KINGSTON, Jamaica – The Ministry of Education today reminded candidates sitting subjects in the Caribbean Examinations Council-administered Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) and the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE) starting May 2, that mobile phones are not allowed in the examination rooms or centres.

According to the ministry, if these are found on people in the room, this could result in the cancellation of examination results for the respective candidate or candidates.

Also, the ministry said that for examinations where calculators are allowed, they must be silent, non-programmable scientific devices.

Meanwhile, the ministry said in a news release Tuesday that regarding identification cards (ID), private candidates are reminded that only national IDs are acceptable. These include passport, drivers’ licence, and national voters ID.

The ministry also reminded candidates that they are required to arrive at least 30 minutes prior to the start of examinations to ensure adequate time for seating and administration.

“All examination sessions will start 9:00 am for the morning session and 1:00 pm for the evening session,” the release said. “Candidates arriving 30 minutes or more after the start of an examination will not be allowed to sit the examination.”

The ministry said all candidates should have already received their timetables. However, if they have not, they should contact their schools. Private candidates should contact the Overseas Examinations Commission (OEC) Office.

“It is important that candidates are aware of the venue for their examinations to ensure there are no delays on the examination day,” the ministry said.

Additional writing paper will be given upon request to those candidates who have used up the space provided in the answer booklets, the ministry said. This will apply to those subjects being marked electronically.

“If there is any natural disaster or civil unrest, candidates should keep in touch with their schools and listen to the electronic media and press for information regarding alternate arrangements,” the ministry’s release said.