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Formal Examination Information

Support for you during the Formal Examination Period 

Once you start your exam, you can contact us 24/7 via +61 7 4631 2285 or 1800 007 252 (within Australia) to query the content, get technical support or ask any other exam-related questions.

Formal Examinations

Details of your examinations for this semester can be found in your Formal Exam Schedule in your Student Centre, which will be made available to students 6 weeks prior to the Formal Examination Period.

These exams do not require your physical attendance at a campus or examination centre. Further information regarding the Formal Examination Periods are listed in the USQ Academic Calendar and Important Dates page.

Preparing for your Formal Examinations

You are responsible for ensuring you complete your examinations under appropriate conditions. Consider the following when preparing your space:

  • Ensure you have a reliable device (laptop or computer) and internet connection.
  • Ensure you have all the required hardware to complete your exam (e.g. printer, scanner).
  • Test all devices and equipment prior to your exam.
  • Avoid using someone else's computer. If you must, try to set up your own account on the device to protect your work. You can also use computers on USQ campuses where you are able to login to your own account.
  • Have all the items you require to complete your exam ready (e.g. calculator, translation dictionary etc.).
  • Test comfort levels before you start (e.g. lighting, temperature, seating).
  • Find a private space and remove distractions (e.g. turn off your mobile phone and television).
  • The Library have resources on exam preparation and don't forget we have a range of support services to support your wellbeing as well.
  • Ensure you are aware of how to maintain your academic integrity during your Formal Examinations.

For more information, read our frequently asked questions (FAQs) below for general information and technical support.

How to video
Accessing your Formal Examination
Discover how to access your exam on StudyDesk during the Formal Examination Period
Watch now

Technical support FAQs

If your internet drops out during your exam, you can navigate back into your exam and continue from your last saved response. In most instances clicking the refresh button on your browser will re-load your exam. You should make note of any responses entered on the page (eg take a screenshot and save to your desktop or copy your responses to a blank document), then try to reconnect.

If you cannot re-enter your exam immediately, you must contact USQ for support within 15 minutes of losing access to your online exam, using the contact information below. Be sure to take a screenshot at the time you encounter the issue.

A member of the support team will verify your drop out and allow you access back into your exam. The questions you have already answered will be saved and you will continue from your first attempt.

Students may be granted a second attempt if necessary but will not be granted multiple additional attempts.

Ensure you have carefully reviewed all the Technical FAQs below prior to taking your online exams to assist in mitigating issues as far as possible.

24/7 support is available during the Formal Examination Period 

Urgent enquiries:

Ph: +61 7 4631 2285

Ph: 1800 007 252 (within Australia only)

Other enquiries:

For general or non-urgent queries please phone during business hours or email assessment.support@usq.edu.au and one of our team will be with you as soon as possible.

If you are required to submit a PDF document for your Online Exam or Take Home Exam there are many options.

If you do not need to include any handwritten workings or notes:

  • Submit your examination as a Word document.

If you need to include any handwritten workings or notes the methods below may assist you:

  • Use a scanner or photocopier scanner to scan your handwritten workings to a PDF file.
  • Use the OneDrive App on your phone to scan a document – Watch the instructional videos below:

USQ Students are able to access OneDrive via Office 365- Watch the video on how to download the app.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D6ilUXRi-T0

 

  • Use a smartphone app such as Genius Scan to scan your document.
  • Use the notes app on your iOS device to scan and email to yourself as a PDF.
  • Use your smartphone to take photos of your handwritten solutions, email to yourself or save the images to a One Drive/Google Docs area, then copy and paste the images from the drive or your email to a Word file in the correct order of the exam questions, resize each image to a single page A4 and then save as a PDF file

Other important tips:

  • If you are scanning workings or notes, write your name, the course code/name and page number at the top of each page before scanning.
  • Use a black pen to write your exam and not a pencil as pencil does not provide good contrast when scanning.
  • Ensure you use good lighting to take your photos or scan images, and avoid shadows if possible.
  • Check the final image quality.
  • Test this process before you start your exam.
  • Where instructed, compile to a single file with the specified naming convention e.g. Course Code_Full Name e.g. CMG1001_Michael Jackson.pdf
  • Submit your PDF file/s to the online exam area on StudyDesk - Do not email files directly to your lecturer.
  • Ensure you have uploaded the correct files and that all necessary pages have been included. 

Please be sure to submit PDF files, not pictures/images (i.e. Do not submit the jpg image from your scanner or camera).

If your course requires you to use other file types, ensure you follow these directions. If you are not sure about the file type required for your course/s. please check with your course examiner.

If you experience any technical issues with creating and uploading your documents during your exam, you must contact Assessment Support immediately by telephone where possible. 

24/7 support is available during the Formal Examination Period.

For urgent enquiries phone:
Ph: +61 7 4631 2285
Ph: 1800 007 252 (within Australia only)

    If you encounter a serious disruption that is outside your control and you believe this has impaired your performance, you may apply for Special Consideration.

    Examples of a serious disruption may include a:

    • power outage
    • internet outage
    • medical emergency
    • evacuation or other emergency.

    To apply, you must:

    1. Complete the Special Consideration Application form under 'Assessments and results'.
    2. Submit the completed application with supporting documentation no later than five University business days after the closing date and time of the exam.
    3. Your special consideration application form must be submitted with supporting documentation. Examples might include verification from your power or internet service provider, medical certificate, emergency services report or other third-party verification.

    Students affected by compelling circumstances occurring prior to commencing their Formal Examination, should apply for a Deferred Examination (ensuring appropriate supporting documentation is provided) and should not attempt the exam.

    Students cannot claim Special Consideration for circumstances or conditions that are the consequences of their own actions or inaction.  If you would like further advice, please contact your support team.

    Yes, if your exam time limit expires and you have not submitted your answers, those answers you have already entered or uploaded will be saved and auto submitted.
    Yes, please retain your workings and calculations until your grades are released. You may require these in the event of a technical issue, where your scanned document is not legible, or where you wish to seek a review of your final grade.

    USQ does recommend some minimum hardware and software requirements for students.

    You will need a computer/laptop and internet connection to access and submit the examination in your StudyDesk course/s.

    You may also require a printer, scanner or mobile device to capture and upload hand-written workings. Check your StudyDesk for further details.

    If you forget your password you can reset it yourself any time.
    Allow pop-up windows in your browser prior to commencing your Formal Examinations. Detailed instructions for allowing pop-ups on your specific internet browser are easily available over the internet.

    Clearing your cache, cookies and internet history may improve the performance of your internet browser.

    If you are experiencing any difficulties with your system prior to commencing your Formal Examination, it is recommended to clear the cache on your browser.

    Find out how to clear your cache for:

    Prior to completing your Formal Examination:

    1. You should know what StudyDesk is, and how to navigate it.
    2. A link to your StudyDesk can be found within UConnect, this is where you will access your Formal Examination.
    3. Prior to completing your Formal Examination, check USQ’s recommended configuration settings for your computer.
    4. Ensure you have completed the mandatory Academic Integrity Training for students. This is available as a StudyDesk course that is linked on your Assessment page.  

    You can access your exam in your course StudyDesk.

    Before you start, it is recommended that you log out of your StudyDesk on all other devices prior to starting your exam (mobile phone, tablet, other computers).

    1. Login to UConnect > access the relevant StudyDesk course on your preferred device (e.g. Computer or Laptop).
    2. Go to the Navigation menu on the left, and click on ‘Assessment’.
    3. Scroll down the Assessment page to locate your exam and click the relevant exam link.
    4. Carefully read the instructions provided.
    5. Commence your exam.
    6. Complete/Submit your exam within the set time frames.

    If you have any problems accessing your exam, phone your SRO for support immediately. Ph: +61 7 4631 2285 or  Ph: 1800 007 252 (within Australia only).

    If you are experiencing slow internet, the below may assist in improving the speed within your home.

    Having other household members using streaming or gaming services while you are completing online study, may impact your experience.

    Check if other family/household members are using the internet prior to taking your exam

    (Note: This could be hard connected by Ethernet cable OR by Wi-Fi)

    • Desktop computers
    • Laptop computers
    • Smart phones
    • Smart televisions
    • Tablets
    • Gaming consoles
    • Google Home mini or other smart speakers

    Ask if they can switch to using their mobile data or wait until after you have completed your exam.

    Check if you are running multiple programs needing internet connection

    Check all of your devices and close all other running programs, for example email, music streaming etc.

    • If other applications/programs are needed, perhaps consider if they all need to be open especially ones that are computer intensive

    Other things to consider

    Check your modem is turned on and is connected successfully to your Internet Service Provider (ISP).

    • Do not wait until the last minute to commence or submit your exam. Plan for possible technical issues, to allow you time to find and fix the issue and get back online.
    • If you have problems connecting to the internet, check with your Internet Service Provider (ISP) outages page.

    Examples:

    • To find the best setup for Wi-Fi and ethernet cabling for your home network, consult your Internet Service Provider (ISP) for further advice on in-home optimisation.

    Note: It is your responsibility to know how to check and use your modem. If you need additional support to understand your modem prior to taking your exam, you will need to contact your ISP support staff.

     

    Students who do not have access to a reliable device or internet connection in their own home, may access the USQ Computer Labs during the Examination Period to complete their Online and Take Home Exams.

    Note: Device numbers are limited. You will need to allow ample time to access a device.

    Note: Invigilated assessments must be completed in a private space with no other persons. Please ensure you familiarise yourself with the Assessment Types Schedule, and that you are aware of the requirements in your course.

    You can access any printed or written materials and calculator whilst completing your exam.

    You should check on your StudyDesk for each course, for specific instructions. Use of online textbooks, StudyDesk materials and other resources may also be required/recommended for your course.

    If you require further advice on what resources you need to access during your exam, contact your course examiner at least 2 weeks prior to commencing your exam.

    Finally, you should be aware of USQ’s expectations for academic integrity as they apply to your examination.

    Online Exams in StudyDesk have an auto save function built in and saves every 2 minutes.

    There is no ‘Save’ button within the online exam. Questions are marked as ‘saved’ once you navigate to the next page.

    Yes. If you are required to type a written response in your online exam, there is a spell check function.
    No. If you are required to type a written response in your online exam, there is no word count feature.

    Your responses to questions are saved when you move between pages of the exam, though many types of question, such as short-answer or multiple-choice, will save your work in progress every two minutes. Note however that questions which require you to upload files are only saved once you move to the next page of the quiz.

    If you experience an internet outage and you continue working while your device is not connected to the internet, your answers will not be auto saved. It is imperative that you monitor your internet connection during your exam.  If you are typing lengthy answers you should enter these into the online exam, but may also like to regularly save a copy of your responses locally in a word document.

     

    Yes. Our assessment support team will be available during all examination opening and closing windows, to provide assistance for any urgent technical issues you experience.

    You are required to phone within 15 minutes of experiencing technical issues or dropouts during your exam.

    24/7 support is available during the Formal Examination Period

    Urgent enquiries:

    Ph: +61 7 4631 2285

    Ph: 1800 007 252 (within Australia only)

    Other enquiries:

    For general or non-urgent queries please phone during business hours or email assessment.support@usq.edu.au and one of our team will be with you as soon as possible.

    You must report technical issues within 15 minutes of their occurrence when taking your exam.

    If you have been unable to access and complete your exam at all during the 48 hour time frame provided, you will need to phone Assessment Support urgently for advice.

    Confirmation from your Power or Internet service provider would be required if a severe outage occurred on your grid or network.

    Ensure you complete your exam well within the closing date and time.  This will allow you time to resolve any issues before the timeframe closes.  Be sure to contact the University if you require assistance. 

    24/7 support is available during the Formal Examination Period 

    Urgent enquiries:

    Ph: +61 7 4631 2285

    Ph: 1800 007 252 (within Australia only)

    Other enquiries:

    For general or non-urgent queries please phone during business hours or email assessment.support@usq.edu.au and one of our team will be with you as soon as possible.

    General information FAQs

    You can query the content of your exam if you believe there is an error or omission.

    Please phone Assessment Support immediately if you need to ask any questions relating to your exam and our support team will provide you with further guidance.

    24/7 support is available during the Formal Examination Period 

    Urgent enquiries:

    Ph: +61 7 4631 2285

    Ph: 1800 007 252 (within Australia only)

    Other enquiries:

    For general or non-urgent queries please phone during business hours or email assessment.support@usq.edu.au and one of our team will be with you as soon as possible.

    Your Formal Exam Schedule details the type of exams you have been set for each of your courses and the timeframes in which they must be completed and submitted.

    To access your Formal Exam Schedule:

    1. Log into UConnect.
    2. Select 'Student Centre'.
    3. Select the 'Exam' tile.
    4. Select the 'Formal Exam Schedule' menu item.
    5. Select each course to view specific instructions relating to the type of exam you have been assigned.
    6. Use the scroll bar located on the right of the screen to move down the page to view all details.

    If you have any questions, the iconnect team and your Student Relationship Officers are here to support you on Live Chat and Zoom Monday to Thursday 8am – 8pm, Fridays 8am – 5pm and from 12pm – 5pm on weekends.

    No, you do not need to travel to an exam centre or a campus for your Formal Examinations in 2022. Exams will be conducted online in 2022.

    Be sure to check your course StudyDesk for details on how to access and submit each of your assessment items.

    The type of examination you are required to complete has been set within your course.

    You must check your Formal Exam Schedule and course StudyDesk for the full details of your exam. You should also familiarise yourself with the Assessment Types Schedule.

     If you have any questions, the iconnect team and your Student Relationship Officers are here to support you on Live Chat and Zoom Monday to Thursday 8am – 8pm, Fridays 8am – 5pm and from 12pm – 5pm on weekends.

    Please check your Formal Exam Schedule for details on the opening and closing date and time of your exam. You must ensure you have completed and submitted the exam by the closing date and time.

    • Once an online exam closes, you will no longer be able to access it.
    • Take Home Exams cannot be submitted late and extensions will not be granted.

    If you are unsure about the scheduling of your exams, the iconnect team and your Student Relationship Officers are here to support you on Live Chat and Zoom Monday to Thursday 8am – 8pm, Fridays 8am – 5pm and from 12pm – 5pm on weekends.

    The opening date and opening time showing for each of your courses, indicates the time your Online Exam will open on StudyDesk, or when your Take Home Exam can be accessed. These exams will be available for 48 hours. You must check your Formal Exam Schedule to access this information and make sure you know the duration of your exam.

    The closing date and closing time showing for each of your courses, indicates the time your Online Exam will close on StudyDesk, or when your Take Home Exam must be completed and submitted by.

    Please remember all times are shown in Australian Eastern Standard Time (AEST) and remember to give yourself plenty of time to complete and submit your exam before the closing date and closing time shown. 

    Please take note:

    • If you have an exam opening at 8:30am (08:30), your exam will close two days (48 hours) later, at 8:30am (08:30) on the closing date.
    • If you have an exam opening at 2:30pm (14:30), your exam will close two days (48 hours) later, at 2:30pm (14:30) on the closing date.

    If you have any questions, the iconnect team and your Student Relationship Officers are here to support you on Live Chat and Zoom Monday to Thursday 8am – 8pm, Fridays 8am – 5pm and from 12pm – 5pm on weekends.

    This will depend on the types of exam you have been assigned in your course/s, and the types of adjustments that have been approved on your learning support plan.

    The Student Equity Team are available to discuss the services and support you will be able to access when completing your examination.

    USQ is flexible in our delivery of assessment methods for students with disabilities, and we realise that each student’s needs will be different depending on the format of your relevant assessment items.

    The Student Equity Team are available to discuss what services and support are available and will negotiate on your behalf to achieve a reasonable offer of accommodations.

    Your StudyDesk will outline the items you are permitted to access in your exam.

    Students are responsible for providing their own permitted items. Ensure you have all required items before you start your exam.

    If you are unable to complete your exam within the specified timeframes due to compelling circumstances you may apply for a deferred examination. If your examination is already deferred or is a supplementary from a previous semester, you will need to apply to defer again. To apply, follow the Deferred Examination process and provide evidence to support your application.

    You will have five (5) University business days from the closing date of your examination to submit your application. 

    If you have questions, the iconnect team and your Student Relationship Officers are here to support you on Live Chat and Zoom Monday to Thursday 8am – 8pm, Fridays 8am – 5pm and from 12pm – 5pm on weekends.

    If you are feeling unwell on the dates your exam has been scheduled, you are encouraged not to attempt the exam and to apply for deferred examination. You must be able to provide supporting evidence in your application (e.g. Medical Certificate).

    If you choose to undertake your exam whilst you are unwell, you will not be eligible to apply for special consideration. Once you have started your exam, you will not be eligible to apply for a deferred assessment.

    To apply, follow the Deferred Examination process.

    Urgent enquires:

    Ph: +61 7 4631 2285

    Ph: 1800 007 252 (within Australia only)

    Other enquires:

    For general and non-urgent queries, please phone during business hours or email assessment.support@usq.edu.au and one of our team will be with you as soon as possible.

    Please refer to the Academic Calendar that is applicable to the Teaching Period in which you are enrolled.

    For Deferred and Supplementary Formal Examinations, please refer to the Deferred and Supplementary webpage.