What do I do if I missed my exam?
See the missed exam policy.
What am I permitted to bring to a ORCA exam?
- Your UBC card
- A water bottle
- Writing supplies (pencils, pens, erasers, pencil sharpeners)
- Ear plugs
- Wired earbuds
You may NOT bring anything else, INCLUDING calculators, wireless headphones (without accommodations), or smart watches. You are required to leave your phone in the phone storage at the front of the ORCA room before checking in.
Where should I put my phone during my exam?
Smartphones must be stored in a dedicated device holder hanging by the shelves (see image below for what it looks like, exact location may vary). This is needed for two reasons: 1) so proctors can quickly silence a ringing phone, and 2) so that students do not accidentally leave their phones in their pockets. With a dedicated spot for students to store phones, the ORCA policy is that all students who are discovered to have a phone with them during their exam will be reported to their instructor for academic misconduct – even if they are not using it.
What software is available on ORCA computers?
See the about page for details on what software is installed on the ORCA computers.
Why does the ORCA keyboard behave strangely?
This may occur if you are not used to the Microsoft Windows operating system. For instance, pressing the INSERT key toggles between two modes: one that replaces previously-typed characters with new ones and one that inserts new characters without removing anything If you encounter Windows-related issues, please ask a proctor for help.
Can I use earbuds during a ORCA exam?
You are permitted to bring wired earbuds to plug in to the ORCA computers. We will provide some sample background noise or classical music for you to listen to for your comfort and convenience.
Unfortunately, we do not take playlist requests.
Can I use the washroom during a ORCA exam?
Yes. Raise your hand or approach a proctor (depending on the urgency) and inform them you need to go to the washroom.
Only one student may go at a time, so you may have to wait until another returns.