What are the software requirements?

Our qualifications which require the use of computers have been written so that they do not specify any particular software. As an examination board we do not make any specific recommendations as to which software and hardware you should acquire as every school/centre has its own unique infrastructure. This is done so that schools can choose their software and hardware pieces that meets their personal circumstances and budget. However, it is important to note that any software you acquire must cover the requirements of the syllabus (allowing candidates to fully demonstrate the required syllabus skills) and be kept up to date (including its latest features and functions) so that candidates are being taught on the latest software for future careers.

Our advice remains that the best way to determine what software and hardware to use is for the specialist teacher to consult the syllabus and past papers, and to choose what they are familiar with and that allows the full requirements of the syllabus to be taught. However, to assist you in supporting your students, we have provided below an example list of software packages that are used at an educational and professional level and that allow the syllabus content to be taught.

This is not a recommendation that you purchase this specific software, but it may be a useful starting point for you to evaluate whether you wish to use this software to teach the course.

Please note that all software must be able to be used in an offline mode, as no internet access is allowed during the exam.