Computer based assessments (CBA) Student FAQs
Click on the FAQs below to answer your questions about computer based assessments.
What are Computer Based Assessments (CBAs)?
Why is the AAT developing CBAs?
How much do CBAs cost?
Are CBAs easier or harder than the paper based assessments?
Will there be practice papers available before I sit the real assessment?
How will competency be measured in the assessment?
Can I use my own calculator?
What about rough paper?
Where and when can I sit the assessment?
Can I sit my assessment with different training providers?
Can I sit both the paper and CBA for the same unit at the same time?
How do I enter for CBA?
What are Computer Based Assessments (CBAs)?
Computer based assessments are an electronic equivalent to paper based exams.
Why is the AAT developing CBAs?
We want you to have more flexibility with your exam timetables. You will be able to sit assessments at a training provider virtually throughout the year. The timetable for CBAs will be set by individual training providers based on the teaching time and available resources.
How much do CBAs cost?
The fees are the same as paper based exams. From September 2010 the fee is £30 for each Level 2 assessment, £33 for each Level 3 assessment and £35 for Level 4. Please note that training providers may charge an administration fee in addition to the assessment fee if you are an external candidate or re-sitting an assessment.
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Are CBAs easier or harder than the paper based assessments?
Neither, as both types of assessments test the same areas to the same standard and deliver comparable results.
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Will there be practice papers available before I sit the real assessment?
Yes, there is at least one practice paper available for each unit. The practice paper helps you familiarise yourself with the software and question types. You will also find the past paper based assessments are useful study and revision aids.
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How will competency be measured in the assessment?
You need to complete all tasks and achieve between 60-70% in each section, and 70% in the paper overall to be assessed as competent in the assessment.
Can I use my own calculator?
Yes, the rules on calculators are the same as for the paper based exams. Calculators must not be programmable. Calculators should not be able to store data, text or alphanumeric formulas. Calculators should not emit audible tones, be able to print, be programmable from other sources or be a function of a personal organiser, watch or mobile phone. Solar powered calculators are used at the candidate’s own risk.
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What about rough paper?
The training provider can provide you with rough paper in the room or white boards to work on, but you must not take any of your own paper into the room.
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Where and when can I sit the assessment?
Please speak to your tutor or exams officer at the earliest opportunity about making arrangements.
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Can I sit my assessment with different training providers?
Some training providers will take external candidates so you may be able to sit your CBA at a different provider, but you may need to pay an additional administration fee to the provider. You will need to contact the training provider directly to find out if they will accept external candidates and what fees to pay.
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Can I sit both the paper and CBA for the same unit at the same time?
Although it is not possible to have multiple entries for the same unit at the same time, you can sit the CBA fairly quickly several times in a row if required. However, if you enter for the paper based assessment, you can only sit the CBA if you are withdrawn from the paper and this can only be done before the paper assessment closing date. So you will need to agree with your training provider which method of assessment you are going to undertake in advance.
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How do I enter for CBA?
Entry for CBA is only available through your tuition provider, so please speak to them as soon as possible about this exciting opportunity.