The PEB has published the main practical documents for candidates sitting the UK qualifying examinations in October 2026. They cover the timetable, examination room and equipment rules, the PEBX and ProctorExam systems, and the role of a Designated Contact for candidates sitting at work.
The documents list 28 August 2026 as the deadline for reasonable-adjustment applications with full supporting evidence, requests to change examination venue and notification of a workplace Designated Contact. If one of these applies to you and you still need to act, check the position directly with the PEB.
Put the trial date in your diary. The Foundation Certificate trial is scheduled for 18 September and the Final Diploma trial for 25 September. The PEB strongly advises candidates to take part. It is the opportunity to test the computer, internet connection, PEBX login and ProctorExam setup that will be used on the day. FD3 and FD4 candidates can also practise their intended method for scanning and uploading annotated material.
A few practical points are worth checking now:
- The specified setup includes Google Chrome, Windows 10 or later, Microsoft Word 2010 or later with autosave enabled, and a PDF viewer. FD4 candidates also need a PDF creator. - Microsoft Copilot must be disabled. AI tools are not permitted during the examinations. - A second screen and touchscreens are not permitted. - The stated minimum broadband upload speed is 1.5 to 2 Mbit/s. - Candidates must manage their own time and upload the completed Word answer document within the ten-minute upload period. Late answers will not be marked and cannot be submitted by email.
For FD4, the standard timetable gives a 10:00 start on Tuesday 20 October. The answer period, printing allowance and screen breaks run to 15:30, followed by an upload deadline of 15:40. Different timings apply where reasonable adjustments have been approved.
The same PEB page includes separate information for the 2026/27 ICPA examinations. It gives 10 December 2026 for the online mock examination and 21 January 2027 for the live examination, with further detailed candidate and technical information expected in November.
This is only a summary. Candidates should read the PEB documents in full and treat them as the definitive instructions.
PEB candidate information page
Essential Information for Candidates
Technical Requirements and Guidance