Frequently Asked Questions
Can the date of an exam be changed?
No. For exam security and the integrity of test results, Cambridge does not allow testing on any other date or time than the scheduled exam block for any reason.
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What if a student is sick on exam day?
If a student is very sick on test day, we can apply for Special Consideration to excuse them from that component, as long as proper documentation is received by the AICE Coordinator within 5 days of the missed exam. Accepted documentation includes a doctor's note, a police report (in the case of an accident), or evidence from the school that the student attempted to attend but was too sick and sent home. Special Consideration is not guaranteed — Cambridge decides whether the excuse is acceptable. Parent notes cannot be submitted.
If a student misses both parts of an exam, Cambridge will not issue a grade. Non-senior students can retake the exam the following October.
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What if a student misses both parts of an exam or misses one component but does not have the proper documentation for Special Consideration?
Sophomores and juniors who miss both components, or who miss one component but lack proper documentation for the other, can retake the exam in October of the following year, though a fee may apply. Seniors cannot retake exams in the fall and may jeopardize earning their AICE diploma if they miss or fail an exam.
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Can a student receive testing accommodations if they have a 504 or IEP?
If a student receives extended time or other accommodations, please contact Dr. Little, Mr. Alegria, or the student's counselor. There is paperwork that must be submitted in advance. 25% extended time is usually easy to obtain. Other accommodations are considered on a case-by-case basis, and Cambridge makes the final decision.
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What happens if a student passes the course but fails the Cambridge exam?
As long as a student passes the course, they will receive high school credit. Passing the Cambridge exams only determines whether a student earns college credit. Non-diploma students do not need to retake the exam, and it does not impact their course grade. Students pursuing the AICE diploma should consult their counselor or the AICE Coordinator to decide if they should retake the exam in the fall.
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What can I bring to the test?
You can bring a clear water bottle with no label. No other drinks or food are allowed at your desk. You may bring your own ink pen (no gel pens), but we provide pens for your use. Please bring a light sweater or jacket, as testing rooms can vary in temperature.
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What can't I bring to the test?
Cell phones, smartwatches, electronic or communication devices, notes, notecards, hats, food, and solid water bottles are not allowed in the exam room.
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What if I have multiple exams on the same day?
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Same session (AM or PM): Students will take one exam, then have a break. During the break, they will be held under testing conditions (no electronics) and may eat a meal or snack that they bring with them before starting the second exam.
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Different sessions (AM and PM): Students will return to class between exams.
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What happens if I come late to an AICE exam?
Cambridge administers AICE exams worldwide on the same day and at the same time. Security is a major consideration. Students must be in the exam room at designated times. If a student arrives late, we must report their arrival to Cambridge, and it is up to Cambridge whether to grade the exam. Depending on how late the student arrives, they may be prevented from taking the exam. Students should always report to their testing room, even if late, and the proctor will advise them.
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Why does each course have multiple exam dates?
Each AICE course tests multiple skills, areas of focus, and objectives. To assess proficiency, Cambridge divides the test into smaller components (1-5 tests). To earn AICE credit, students must attend all components. This means some students will take 1-5 different exams for the same course.
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Why does AICE testing extend beyond the school year?
Cambridge develops its testing calendar independently of the Sarasota County School District calendar. Exams are held in 160 countries, so our schedule does not always align. We notify students and parents/guardians of the exam dates as soon as they are finalized, usually around October 31.
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How and when do I get my results?
Each student will receive a hard copy of their username, password, and the release date for their results. Students are encouraged to take a picture of this information, email it to themselves, and send it to a parent/guardian. Results will be available online at 2 a.m. on the date printed. If a student loses the document, they can request a replacement from the AICE Coordinator for a $5 fee, payable through the school store.
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How and when do I send my results to colleges?
Cambridge offers an online transcript ordering system. In March, we request transcripts for all AICE English students, which covers both past and spring results for one fee. Previous results will be sent immediately, and spring results will be sent automatically when they are released in August. The website and ordering directions are posted on the Transcripts page of this website, listed under “Alumni Resources.” Students not in AICE English as seniors must order their transcripts independently.
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I am a senior relying on AICE scores for Bright Futures. Payment is due before my scores are released. What should I do?
Seniors should plan to pay for their first semester of college upfront and be reimbursed when AICE scores are released. Alternatively, students can request payment deferral from their college until Bright Futures updates their award with spring scores. However, some students have been dropped from classes for non-payment, so monitor your account carefully.
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I need to register for my college classes before my scores are released. What should I do?
Colleges typically ask students to enroll in courses as though they will not pass AICE exams. Once scores are available, students can drop unnecessary courses and enroll in higher-level ones.
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What if I don't pass enough classes to earn my AICE diploma?
Students cannot retake failed exams after graduation. It is recommended that students take more than the required 7 courses to avoid the risk of needing to pass every exam in their senior year. Students should also focus on maintaining their GPA and retaking the SAT/ACT to qualify for the Bright Futures Scholarship using that path.