International Baccalaureate, Cambridge International examinations cancelled in light of Covid-19

PETALING JAYA: Two major examination bodies are cancelling their upcoming examinations in light of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Cambridge International has cancelled its examinations in May and June.

This includes Cambridge IGCSE, Cambridge O Level, Cambridge International AS & A Level, Cambridge AICE Diploma and Cambridge Pre-U, it said in a statement on its website.

“In recent days, many more countries have decided to extend school closures into May and June, making it impossible for many of our schools to hold examinations, ” it said on Monday (March 23).

However, it said that students will still receive a grade and a certificate from Cambridge International, given the knowledge and skills they have acquired in their programmes of study.

“This will ensure students do not face any disadvantage as a result of these extraordinary circumstances, ” it continued, adding that schools will be guided on how to grade the students.

“We are talking to universities worldwide, and they are factoring these unprecedented circumstances into admissions decisions, so students can continue with their education journeys as soon as possible.”

Cambridge International also said that it will be providing regular updates for schools beginning Thursday (March 26).

At the same time, International Baccalaureate examinations for the May 2020 session have also been cancelled.

The organisation announced that the decision to cancel the exams was based on considerable advice from stakeholders across the globe, including schools, students, universities and official bodies.

“The May 2020 examinations, scheduled between April 30 and May 22 for Diploma Programme and Career-related Programme candidates will no longer be held, as we believe it to be the most responsible and ethical way forward.

“Depending on which programme International Baccalaureate students are registered for, they will be awarded a Diploma or a Course Certificate which reflects their standard of work.

"This is based on their coursework and the established assessment expertise, rigour and quality control measures already built into the programmes, ” said the organisation in a statement.

It added that International Baccalaureate students, their wellbeing and progression in future stages of life have been at the forefront of its thinking, as it responds to the Covid-19 pandemic.

“As an organisation, it is critical for the International Baccalaureate to ensure that the options it provides its global community of International Baccalaureate World Schools are based on compassion and fairness for the difficult circumstances that its students and educators are experiencing, ” it said.

The IB, which will release full details and frequently asked questions (FAQs) on Friday (March 27) said information about the Middle Years Programme e-Assessment examinations due to be held on May 11 to 22 will be provided this week (March 30 onwards).