Exams

Depending on the module, different examination formats are provided for, which are specified for each subject and module in the examination regulations and the module handbook for your degree programme. The most common formats in the Faculty of Computer Science are:

• Written examination: a supervised written exam, usually lasting 60–120 minutes
• Oral examination: individual or group examination in the presence of an examiner and an assessor
• Term paper/project: a written assignment, often with a practical focus
• Presentation: a talk on a set topic
• Practical examination: e.g. a programming task on a computer
• Colloquium: oral defence of a written piece of work, e.g. the final dissertation

Please refer to the module handbook or the lecturer’s announcement for details of the compulsory examination format for your module.

The examiner determines which aids are permitted, and this is usually announced in good time before the exam (e.g. via Moodle or in the final lecture). Calculators without graphing or CAS functions, a formula sheet you have prepared yourself, or the printed Official Gazette are often permitted – however, the information provided on the relevant exam paper or in the announcement is always binding.

As a rule, you may retake failed examinations twice. For the exact deadlines and regulations regarding resit examinations – such as whether these take place in the same semester or only in the next – please refer to the current examination timetable and the examination regulations applicable to your degree programme. For a third attempt, see the section ‘Third attempts’ further up on this page.

If you are unable to sit an examination due to illness, you must report this immediately and, as a rule, provide a doctor’s certificate. Unless you report this in the correct form and within the specified time limit, the examination will be deemed to have been failed. Please refer to the examination regulations for your degree programme or the ICMS online portal for details of the notification procedures and deadlines; if you have any questions, the Examinations Office will be happy to assist you.

Students with a disability or chronic illness may apply for reasonable adjustments, such as extra time to complete an exam or a modified examination format. You should submit an informal application to the Examination Board in good time before the exam. You can obtain advice on this from our contact persons in the Faculty.

Any attempts at deception (e.g. plagiarism, unauthorised aids or assistance from third parties) will result in the relevant examination being marked as ‘unsatisfactory’ (fail); in serious cases, the Examination Board may decide to expel the student. Please therefore always submit written work that you have written yourself and that is correctly cited.