Students applying to top-ranking universities in the UK will benefit from a new collaboration between the British Council and Cambridge University Press & Assessment. The new arrangement for the university admissions tests will focus on widening access and removing financial barriers for eligible students.
Students who need to take a Cambridge Assessment Admissions test for their university application will be able to take the tests in British Council exam centres in 29 locations across the UK in October and November.
The admissions tests are already sat in schools throughout the UK, but the British Council centres will provide additional access to the tests, particularly for students who are not in school or where the school is unable to run the tests.
The British Council already delivers admissions tests globally, but this will be the first time the organisation will deliver the sessions in the UK, bringing its extensive experience of delivering high-stakes tests to students. A standardised, straightforward registration system and high-quality testing experience will be offered for candidates at the start of their higher education journey.
Every year, millions of people take international exams with help from the British Council. Students and professionals gain qualifications that can open doors at leading academic institutions and improve their employment prospects around the world.
Through its globally trusted status and embedded values, the British Council will ensure that the candidate’s experience remains in safe hands. Its Quality, Compliance and Assurance (QCA) framework which monitors and audits compliance with over 100 standards across all areas of exam delivery, will ensure the highest standards of operational delivery, exams security and integrity.
Cambridge has worked hard to remove financial barriers for eligible candidates as part of their commitment to widening participation and having the British Council provide an open centre network will ensure that candidates will have the opportunity to sit the test in a venue that’s convenient for them.
Martin Lowder, Head of Global Examinations Services at the British Council, said: ‘We are delighted to be administering the delivery of Cambridge Assessment Admissions Tests in the UK for the first time. Our presence in over 100 countries means our partners benefit from our extensive network and experience in exam delivery and administration. Partners value our association and trust us to deliver the highest standard of support to help them deliver life changing exams for students.”
Gwendydd Caudwell, Head of Test Development and Delivery at Cambridge Assessment Admissions Testing, said: “Every year thousands of sixth formers start applying to universities and for many this means taking an admissions test. We’ve worked with our colleagues at the British Council to ensure everyone, regardless of their backgrounds or where they are based can get access to a test. This includes making sure the test is available in multiple locations and removing financial barriers where needed. For example, eligible candidates can have the registration fees waived as part of our commitment to widening participation.”
