Test Day

It is important to read this information to ensure your test day runs smoothly. The information below outlines the test centre experience. 


UCAT Fitness to Test Policy

If you attend your test you are declaring that you are fit to test. If you are aware of anything that might affect your performance on the day, you should not sit the test. This applies even if you fall ill or experience issues on the day of your test.

If you are not fit to test refer to this advice.

 

UCAT Test Rules and Test Problems

Read the UCAT Test Rules before your test. These also explain what to do if you experience a problem during testing.

You are expected to meet minimum standards of acceptable behaviour during testing. The Misconduct Policy deals with cases of suspected misconduct and other unacceptable behaviour.


Photo Identification

When you check-in at the test centre you must present photographic ID from the list of permitted ID, or you will not be allowed to test. Please refer to the Photo ID Policy.


Test centre check-in process

Please arrive 15 minutes before your appointment time to complete the check-in process and bring the following: 

  • Photographic ID that meets the Photo ID Policy
  • Your appointment confirmation email from Pearson VUE (electronic or printed) 

If you miss your appointment for any reason, your test fee will not be refunded. This applies in cases of illness, family emergency, accident, arrest, transport problems and security alert as well as forgetfulness, lateness, and failure to present permitted ID. You will have to pay again to book a new appointment.

During check-in:

  • Your photo ID will be checked and staff will take a digital photograph of you.

  • You will be asked to read the UCAT Test Rules and sign to confirm you understand them. 

  • You will be asked to store personal belongings in a designated area before you enter the test room.  There are exceptions permitted for religious, cultural and medical apparel.  For clarity, nothing is allowed into the testing room apart from the indoor clothes you are wearing, your photo ID, permitted comfort aids and approved access arrangements.   

  • Food and drink (including water) is not permitted in the testing room (unless approved as an access arrangement) as it may damage technical equipment.  If brought it must be stored in a designated area and used outside the testing room.

  • Staff will conduct a routine visual inspection of your clothing, hands/arms, ears (if covered) and any comfort aids or approved access arrangements. This is for security purposes.

If you have any concerns over the check-in process please contact Pearson VUE Customer Services at least 5 working days before your test. 

Test centre receptions are restricted to test takers only for security reasons. Waiting areas are not provided for anyone accompanying you to the test centre. 


Test centre experience and environment

After check-in is completed, you will be taken into the testing room and allocated a desk space at which you will find a PC, keyboard and mouse.

You will be given a laminated notebook (A4 in size) and a pen. If you require replacements hold the notebook or pen in the air to request one from the invigilator.

Normally there will be other people taking tests in the same room. There may be limited disturbance as test takers arrive and leave or staff assist them. You may request earplugs to block out noise.

On occasion there may be routine testing of fire alarm systems during your test. Signage in test centres should advise you if this is likely to occur. In the event of there being a genuine incident test centre staff will advise you how to evacuate the building safely.

Once the invigilator has launched your test, you are under exam conditions. For purposes of security, you will be monitored at all times; both audio and video may be recorded. 

If you need a break (e.g. to use the toilets), raise your hand to notify the invigilator. Unless you have been approved for pause-the-clock breaks, the test cannot be paused. You will lose time when out of the room. You may want to take breaks between subtests to limit impact on test time.

After completing the test, raise your hand. The invigilator will end your test and escort you from the room to collect your score report.

Please take the Test Centre Tour and watch this video to see what a UK Pearson VUE test centre looks like and what to expect on arrival.