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Exam resources

Everything you need to know about preparing for CIPS exams.

Preparation is key to exam success

This page provides information that will help you prepare for all types of exam questions. The modules you study will be assessed by either Objective Response (OR) exams or Constructed Response (CR) exam formats.

Objective Response (OR)

OR exams are graded as:

  • Pass mark 70%

Constructed Response (CR)

CR exams are graded as:

  • 50% Pass
  • 60% Merit
  • 75% Distinction

In OR exams questions you will select a response from a list of possible answers. You will find these types of exams across all our qualifications.

In CR exam questions, you'll be expected to create or construct your answer in an essay style or case study style. You'll find this format of exam in our Diploma level qualifications.

 

CIPS Computer based exams

Firstly, get a clear understanding of what to expect on exam day. We recommend you familiarise yourself with our computer-based exam platform ‘Testreach’ by watching this video.

For more information about computer based exams, please review our Computer based exam guide

 

Here’s your sample exam questions and other resources for each module.

Select the qualification you’re studying and find all your study resources in one place.

 

Constructed Response Exam resources

Watch these videos to familiarise yourself with our exam formats and platform.

CIPS Constructed Response Exams Guide

How to prepare for CIPS Constructed Response exams

Exam preparation guide

 

Objective Response Exam resources

Watch these videos to familiarise yourself with our exam formats and platform.

CIPS Objective Response Exams Guide

How to prepare for CIPS Objective Response exams

Exam preparation guides

 

Top tips for revision

  • Manage your time effectively
    It's a good idea to set out a timetable for your study. Try writing down when your exams are scheduled and block enough time out for each exam. Or plan in your assessment submissions so that you can work out how much time it will take to research, write and edit. Make sure you include scheduled breaks and that you stick to your plan!
  • Find a study environment that works for you
    It could be a tidy quiet space or a cluttered space with music, just as long as you're comfortable and can work well.
  • Learn as you study, don’t cram at the end
    Try to understand the information as you cover the topic and make linkages at the time.
  • Write your own notes
    Re-writing your notes and using your own words and concepts puts information into terms you understand.
  • Study together
    Forming a study group with friends lets you share what you've learnt and gives you a chance to ask or answer questions to support your learning process.
  • Use your senses
    Visualising your notes in picture format sometimes helps to form linkages in information, aiding recall in exams. Also, reciting information while you're writing it or after you've written it involves another sense when learning.
  • Teach someone else
    Once you've learnt a topic, test yourself by teaching the topic to someone who doesn’t know anything about it, like a family member. This will help you to understand if you know the subject as well as you thought and whether there are any gaps to review.
  • Keep healthy
    When studying and on exam day drink plenty of water and eat healthy, nutritious food and snacks to maintain your energy levels and focus.
  • Plan exam day
    Make sure you know what you need to take along with you, double check the location and time, and plan your journey so you're well prepared and not panicking on the day.
 

How to deal with exam nerves

  • Take deep breaths and stretch. This can help clear your mind and relieve any build-up of tension.
  • Eat properly before your exam to keep your sugars and energy levels up. Make sure to keep hydrated too!
  • Go in prepared. If you know what to expect, it can have a positive effect on your state of mind. Have a look at sample papers and even test yourself under exam conditions.
  • Remember, you’re not alone. Seek advice from our CIPS social media groups on Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter.

Need some more help? Watch our video on YouTube on how to tackle your exams with our techniques and useful study tips.

 

Useful links