Ofqual allows on-screen exams in the digital systems V Level

Ofqual said on 10 September 2026 that timed exams in the new V Level in digital systems and data may be taken on screen.

V Levels are vocational courses for students after GCSEs. They will sit alongside A levels and T Levels in England.

Ofqual said in its announcement that 40% of the marks will come from timed exams and 60% from other assessment. A V Level is about the same size as an A level. Grades run from A* to E, then P for a pass.

The consultation outcome shows Ofqual first proposed on-screen exams only for this subject. It then added accounting and finance. Exam boards that offer both paper and screen versions will not need separate specifications. Ofqual's summary says respondents raised college readiness, digital inequality and the effect on learners with special educational needs. FE Week reported that Ofqual went ahead despite those concerns.

The course content, published by the Department for Education in July, covers AI-enabled systems and structured coding. It says students are not required to use a specific programming language. Their digital solutions may be scripted, automated or low-code.

For students choosing courses for September 2027, the rules set the shape of the assessment. For colleges, Ofqual's decision permits on-screen exams but does not require them. Ofqual's summary says most respondents favoured a gradual, phased rollout.

Ofqual still has to consult on the draft rules for on-screen exams. It will decide on future V Levels subject by subject. It is not yet known whether exam boards will offer this course on screen.

Sources

1. Ofqual (GOV.UK) | Ofqual confirms new V Level regulations to give students clear route into skilled careers
2. Ofqual (GOV.UK) | On-screen assessment in V Levels, Foundation Certificates and Occupational Certificates
3. Department for Education (GOV.UK) | V Level subject content: digital systems and data
4. FE Week | Ofqual extends on-screen testing to accountancy V Level