Exam resources
Preparation is key to exam success
This page provides information that will help you prepare for all types of exam questions. The modules you study will be assessed by either Objective Response (OR) exams or Constructed Response (CR) exam formats.
Objective Response (OR)
OR exams are graded as:
- Pass mark 70%
Constructed Response (CR)
CR exams are graded as:
- 50% Pass
- 60% Merit
- 75% Distinction
In OR exams questions you will select a response from a list of possible answers. You will find these types of exams across all our qualifications.
In CR exam questions, you'll be expected to create or construct your answer in an essay style or case study style. You'll find this format of exam in our Diploma level qualifications.
CIPS Computer based exams
Firstly, get a clear understanding of what to expect on exam day. We recommend you familiarise yourself with our computer-based exam platform ‘Testreach’ by watching this video.
For more information about computer based exams, please review our Computer based exam guide
Choose plan and book your exams
If this is the first time you’re taking our exams, it’s up to you to select where you want to take your exams. Choose from one of our venues or you can take your exams by remote invigilation in the comfort of your own home or office. Find out more.
Here’s your sample exam questions and other resources for each module.
Select the qualification you’re studying and find all your study resources in one place.
Certificate in Procurement and Supply Operations
Explore our study guides, eBooks, eLearning, sample papers and Intelligence Hub content to help you achieve exam success.
Advanced Certificate in Procurement and Supply Operations
Explore our study guides, eBooks, eLearning, sample papers and Intelligence Hub content to help you achieve exam success.
NEW Diploma in Procurement and Supply
Explore our new study guides, eBooks, eLearning, eRevision for exam preparation.
NEW CIPS LEVEL 5 RESOURCES
Updated to reflect the refreshed syllabus, these new resources are designed to help you prepare for exam success.
Professional Diploma in Procurement and Supply
Explore our study guides, eBooks, eLearning, sample papers and Intelligence Hub content to help you achieve exam success.
Constructed Response Exam resources
Watch these videos to familiarise yourself with our exam formats and platform.
Exam preparation guide for (CR) level 4/5/6
Exam preparation guide for Constructed Response (CR) questions Level 4 Diploma Level 5 Advanced Diploma and Level 6 Professional Diploma.
Objective Response Exam resources
Watch these videos to familiarise yourself with our exam formats and platform.
Exam preparation guide for (OR) level 2/3
Exam preparation guidance for Objective Response (OR) questions in Level 2 Certificate and Level 3 Advanced Certificate computer-based exams.
Exam preparation guide for (OR) level 4/5/6
Exam preparation guide for Objective Response (OR) questions Level 4 Diploma Level 5 Advanced Diploma and Level 6 Professional Diploma.
Top tips for revision
How to deal with exam nerves
- Take deep breaths and stretch. This can help clear your mind and relieve any build-up of tension.
- Eat properly before your exam to keep your sugars and energy levels up. Make sure to keep hydrated too!
- Go in prepared. If you know what to expect, it can have a positive effect on your state of mind. Have a look at sample papers and even test yourself under exam conditions.
- Remember, you’re not alone. Seek advice from our CIPS social media groups on Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter.
Need some more help? Watch our video on YouTube on how to tackle your exams with our techniques and useful study tips.
Useful links
Exam policies
Providing fair assessments and transparency throughout everything we do. Read through our policies and procedures.
Remote exams
Choose to take your exams in the comfort of your own home or at the office.
Exam schedule
Take a look at the upcoming exams in our exam schedule to help you stay prepared.
Results statistics
View the latest results statistics from 2018 onwards, for both Objective Response modules and Constructed Response modules.
PM reports
These reports are designed to help tutors and learners understand the common trends presented by both strong and weaker answers in relation to the module for the given exam series.
CIPS command words
Command words help you understand what the examiner is asking. The language that is used will tell you how to answer each question, assessment or task.