Ofqual launches consultation to protect standards in on-screen exams

The consultation, titled ‘Regulating on-screen assessments’, builds on joint research by Ofqual and the Department for Education.  The research explores the opportunities, risks and practical challenges of introducing on-screen exams in high-stakes qualifications. This work has highlighted potential benefits for students, whilst also recognising the need for careful oversight.  

Under the proposals, the four exam boards delivering GCSEs, AS and A levels in England, would be allowed to introduce up to two new on-screen specifications each, subject to Ofqual accreditation. The most popular subjects — those with over 100,000 entries nationally — would not be permitted as on-screen exams at this stage.  

Students would not be allowed to use their own personal devices for exams. On-screen and paper versions would be offered as completely separate qualifications with different questions to maintain standards and transparency.  

The consultation will run until 5th March 2026, and responses will inform Ofqual’s final approach to regulating on-screen assessments.