Examination Policies
The Royal College of Anaesthetists (RCoA) sets out a range of regulations and policies to ensure its examinations are delivered fairly, securely, and consistently. The following documents provide key guidance on candidate conduct, feedback, and post-examination processes, supporting transparency and maintaining the integrity of the assessment process.
RCoA Examination Policies
The RCoA Examination Regulations (April 2026) provide a unified framework for all College-delivered exams, covering the full assessment lifecycle from eligibility and applications to conduct, marking, and results. They set out candidate responsibilities, including rules on misconduct and exam conditions, and outline how exams are designed, assessed, and quality assured to ensure fairness and consistency. The regulations also include processes for feedback, results review, complaints, and appeals, supporting transparency and maintaining the integrity of the examination process.
This policy sets out strict rules on the use of electronic devices in examinations to prevent cheating and disruption. Unauthorised devices are prohibited, and breaches may result in investigation, withheld results, or penalties including disqualification.
Electronic Devices, Mobile Phones, Smartwatches and Medical Devices Policy
This policy ensures candidates with disabilities or health conditions can access fair adjustments to examinations without compromising standards. Adjustments are considered case-by-case based on evidence and are designed to remove disadvantage rather than provide advantage.
This policy explains how candidates receive structured feedback alongside their results to support understanding and improvement. Feedback includes performance data and, where applicable, examiner comments, but results are final and not subject to remarking.
This policy defines misconduct in examinations, including cheating, unauthorised communication, and misuse of exam materials, and outlines how cases are investigated. Proven misconduct may result in penalties ranging from warnings to voided results or exclusion from future exams.
This policy outlines how candidates can raise concerns about exam delivery and formally appeal outcomes. Appeals are only accepted on specific grounds, such as procedural error, and are reviewed through a structured and independent process.