The demand for secure and efficient in-centre exams is growing, as are the evolving needs of both awarding bodies and candidates.  Awarding bodies must be confident that the venue they use not only accommodates the required number of candidates, but also supports reasonable adjustments and the one-on-one invigilation these require.  Candidates also deserve to sit their exam in a comfortable, well-lit space, with the facilities necessary to support their needs. 

But even with the right space and intentions, inefficiencies in exam delivery can quickly undermine the candidate’s experience, as well as the integrity of the assessment itself.  From unclear processes at check-in, to inconsistent invigilation standards, small operational gaps can create delays, confusion, and unnecessary stress for everyone involved. 

We are closing these gaps in efficiency with the opening of our new test centre in the heart of London.  With state-of-the-art facilities and high-level security, our flagship test centre provides the highest standards of assessment integrity.  Before looking at how we are addressing these challenges in our own venue, let’s look at the broader impact of inefficiency in exams. 

The Hidden Costs of Inefficiency 

Inefficiency in exams can cause a number of different challenges which negatively impact exam days for both students, invigilators and institutions.  One of the most common and disruptive consequences is time loss.   

When key processes like ID verification and security checks rely on manual systems or unclear procedures, delays can build up.  This can slow down pre-exam checks and push back exam start times, undermining the professionalism and perceived integrity of the assessment, and potentially resulting in reputational damage for the awarding body.  

Inefficiency resulting from overcomplicated and un-streamlined processes can also result in technical disruption, something which contributes greatly to a stressful environment – especially since candidates are often fully reliant on technology to do their exam.   

This stress can be particularly harmful for candidates who are already under pressure.  Delays and confusion before an exam can interrupt focus, increase anxiety, and negatively influence performance.  In contrast, a calm and efficient environment helps candidates to feel composed and confident, setting them up for success.

On top of this, it’s important to acknowledge that some test centres may compromise on security for the sake of speed.  Corners may be cut when it comes to ID checks, metal detector checks, room scans, or invigilator vigilance, so that candidates can be moved into an exam quickly.  This creates opportunities for malpractice, undermining trust in the results and risking the exam’s integrity. 

Why Security Matters More Than Ever 

Security should always be at the forefront of anyone’s mind when planning and executing an exam.  For both remote and in-centre assessments, there are a number of security risks which need to be looked out for, but the risks associated with in-person exams come with their own specific challenges.  If handled poorly, security checks and processes at test centres can disrupt an entire room of candidates and delay the examination process, while remote exam delays typically only disrupt a handful of people. 

In a recent piece, we explored the challenges of verifying candidates’ identities, highlighting extreme cases of identity fraud – such as a man in Kolkata dressing up as his girlfriend to sit her exam.  This is a clear example of why security needs to be taken so seriously, as some candidates really will do anything to secure themselves a better grade.

With that in mind, it’s important that test centres have top-tier security measures, as well as clear procedures to follow when an incident occurs.  All venue staff should be trained to manage such incidents confidently and consistently.

These safeguards will be of particular concern to awarding bodies granting qualifications with high commercial or reputational significance, though it’s a factor that should be a top priority for all assessments.

Designed for Efficiency  

We have designed our new London test centre with efficiency and security at the forefront, creating an environment where awarding organisations can be confident in the integrity of their assessments, and candidates can remain calm and focus on their performance. 

Robust ID verification protocols and secure entry processes, including metal detectors and controlled access points, ensure that only authorised individuals can enter the exam space.  The venue itself is also monitored by CCTV and staffed by our own VICTVS staff and invigilators, who are experts in both exam procedures and candidate care.  By having complete management of both the building and venue staff, we also remove any opportunity for third-party miscommunication or corruption.

By having robust procedures, a streamlined entry process and expert staff, we can support awarding organisations in delivering high-integrity assessments, and give candidates the best environment to succeed.

Final Thoughts 

Inefficiencies in exams do more than just cause frustration; they compromise the integrity of assessments and create avoidable stress for candidates already under pressure. 

Security should never be treated as a mere box-ticking exercise.  Cutting corners to save time can lead to serious consequences, including identity fraud and cheating.  True efficiency isn’t about rushing through processes – it’s about ensuring they are clear, consistently followed, and designed with both integrity and the well-being of candidates in mind.

We have designed our new London test centre to close the operational gaps that can undermine even the best intentions.  By combining high-level security protocols with streamlined procedures, we aim to set a new standard – one where awarding organisations can trust in the process, and candidates can focus on performing at their best. 

To find our more about our London venue, get in touch here.