Online Rules, Technical Preparation and Appeals

Prepare the actual examination setup

Online EBOD uses the Speedwell eSystem with remote invigilation. Preparation has two separate goals: reliable access and compliance with examination rules. A fast computer does not excuse prohibited material, while an empty desk does not solve an unstable connection. Use the same room, device and network for the supplied connection test and the live sitting wherever possible.

EBO's published online instructions, version 1.1 of 17 November 2024, recommend a Windows 10 or Mac laptop or desktop with a webcam, microphone/audio functions and broadband. Tablets and mobile phones are not accepted examination devices. The recommended minimum connection speed is 1.5 Mbps, and the recommended display resolution is 1024 × 768 in 16-bit colour. The latest Chrome is required, including installation of the examination's proctoring extension. There is no published requirement here for macOS 12, 8 GB RAM or a 720p camera; adding such specifications would misrepresent the instructions.

EBO provides a compatibility test in the weeks before the examination. Follow the dates and steps actually sent to candidates. The public structure page does not establish a universal rehearsal exactly one or two weeks beforehand or an automatic no-refund ban for missing a rehearsal. Nevertheless, completing the supplied test promptly is sensible because institutional firewalls, browser permissions or administrator restrictions may need time to resolve.

Check that the device is connected to reliable power. Confirm camera, microphone and screen-sharing permissions, and remove settings that could interrupt the examination. If a shared home network is being used, arrange for other users to avoid using it during the sitting. Keep the examination links and identification accessible before check-in; the two parts have distinct links, so identify which opens the written section and which opens the clinical cases.

Permitted and prohibited material

The examination is closed book and conducted in English. The candidate must remain alone, show photo identification and demonstrate the examination station through the webcam. A second screen is prohibited. Reference books, dictionaries, calculators, prepared notes, translation tools and unauthorised communication devices are prohibited. Google Translate must be deactivated. Headphones and watches must be removed, and smart or AI-enabled devices that allow retrieval or communication are prohibited.

Blank paper and a pen are permitted. Used sheets must be destroyed at the end of each written and clinical-case section. A drink and snack are also permitted. These specific permissions matter: a blanket claim that all paper, pens or food are forbidden would be wrong. Distinguish blank working paper from prepared notes, and do not retain written reconstructions of questions after the examination.

A workstation check should therefore establish identity, privacy, allowed equipment and the absence of reference material. Follow the proctor's instructions rather than assuming that an invented room-scan sequence, clothing rule or desk-lamp restriction appears in the public policy. Do not capture, copy or distribute examination questions, whether by screenshot, recording or written notes.

Interruptions and presence

Webcam visibility, screen-sharing and audible monitoring must continue. If a connection breaks, the proctor may ask the candidate to refresh; the examination clock continues. EBO states that a technical disconnection lasting more than five minutes invalidates the examination. A planned internet speed is not protection against a failed router, depleted battery or missing permissions, which is why practical testing matters.

If difficulty occurs, tell the proctor that you are contacting EBO and email EBO with the issue. When connectivity returns, inform EBO directly and re-access the examination using the supplied link. Report what happened and when, rather than assuming that the clock will be paused or extra time granted. The policy does not promise that EBO can resolve every candidate-side technical problem.

One toilet visit of up to five minutes is permitted only if absolutely necessary. Notify the proctor by raising a hand or using the chat; the clock continues during the visit. This is not an extra scheduled rest interval within each timed section. Arrange foreseeable needs before starting and seek any required medical adjustment through the proper advance process.

Adjustments, misconduct and appeals

EBO's reasonable-adjustments policy asks candidates to contact EBO at application with appropriate supporting evidence. Requirements depend on the condition. For dyslexia, the published policy specifies a full psychological assessment rather than an online screening test, assessment at age 16 or older and a report within 26 months of the examination. Do not substitute a universal rule that every medical certificate must be less than twelve months old. Temporary needs, including breastfeeding arrangements, should also be raised through the policy's stated route.

Alleged rule breaking is investigated using the proctor's report and evidence. The published procedure provides an opportunity for the candidate to respond, and the Executive Committee determines sanctions. Disqualification is a stated consequence of rule breaches; a permanent ban and regulator report are not automatic consequences for every allegation. Learn the actual procedure without presenting speculation as an examination regulation.

The published appeals window is three months from the examination, not seven to ten days after the result. EBO states a response period of 30 days from receipt. Candidates should read the grounds and submission requirements in the official appeals procedure and keep contemporaneous evidence of an alleged irregularity. A result breakdown can be requested through the National Delegate. This is distinct from assuming that every candidate automatically receives a detailed portal transcript.

EBO's current information gives online results four weeks after the sitting; onsite results are released the following day. An online candidate should not apply the onsite timetable to an autumn remote examination. Diploma arrangements are explained in the eligibility section and depend on specialist registration as well as examination success.

Official references: online instructions, reasonable adjustments and appeals. Read the instructions sent for the specific sitting as well as these dated public policies.