Computer-based examinations
Computer-based examinations
The Institute is introducing computer-based examinations (CBEs) for the Institute’s Qualification Programme (QP). This represents our dedication to advancing environmental sustainability through a paperless examination approach and bringing digital transformative advantages to the accounting profession. Gradually replacing traditional paper-based examinations, CBEs offer a secure and digitalized assessment experience for QP students. This strategic move also aims to enhance accessibility and reduce the environment impact of the QP assessments.
Upon full implementation of the CBEs, QP students will benefit from a seamless and efficient professional education experience at the Institute.
The module outline and syllabus of the QP are structured across the Associate Level, Professional Level, and Capstone, ensuring a well-rounded educational experience. Associate Modules 1 to 9 are offered once a year over two examination sessions, with four or five Associate Module examinations per session; while Associate Module 10, Professional Modules 11 to 14 and Capstone are offered concurrently across two sessions per year. Examinations are held in Hong Kong and Mainland China; please refer to the timetable for relevant offerings.
Taking the CBE
All CBEs are delivered in examination venues across Hong Kong and Mainland China. Candidates must travel to an examination centre equipped for CBEs, where they will be supervised in-person throughout the examinations.
For CBEs held in Hong Kong:
- Candidates of Associate Modules 1 – 9 will take the CBEs in an equipped examination centre.
- Candidates of Associate Module 10, Professional Modules 11 – 14 and the Capstone will bring their own digital devices (“BYOD”) to the examination venue.
For CBEs held in Mainland China:
- Candidates of all QP Modules and Capstone will take the CBEs in an equipped examination centre.
More about the Associate Modules:
|
Exam Location |
Hong Kong |
Hong Kong |
Mainland China |
|
Module(s) |
1 – 9 |
10 |
1 – 10 |
|
Arrival |
At least 45 minutes prior to the scheduled start time |
At least 1 hour prior to the scheduled start time |
At least 45 minutes prior to the scheduled start time |
|
Mandatory Items |
N/A |
Candidates are required to: 1. Bring a fully charged notebook computer with: (i) Wi-Fi network compatible; (ii) CPU: Dual-core or above; (iii) Memory: 4 GB or above; (iv) Display: 1024 * 768 or above; (v) Hard Drive: 10 GB or above; (vi) Operating System: Windows 10 or above/ Mac OS 10.13 or above;(vii) Browser Requirements: Google Chrome 90 or above / Safari 13 or above / Edge 90 or above; and (viii) iPad or Android Tablets are NOT allowed.
2. Install the latest version of the BYOD exam software "HKEAA Cloud Exam Client" on your notebook computer prior to the examination. Candidates are recommended to check for the latest updates 2 days prior to the examination.
3. Bring external batteries to ensure your device can support the full examination for at least 4 hours, if applicable |
N/A |
|
Permitted Items |
Candidates are permitted to bring their stationeries and a calculator which should be battery-powered, noiseless, cordless, pocket-sized WITHOUT communication function, printout, dictionary or graphic/ word display facilities.
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Prohibited Items |
Mobile phones, smartwatches, smart glasses and other electronic communication devices are strictly prohibited.
For Associate Module 10, laptop stand(s), all stylus pens, smart pens, and other electronic writing instruments, separate computer monitors and detachable privacy screens, external storage devices (e.g. USB, hard drive) are prohibited at the examination centre.
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Prepare for your CBE
Before taking the examinations, candidates are encouraged to review the tutorial video, CBE guides, and frequently asked questions to better prepare for the CBE process.
Computer-based examinations tutorial video and guides
Candidates are recommended to view the tutorial video and thoroughly review the CBE guides prior to the examinations. These resources offer valuable insights and will assist you in navigating the examination process effectively.
Candidates in Hong Kong
Candidates in Mainland China
CBE practice platform
Candidates are encouraged to utilize our online CBE practice platform to prepare for the upcoming examinations and become accustomed to the computer-based mode and system operation. Stay tuned for future updates and guidelines as we shift towards CBE in phases.
Frequently Asked Questions
Candidate can find out more information on the
- FAQs of Computer-based examinations
- FAQs of Computerized exam centres (Associate Modules 1-9 in Hong Kong and Associate Modules 1-10 in Mainland China).
- FAQs of BYOD exam centres (Associate Module 10 in Hong Kong)
If candidates are unable to find an answer to their questions, please email us at examadmin@hkicpa.org.hk for support.
