Preparing a portfolio of evidence in case exams cannot take place
In June 2022, it is our intention that all schools take exams where it is safe and permitted to do so. We know that exams are the fairest and most accurate way of assessing candidates’ performance. We have a package of measures to support schools as they prepare for exams. We will also be able to issue an exam grade to all students who have sat exams in at least one eligible component, if they miss other exams for an acceptable reason.
As explained on 30 September in countries and regions of countries, where exams cannot take place, we will ask schools to submit a portfolio of three substantial pieces of evidence for each student. This will be marked by Cambridge International examiners. The portfolio of evidence replaces the school-assessed grade approach.
Our guidance Collecting a portfolio of evidence for the June 2022 series (PDF, 417KB) explains the types of work that can be included in the portfolio and gives advice about when and how to gather this work. Given the uncertainty that still surrounds the pandemic, we recommend that schools have a portfolio in place for their students, in electronic form, by the start of the exam series.
Carrying forward marks on the portfolio of evidence route
Our guidance Carrying forward within the portfolio of evidence (PDF, 207KB) explains which kinds of assessments we will be able to carry forward within the portfolio of evidence route. The guidance document also explains the different approaches to carrying forward AS Level components to A Level when using the portfolio of evidence route.
Important: If we move you to the portfolio of evidence route then we will automatically move ‘best of both’ candidates to the staged option. If you have any candidates entered for Cambridge International AS & A Level Mathematics (9709) and/or Further Mathematics (9231) there may be more than one possible staged entry option which is suitable for your candidate(s). We have added information about this, and the steps you may need to take, on pages 4–5 of the ‘Carry forward within the portfolio of evidence route’ guide.
Information for parents and students
To support you if you need to move to the portfolio of evidence approach, we have published guidance for schools to share with students and their parents. This guidance (PDF, 105KB) explains what the portfolio of evidence is, what it can include, and how pieces of work in the portfolio will be marked by Cambridge International examiners.