Can I choose between online and paper-based assessments for Functional Skills qualifications?

For Level One (1) and Two (2) qualifications, Open Awards offer both online and paper-based assessments. Online assessments (where the provider is invigilating) are available on-demand and must be scheduled through the XAMS platform at least two (2) hours before the assessment is due to take place. Paper-based assessments are available with ten working days notice. Paper-based assessments will be posted securely to your provider at least two (2) days before the scheduled date. Please refer to the paper-based calendar for deadlines.

For Entry Level qualifications, assessments are available on-demand as paper-based assessments. Assessment must be scheduled on the XAMS platform at least two (2) hours before the assessment is due to take place. You will then be able to download the assessment papers for your learners.

We also offer Online Entry Level Three (3) assessments across Reading, Writing and Maths, which are scheduled through the XAMS platform with at least two (2) hours notice.

Open Awards invigilated assessments are available online from Entry Level Three (3) – Level Two (2) and can be scheduled via the XAMS platform with 5 working days notice, or 10 working days for the Speaking, Listening and Communicating component.