Can candidates use the internet and/or personal devices during the timed test?

Internet access is generally not permitted during timed tests. However, software such as Adobe Creative Cloud may need an internet connection during use.  In such cases, the devices that the candidates are using must be checked before the exam to ensure the candidate does not have a final copy of the work they have planned already stored on the device. Personal devices must be securely stored between timed exam sessions to ensure that the candidates do not continue to work on their supporting studies.

Candidates must be monitored to check that work that is produced during the timed test is their own unaided work.

If candidates are using their own personal devices such as a drawing tablet, laptop or iPad, with work saved on it, it should be stored securely at the centre between exam sessions. 

For all candidates using software we recommend that they include screenshots of the layers, tools or filters they have used when putting together their supporting studies and we recommend that all sources are referenced. This includes websites and images that may have been used or any images, or processes that are part of the software. 

It is always a good idea to back up work to a school server or hard drive between sessions (in such cases personal devices can be used outside of the test period) in case of any technical issues. Are there materials or topics to avoid?

From 2025 you will no longer be required to submit hard copy work to Cambridge, however, it remains the centre’s responsibility to ensure that topics and materials used are appropriate.

The following are examples, this list is not exhaustive, and we may consider other instances at our discretion:

• Threatening, offensive or obscene material.
• Any examples or images including but not limited to sexually explicit images, abuse, torture, suffocation, self-harm are not permitted. 
• Although you are no longer required to send the work to Cambridge, we do not condone the use of any materials listed on the CITES (Convention on International Trade of Endangered Species) website.
• Additionally do not permit candidates to include the following examples: weapons, hypodermic needles, tattoo needles, animal skin, insects, reptile and/or bird’s eggs, barbed wire, razor blades, medicines in their work.

For more information, please refer to our Safeguarding policy. 

You are advised to contact Cambridge International if there is any doubt about the suitability of materials or themes.