What devices are approved for exams?
Only exam‑compliant reading pens are approved for use in exams, and these must meet strict regulations set by exam boards (such as JCQ in the UK).
Approved devices
From Scanning Pens guidance, the main approved device is:
- C‑Pen Exam Reader 2
- Specifically designed for exam use
- JCQ‑approved as an access arrangement
- Permitted across major qualifications such as GCSEs, A‑levels, BTECs and Functional Skills
SATs approval (with Exam Lock)
- C‑Pen Reader 2
- Approved for use in KS2 SATs
- Must have Exam Lock enabled
- Must be the student’s normal way of working
This allows schools to use a familiar classroom device in primary assessments, while still meeting exam compliance requirements.
Why these devices are approved
To be allowed in exams, a device must:
- Only read text aloud
- dictionary
- thesaurus
- translation
- data storage
Not include:
The C‑Pen Exam Reader is purpose-built to meet these rules, which is why it is widely accepted under JCQ guidance.
What about other C‑Pens?
- Standard models like C‑Pen Reader 2 or Reader 3 are not automatically approved for all exams
- They may be used in specific cases (like SATs) when:
- Exam Lock is enabled, and
- The school confirms compliance
For most formal secondary exams, schools typically use the dedicated Exam Reader.
Key takeaway
- C‑Pen Exam Reader = fully approved for GCSEs, A‑levels and more
- C‑Pen Reader 2 = approved for SATs with Exam Lock enabled
- All devices must meet strict rules and reflect the student’s normal way of working