What is a component exemption?
Candidates may not be able to work with others, or access certain facilities or equipment. This means they may be unable to complete a component. By using a component exemption (also known as a Covid-19 exemption), candidates do not take the component but can still receive an overall syllabus grade. Exempted candidates do not sit the exam for the exempted component or complete the coursework/speaking component. You do not send any candidate work to us for the exempted component.
Wherever possible, candidates should complete all components according to the requirements set out in the syllabus because this gives them the best chance of showing what they know and can do.
If we accepted your application and your candidates complete all the other components in the syllabus option, we will calculate an assessed mark for the exempted component and issue a syllabus grade.
Exemption regulations supplement
Our supplement outlines Covid-19 exemption regulations for the November 2022 series (PDF, 120KB). You must use this, as well as the Cambridge Handbook, if you are running exams.
What component exemptions were available?
You can see what Covid-19 exemptions were available for which syllabuses and components.
Frequently asked questions
If you need help, see our frequently asked questions.
How do I apply for component exemptions?
You can no longer apply for component exemptions. The deadline was 21 September.
If you applied for one or more component exemptions and we approved them, you must confirm which candidates you would like to exempt from which component(s) by 9 October 2022 (at 23:59 UTC+1).
Submitting candidates’ details for Covid-19 exemptions
If you have one or more approved component exemptions you will need to tell us which candidates you would like to exempt from which component(s) by 9 October 2022 (at 23:59 UTC+1). You do this via Direct and it is extremely important you complete this step, otherwise your candidates cannot use their exemptions.
Step by step guidance
This guide explains how to submit your candidates' details for Covid-19 exemptions.
Guide to submitting candidates’ details for Covid–19 exemptions (PDF, 120KB)