There are many ways students can take exams, from traditional, in-person papers to digital, open‑book formats.
At the time of writing (August 2025), students cannot take their GCSE exams online. That said, exam boards such as AQA and OCR are exploring the future possibility of GCSE online exams, and pilot schemes are already underway.
This guide will help parents and pupils understand how online exams work in their current form.
What are online exams?
Online exams are assessments carried out on a digital platform via a computer. They can be conducted remotely from home or on school grounds.
While there is currently no approved, fully online GSCE, schools may run some assessments or provide exam‑related materials digitally.
For iGCSEs the story is different. Out of the 70 subjects available, some can now be taken fully online through remote invigilation (with the exam paper on screen), or in paper format with live cameras and screen monitoring.
This means that while GCSEs are still paper based, iGCSEs do offer genuine online exam options in certain subjects, which is an important distinction for students exploring alternative routes.
In the future, qualifying GCSE exams may be offered on school grounds via computers rather than pen‑and‑paper. In the meantime, some schools have subject‑specific components of GCSE courses that take place online. For example, computing and ICT courses often include coursework that must be completed digitally, sometimes under exam conditions in school.
At university level, online exams are more established , particularly for humanities subjects. These may be ‘open‑book’ exams where notes are allowed, but they are rare. For those wondering how to take a GCSE outside of school, online mocks can be a useful part of preparation, even though the final qualification must still be sat in person.
How do online exams work?
If your child’s school or provider sets up an online exam, most likely a mock or progress test, they will usually share full details about the process. If you haven’t received any information, contact your Head of Year or the relevant subject teacher.
The exam is typically accessed via a secure platform such as Blackboard, Exam.net, Inspera, or even Google Forms for smaller tests. In some cases, students might be asked to install screen‑monitoring software or conduct a room scan via webcam to confirm they are working alone.
Pupils may need their microphone turned on and could be recorded for invigilation purposes. Exam formats vary depending on the subject – for example, Language exams may include a one‑to‑one speaking assessment, or Science mocks might involve a whole class on a video call, completing a past paper on screen.
Why do some schools offer (mock) online exams?
GCSE exams online, even in mock form, have gained significant interest in recent years. Key benefits include:
- Inclusivity – Supporting students with mobility or medical issues, anxiety, or those unable to attend in person.
- Practicality – Reducing pressure on overcrowded exam halls.
- Preparation for the future – Digital assessments are becoming the norm so introducing them early helps familiarise pupils with how online exams work outside of school as well.
- Flexibility – Online tests can be scheduled more frequently or to fit student timetables.
- Mimics traditional exams – The timed format still allows pupils to practise pacing themselves effectively.
- Comfortable environment – For those who can take the exam at home, this can reduce nerves and help anxious students feel more settled as they get used to exam formats.
- Focuses on digital skills – Navigating online platforms, typing answers, and using on‑screen tools are all useful in both education and employment. Many pupils of today will be more familiar with using tablets or laptops as well.
- Reduces exam anxiety via repetition – Even though it’s a different format, repeated exposure to exam‑style questions under timed conditions helps students build confidence.
What are the limitations of online exams?
- Not equivalent to official GCSEs which remain paper‑based and in person.
- Potential distractions – Phones, notifications, or household noise can impact concentration.
- Greater cheating temptation – Even with invigilation software, it can be easier for pupils to look up answers, not accurately preparing them for being in the physical exam hall.
- Tech reliance – Internet dropouts, software crashes, and power cuts can cause disruption.
- Typing vs handwriting – GCSE online exam mocks don’t build handwriting stamina, a key skill for real GCSEs. Students who type faster than they write may struggle to finish handwritten papers on time.
Will GCSEs ever be available online?
The idea of a fully GCSE online exam is promising, but still in development. Pilot schemes by OCR and AQA highlight potential, but significant challenges remain:
- Ensuring consistent and secure school technology.
- Reliable anti-cheating measures.
- Equal access for all students, regardless of home internet or device quality.
The UK government is currently working on new legislation to tackle digital inclusion, including ending postcode lotteries for schools’ access to technology. Until these challenges are resolved, all school exams including SATs, GCSEs, and A‑levels will continue to be sat in person.
How TLC LIVE can help
While you can’t yet sit a fully GCSE online exam for your formal qualification, you are able to for some iGCSEs, and online mocks are one of the best ways to prepare. They build confidence, identify areas for improvement, and reduce stress before the real thing.
TLC LIVE Online School can help your child prepare effectively – whether for in‑school GCSE mocks or for students wondering how to take a GCSE at home or outside of school.
Get in touch today to find out more about our online school and how we support students during their exam years.