Examination Policy
UNC COM administers examinations throughout all phases of the curriculum to assess mastery of course objectives and program competencies. Examinations may include written, practical, oral, simulation-based or standardized patient formats. All examination questions are developed and reviewed in alignment with national standards including COMLEX and USMLE to ensure fairness, validity and reliability. Students receive performance feedback following examinations, although examination items remain secure.
Timing and Attendance of Examinations
Students are expected to arrive at least 10 minutes prior to the scheduled examination start time. Examinations begin and end at the designated times, and no additional time is provided for late arrivals. Students who arrive more than 15 minutes after the scheduled start time will not be permitted to sit for the examination and must report to the Office of Student Affairs to determine next steps.
Absences from examinations must be approved in advance or documented in emergency situations in accordance with the Excused Absence Policy. Unexcused absences result in a grade of zero. Make-up examinations may be scheduled for approved absences and may differ in format from the original examination.
Examination Decorum
Examinations are administered in a secure and proctored environment to maintain academic integrity. Students are permitted to bring only the following items into the examination area:
- UNC-approved device and charging cord
- UNC-issued scratch paper and pencil
- UNC-issued earplugs if needed
- One sealed beverage if desired
All other personal items including backpacks, mobile phones, smartwatches and unauthorized electronic devices must be stored in a location designated by the examination proctor. Some examinations may allow different materials based on the nature of the assessment. Students will be notified of any permitted material changes in advance.
Communication with peers is prohibited once students are seated. Students must comply with all proctor instructions at all times. Suspected academic misconduct will be reported to the Student Professionalism Committee.
Examination Interruptions
Technical issues or emergencies occurring during an examination must be reported immediately to a proctor by raising a hand. If technical issues cannot be resolved promptly, proctors may provide a paper version of the examination.
Students may take brief restroom breaks during examinations, with no more than two students permitted to leave the examination room at the same time. If an examination must be interrupted for all students due to circumstances such as a power or internet outage, rescheduling or re-examination procedures will be directed by the Associate Dean of Preclinical Education or the Associate Dean of Clinical Education.
Counseling After a Failed Examination
Students who do not pass an examination are required to meet with their Academic Advisor to review study strategies, test-taking skills and available learning resources. When appropriate, referrals may be made to the Course Director, Learning Specialist or Behavioral Health Services.
Students who demonstrate repeated difficulty may be placed on an academic support plan or referred to the Student Success Committee for additional review and guidance. The purpose of counseling and support is to ensure students receive the resources necessary to improve performance and succeed in future assessments.