This page aims to provide you with the tools to familiarize yourself with the basic rules of conducting an exam so that you are aware of your rights during this crucial learning period.
If you believe there is a violation of the regulations, do not hesitate to contact your class delegation, which can then reach out to the representation department of AGEPoly if necessary to address the issue.
The official examination rules are mostly outlined in three legally binding texts, which are relatively short but dense:
- The ordinance on the control of studies leading to a bachelor’s and master’s degree at EPFL (not available in English)
- The internal directive on examination procedures at EPFL
- The study regulations of your section
There are many other texts, known as “LEX,” that could prove useful, listed on Polylex. The LEX with numbers starting with 2.6 (subsection “Exams and Appeals”) are specifically related to exams and related matters.
Since 2021, the Center for Teaching Support (CAPE) has offered an “Assessment handbook” that summarizes the LEX concerning exams and provides their interpretation by the legal service of EPFL. Here is the September 2023 version: [link].
Among the most important rules, but sometimes overlooked:
Examination Content:
- Questions must be renewed for each written exam. (LEX 2.6.1 article 8 al. 1)
- For multiple-choice questionnaires, several versions of the exam are prepared, where the order of questions varies. (LEX 2.6.1 article 8 al. 3)
- Exams are conducted in the language of the subject’s instruction. The student has the right to answer in French during an English exam. Upon a written request from the student, the instructor may allow them to answer in English if the exam is in French. (LEX 2.6.0.1 article 11)
Exam Supervision:
- For written exams during the exam session, the teacher must be personally present at the exam except in cases out of control. (LEX 2.6.1 article 11 al. 1)
- Any oral exam during the exam session must take place in the presence of an observer. This presence is not necessary for oral exams during the semester. (LEX 2.6.1 article 12 al. 1)
Inability to Attend the Exam:
- A student who claims to be unable to attend an exam must notify the school as soon as this reason arises. (LEX 2.6.0.1 article 10 al. 1)
- The student must also present supporting documents no later than three days after the occurrence of the reason for inability. Supporting documents include, among other things, a medical certificate or an attestation of a legal obligation to serve. (LEX 2.6.0.1 article 10 al. 2)
- For more information on course/exam accommodations [link]
- Directive on medical certificates submitted to EPFL [link]