appropriately. Check that all permissions are correct and delete any accounts that are no longer needed, such as those for colleagues who have left or changed role.
2. Set up appropriate levels of electronic access
Electronic access is like holding the keys to a safe. Make certain everything is secure and that the appropriate level of access to important information is available when needed. By providing correct access levels to other members of your team, and ensuring they understand their responsibilities, you will streamline processes and help protect the integrity of assessment materials.
3. Know the multi-factor authentication (MFA) process
Familiarise yourself with the MFA process required to access your awarding organisation accounts and systems. This helps ensure confidential information is never shared via unsecure channels. Remember: JCQ members will never ask you to share passwords or MFA codes over the phone or by email.
4. Protect the integrity of downloads
Exam papers and assessment materials will be available to download from your awarding organisation’s secure system 60 minutes before the start of the exam. Ensure everything is in place to maintain the integrity and security of electronic question papers throughout the downloading, printing and collating process
5. Be alert to phishing
Be cautious of unsolicited or unexpected emails, messages or calls, especially those requesting account credentials or personal details. Never approve or authenticate a login request that you did not initiate. Do not click on suspicious links, download attachments, or scan QR codes from unknown sources.

For further information and guidance, visit:
- JCQ’s guidance for schools, colleges and other educational establishments on cyber security
- National Cyber Security Centre guidance for schools and colleges
Download the ‘Stay Cyber Safe’ poster for centres [PDF].
