Information for examiners and moderators

AQA online marking & moderation: PC and technical requirements

To carry out your marking and moderation tasks for AQA, you’ll need access to your own computer or laptop, a broadband internet connection with a compatible and up-to-date web browser, and a personal email account.

In addition, we encourage you to work in a private and secure environment, where your screen and materials cannot be seen or accessed by others. AQA do not condone the marking of candidate scripts or non-exam assessment in public places, such as a café or on a train.

Supported devices and operating systems

AQA supports the use of Windows operating system on a PC or laptop. Windows must be a currently supported version, with all available security updates applied.

Unfortunately we’re not able to support the use of Apple Macs for our marking platforms.

Whilst tablets and smart phones are convenient for sending/receiving AQA communications, we don’t recommend their use for online meetings, training or marking and moderation tasks.

Browser and settings (for web-based tools)

• Use an up-to-date browser (for example, Microsoft Edge or Google Chrome).
• Allow pop-ups where required for Learning Space and other AQA systems.
• Ensure you can download and open files (for example, PDF/ZIP) if your role requires it.
• Do not use browser plug-ins or settings that block essential cookies, scripts, or site permissions needed for secure sign-in.

Check your PC details (Windows)

It’s a good idea to check your PC/laptop meets the requirements before you start your onboarding tasks.

To view your PC/laptop system information:

1. Select Start.
2. Open System Information (you may be able to search for it directly from Start).
3. Review your Windows version, processor, and installed memory (RAM).

PC/laptop specification (recommended)

Systems used for standardisation, marking and moderation

Depending on the method of standardisation and marking/moderation for your component, please view the corresponding web page down the left-hand side of this screen, outlining the technical requirements for each AQA platform and application.

Using a school/third‑party PC or laptop

You may use third‑party equipment (for example, a school PC/laptop) for marking, provided all of the conditions are met:

• you have the centre’s permission to use the equipment and to install any required software
• the device can access the internet without being restricted by the centre’s network (for example, content filtering/proxy restrictions that prevent access to marking systems)
• you will work in a secure, private location where colleagues, students, or members of the public cannot access your screen or materials
• you have permission to mark during working hours, where applicable.

Accessibility and display tips

• If text is hard to read, increase your browser zoom (for example, 110–125%) or adjust the Windows display scaling.
• Set the screen resolution to the recommended setting for your monitor.
• Enable Windows ClearType (font smoothing) and increasing text size where needed.
• Consider a larger monitor (or a second screen) to reduce scrolling when viewing scripts and mark schemes side by side.
• If you’re sensitive to glare, reduce screen brightness, use an anti-glare position/lighting setup, or switch to a matte monitor.
• Use high-contrast settings or a comfortable theme if you find low-contrast text tiring to read.
• Take regular short breaks to reduce eye strain, especially during longer marking sessions.
• Reduce mouse use by using keyboard shortcuts (for example, Ctrl + “+” / Ctrl + “-” to zoom in/out in most browsers).

Working securely and protecting confidentiality

• Work in a private location and ensure your screen cannot be overlooked.
• Lock your device when away from it.
• Do not share your account credentials or allow others to use your logged-in session.
• Use a trusted internet connection and avoid public Wi‑Fi where possible.