If you’re found with an unauthorised device in an exam, it can feel really stressful. The key thing to know is that the University takes this seriously, even if it was unintentional.Here’s what counts, what happens, and what it could mean for you.

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What is an unauthorised electronic device?

This includes things like:

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• mobile phones

• smart watches

• fitness trackers

• MP3 players

• non-approved calculators.

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If it’s on you or near you during an exam, it can be classed as misconduct - even if it’s switched off, you didn’t use it or you forgot it was there.

These are often found during pocket checks (e.g. toilet breaks), devices left on desks or items not handed in during the pre-exam amnesty.

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This list isn’t exhaustive, new devices are included as technology changes.

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Why is this taken so seriously?

The University uses a “zero tolerance” approach. This means even a small mistake can lead to formal action or intent doesn’t need to be proven.

This is called a strict liability offence, meaning just having the device is enough for it to count as misconduct, even if you didn’t use it.

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What penalties can be given?

Penalties range from A (warning letter), all the way up to G (expulsion from the University).

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What you receive depends on the situation, but for unauthorised devices, there is usually a minimum penalty of C.

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What do the main penalties mean?

A – Minor misconduct

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• warning letter

• stays on your record

• may be asked to complete an academic honesty module.

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B – Repeated minor misconduct

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• formal reprimand

• mark of zero for the exam

• right to a referral (resit), but the mark cannot exceed your original mark.

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C – Misconduct (no clear advantage gained)

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This is the most common outcome for unauthorised devices.

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• formal reprimand

• mark of zero for the exam

• you can take a referral (resit).

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However, your mark will be capped at the pass mark or your original mark (whichever is lower). This means you won’t be able to improve beyond your original performance.

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D – Severe misconduct (possible advantage gained)

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There are two outcomes:

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1. D1 - mark of zero for the assessment, no right to referral for that piece of work or you may still be reassessed for the module (depending on structure), but only for unaffected components.

2. D2 - mark of zero for the whole module, or you can resit, but capped at the pass mark.

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In some cases, this can lead to not progressing to the next year, being moved to a different qualification or graduating with a lower award.

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E – Severe misconduct (clear advantage gained)

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There are two outcomes.

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1. E1 - mark of 0 for the module and no referral (resit) allowed

2. E2 - mark of 0 for the year. You can resit the year, but marks are capped at the pass mark.

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F – Severe misconduct (significant advantage gained)

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There are two outcomes

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1. F1 - mark of 0 for affected modules, you won’t be able to receive your intended degree or you may receive a lower qualification based on credits already achieved.

2. F2 - mark of 0 for the year, no referral (resit) allowed, and previous credits may still count towards a lower award.

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G – Most serious misconduct

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This is for extreme cases like impersonation. You could be expelled from the University with no credits awarded.

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What does this look like in real situations?

Even small situations can have big outcomes.

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For example:

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• A switched-off smartwatch left on a desk, leads to a C penalty, your exam mark capped, which could result in you failing the module.

• A phone found during a break (even if not used) leads to a D2 penalty, resulting in a module mark of zero, which could possibly have an impact on your progression.

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How are devices usually found?

Common situations include:

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• forgetting a device in your pocket

• not handing it in before the exam

• being checked during a toilet break.

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How can I avoid this happening?

Before your exam:

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• empty your pockets fully

• double-check for devices

• hand in anything not allowed

• follow invigilator instructions carefully.

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It sounds simple, but most cases happen because something was forgotten.

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Where can I find more information?

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• Academic Misconduct Support Guide

• TQA Manual

• Exam Guidance for Candidates

• Student Handbook for Exams

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Can the Guild help me?

If you’ve been contacted about exam misconduct, it can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to deal with it alone. We can:

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• explain what’s happening

• help you understand your situation

• support you in preparing for meetings

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Email advice@exeterguild.com or complete our enquiry form. We’ll help you understand what it means and what to do next.