No, you don’t just “watch people write exams.” But you don’t need a degree either. The question you’re asking is “How to become an invigilator for exams?” If you want to be an exam invigilator in the UK, you don’t need loads of stuff. Just a clean background check, a bit of training, and the patience to sit quietly and keep things in order during exams. That’s it. Most roles are casual, but they pay decently and don’t ask for a long CV. Now, let’s look at the real job, step by step.
What Does an Exam Invigilator Actually Do?
Invigilators help keep exams fair. You give out the papers, explain the rules, and keep things quiet. You watch the room to stop cheating and collect everything when the time’s up. You might help a nervous student or spot someone breaking the rules. But mostly, you stay alert while the exam runs.
You’ll work in places like schools, colleges, universities, and training centres. The busiest times for exams are usually from May to June and again from November to December. Some places run exams year-round.
Who Hires Exam Invigilators?
Schools need invigilators for GCSEs and A-levels. In Scotland, they use you for National 5s and Highers. Colleges and adult education centres run BTECs and other tests. Universities run semester exams. Private centres host professional tests, like IT, finance or medical certifications.
Some testing bodies include:
- Pearson VUE (IT and professional tests)
- Cambridge English and IELTS (language tests)
- SQA (Scotland)
- JCQ (England, Wales, Northern Ireland)
You can apply to local schools, councils, unis, or exam centres. Or you can sign up with agencies that send invigilators to different places.
Skills You Need to Become an Invigilator
You don’t need a teaching background. But you do need to be:
- Calm under pressure
- Focused and alert
- Polite but firm
- Good at following rules
- Reliable and on time
You must speak English well. In Wales, some roles also ask for Welsh.
You’ll be on your feet most of the time. You’ll walk around the exam room and keep things calm. The work isn’t heavy, but you do need to stay awake and pay attention.
Do You Need Any Qualifications?
No formal qualifications are needed. Most places prefer if you have GCSEs, but they don’t always ask. You don’t need a degree.
What you do need is an enhanced DBS check in England, Wales, or NI. That’s a background check. In Scotland, it’s called a PVG.
Some places offer training. Some expect you to attend a short session before exams start. Others might ask for a simple online module.
How to Become an Invigilator for Exams (Step-by-Step)
Here’s a clear path to get started:
1. Check Local Listings
Search for jobs on school websites, council job boards, or sites like Indeed and Totaljobs. Look for roles titled “Exam Invigilator” or “Assessment Assistant.”
2. Apply Online or in Person
You usually send a short CV and fill out a form. Some schools may ask for two references. Agencies often ask for a short interview.
3. Pass Your Background Check
If you don’t already have a DBS or PVG, the employer will help you get one. It takes about two to four weeks.
4. Attend Training
Most places offer training a few weeks before exams start. It may be in person or online. They’ll walk you through what to do on exam day.
5. Get On the Rota
Once cleared, you’re added to the contact list. Schools call you in when they need extra hands. You may get one shift a week or several in a row.
Where to Apply for Invigilator Jobs in 2025
Here are common places that post invigilator jobs:
- Local schools and academies
- Council adult education teams (e.g. Kent Adult Ed)
- Universities (check their staff vacancies pages)
- Agencies (Link3, Hays Education, The Supply Register)
- Private exam centres (Pearson VUE, Prometric)
Tip: Email your local school or college directly. Ask if they need help during exam season. Many don’t advertise widely but always need more invigilators.
What Training Will You Get?
Every invigilator must get trained. Most places do it a week or two before exams begin. They’ll teach you:
- How to set up the room
- What to say to students
- What to do if someone is sick or cheats
- How to collect and seal papers
The rules come from JCQ or SQA, depending where you work. Training lasts one or two hours. It’s simple and practical.
What Are the Shifts Like?
Shifts are short but early. Morning exams often start at 9 a.m. You usually need to arrive by 8:15. Afternoon exams start around 1 p.m.
You’ll be done by midday or late afternoon. Some days, you might work both sessions. Breaks are short, and you eat between sessions.
A typical shift includes:
- Briefing
- Setting out papers
- Reading instructions
- Watching the room
- Collecting papers
- Reporting any issues
What Does the Job Actually Feel Like?
It’s quiet. You’re standing or walking for a few hours. You can’t chat or look at your phone. You can’t help the students with the test.
Sometimes it’s boring. Other times it’s tense, especially when a student panics or misbehaves. You need to stay calm either way.
You’ll fill out forms, count papers, and follow a script. You’ll be part of a small team. A lead invigilator (the chief) tells you where to go.
It’s not hard, but it’s strict. You can’t wing it. You have to follow the rules.
How Much Do Invigilators Get Paid?
Pay depends on where you work. Most jobs pay between £11 and £14 per hour. Some include holiday pay at that rate.
Here’s a rough breakdown:
- School invigilator: £12–£13/hour
- Adult ed centres: £12.50–£13/hour
- Agency jobs: £11–£14/hour
- Private centres: £13–£15/hour
Most jobs are paid monthly. You’ll submit a timesheet or sign in at each shift.
Is the Work Steady?
Not really. It’s seasonal. Peak months are May–June and sometimes November. You might work every day for two weeks, then not at all for months.
That’s why many invigilators are:
- Retired teachers
- Uni students
- Freelancers
- People with flexible jobs
If you like predictable hours, this isn’t for you. But if you want part-time work in short bursts, it fits well.
Do You Need Any Extra Checks?
Yes. You’ll need a DBS or PVG. The employer usually helps you apply. They pay for it in most cases.
You’ll also need to show ID, proof of address, and the right to work in the UK. Bring documents to your interview or induction.
Pros and Cons of Being an Invigilator
Pros:
- No long-term contract
- Decent hourly pay
- No special qualifications
- Calm work (most of the time)
- Training is short and free
Cons:
- Zero-hours work
- Boring at times
- No talking or phones during the shift
- Short shifts can feel long
- Early starts
Real Invigilator Tips (from the Field)
- Bring a bottle of water (you won’t leave the room often)
- Wear comfy shoes (lots of walking and standing)
- Check your shift times the night before
- Learn the JCQ rules. Don’t guess.
- Stay friendly, but don’t chat during the test.
Final Thoughts: Is This Job Right for You?
If you like clear rules, short shifts, and quiet rooms, this could be a good fit. You don’t need to talk much. You don’t need a degree. You just need to show up, stay alert, and follow the script.
That’s how to become an invigilator for exams. It’s honest work. You help keep things fair. You make sure every student gets the same chance. And no, it’s not just watching people write. It’s a real job. Just one that happens in silence.
Want to feel ready on day one? Check out our Invigilator course at Unified Course. Learn what really happens and feel prepared.
