Job Description for Exam Invigilator: Duties, Pay & How to Get Started

This blog explains the job description for exam invigilator—duties, skills, hours, pay, and why it’s ideal for flexible term-time work.

Exams can be stressful for students, but a well-managed exam room makes a huge difference. That’s where exam invigilators come in. They ensure exams are fair, calm, and secure. UK schools and colleges usually hire them for short-term work, mainly during mock and summer exams. Current ads show pay of £12 to £14.50 per hour, depending on the school or area.

Let’s look more closely at what this job involves, starting with a simple explanation.

What is an Exam Invigilator?

An exam invigilator is the person who makes sure exams are run fairly and calmly. They watch over students during tests, stop cheating, and keep everything running by the rules.

In the UK, invigilators work in schools, colleges, universities, and private exam centres. The word “invigilator” comes from Latin and means “to watch over”, which perfectly describes the job. They are the school’s “eyes and ears“ in the exam room. 

Their main job is to ensure the test follows all the official rules (like those from the national exam board, JCQ). Additionally, they prepare the room, check students in, and start the exam on time. They make sure the test environment is quiet and secure. Consequently, the final test results can be trusted and valid. Today, the role is changing. Some invigilators now help run digital exams, using laptops or tablets under strict control. But the purpose stays the same — to protect fairness and support students.

What Does an Exam Invigilator Do?

So, what does an exam invigilator actually do all day? It’s a very important job. First, you get the exam room ready for all the students. You carefully lay out the papers and special equipment on each desk.

Next, you welcome students as they come into the room. You check their names and show them exactly where to sit. After that, you will read some very important announcements aloud. You explain the rules and tell everyone the official start time.

During the test, you walk quietly around the room. You help make sure everyone stays silent and focused. Your main job here is to stop anyone from cheating. Finally, you tell everyone when the exam is completely over. You collect all the test papers and return them safely.

What Does an Exam Invigilator Do?

The duties of an exam invigilator follow a clear routine, built to protect fairness and accuracy in every exam. Each step matters — from setting up the room to returning scripts safely at the end.

1. Pre-Exam Preparation

Before students arrive, invigilators get everything ready for a smooth start.

• Set out papers, answer booklets, and stationery according to the seating plan.
• Verify that the candidate numbers match the plan and that the desks are spaced properly.
• Remove or cover anything on the walls that could give unfair help.
• Collect materials from secure storage with the exams officer.

This stage ensures the room is calm, tidy, and fully compliant with exam rules.

2. Candidate Arrival and Identity Checks

Invigilators set the tone for a fair exam when applicants walk into the room.

• Greet students calmly and direct them to their seats.
• Check photo IDs or registers to confirm identities.
• Collect any banned items, such as phones or smartwatches.
• Make sure students with access arrangements — like extra time or special seating — are supported appropriately.

3. Starting the Exam

Once everyone is settled, the invigilator begins the session.

• Read the official exam instructions clearly and confidently.
• Explain what students can and cannot do during the test.
• Announce the start time precisely and note it on the board.
• Inform students of any corrections (known as errata) and give time warnings such as “30 minutes remaining.”

4. Supervision During the Exam

This is the heart of the job — steady, silent, and watchful.

• Walk quietly around the room to maintain order and focus.
• Watch for signs of cheating or distress without disturbing others.
• Handle emergencies such as illness or fire alarms according to school policy.
• Record any unusual incidents in the exam log.

5. Managing Issues Calmly

If a problem arises, invigilators must act quickly but fairly.

• Report suspected cheating discreetly to the exams officer.
• Supervise late arrivals so they settle without disruption.
• Oversee toilet breaks or extra time under controlled conditions.

6. Ending and Collecting Papers

At the end of the exam, precision is key.

• Stop the test exactly on time and instruct students to stop writing.
• Collect all scripts in order, checking that none are missing.
• Bundle and label papers correctly before returning them to the exams office.
• Ensure all materials are secure — especially in high-security exams.

What Skills Do You Need for This Job?

According to organisations such as the University of Essex and the NCLT, such interpersonal skills are mentioned for accuracy in order to avoid any procedural errors that may result in appeals or resits.

• Good attention to detail: In order to avoid missing any papers or candidates, this is crucial.
• Calm and Confident: You have to be able to manage a room full of students easily.
• Clear speaking voice: The formal regulations must be read aloud; therefore, you need this.
• Reliable and punctual: Exams begin at specific times.  Therefore, you cannot be late.

Do You Need Qualifications to Be an Exam Invigilator?

Success in this role requires a specific mix of personal qualities and professional skills that allow the invigilator to manage the high-stakes environment effectively.

• Most schools do not require specific formal qualifications. Instead, they will give you the necessary training.
• Some schools might ask for basic qualifications such as GCSEs in English and Maths.
• You will always need a background check (DBS check). Additionally, you’ll need some basic training on keeping children safe (safeguarding).

How Many Hours Do Invigilators Work?

The work is flexible, but it’s not a full-time, year-round job: The work happens in sessions:

• Mornings usually run from 8:00/8:30 am to 11:00 am.
• Afternoons usually run from 12:30/1:00 pm to 3:30/4:30 pm.

The job is mostly casual or seasonal. You will work much more in May and June (when the main exams happen). Conversely, you will work much less during the rest of the school year.

How Much Do Exam Invigilators Get Paid?

Exam invigilators are typically paid by the hour, reflecting the casual and sessional nature of the work.

Typical UK Rate

When it comes to pay, exam invigilating isn’t a full-time career — but it can be a rewarding source of flexible income. Most UK schools and colleges currently pay around £12 to £14.50 an hour, though rates can vary slightly depending on the area, the type of school, and who’s hiring.

Some job ads list an annual salary of £21,000 to £25,000, but that figure can be misleading—it’s a full-time equivalent (FTE). In reality, invigilators only work during exam periods, so pay is calculated pro rata based on the actual hours worked.

That’s why this role is often described as “top-up income”. It’s ideal for people who want flexible work that fits around other commitments — like retirees looking to stay active, parents with school-age children, or students wanting to earn extra cash during exam season.

Why is it Called “Top-Up” Income?

Most exam work is in May and June, but it’s very quiet the rest of the year. That’s why people call it top-up income; if you work the full exam season, you can usually earn around £1,000 to £3,000 a year. It’s extra money rather than a full-time job.

Is Being an Exam Invigilator a Good Job?

Yes, for many people it’s a great and flexible job. It’s simple and steady and fits well around other work or family life. Here’s why it’s worth considering.

Flexible Schedule
Invigilators only work during exam times, such as mock or summer exams. Because of that, you can choose when you’re available. It’s a good option if you want to earn extra money without giving up too much free time.

Low Stress
You don’t need to teach or mark any papers. Instead, you help keep the exam calm and fair. It’s important work, but not as stressful as teaching.

Good Step Into Schools
If you want a long-term job in a school, this role is a smart starting point. It helps you get used to the school environment and meet teachers and staff. Later, you could move into roles like teaching assistant or admin support.

Fair Pay
Most schools pay between £12 and £14.50 an hour. That’s decent for part-time work, especially since no formal qualifications are needed.

If this sounds like the kind of job that fits your lifestyle, you can easily get started. Read “How Do I Become an Exam Invigilator” on the School of Healthcare website. It explains the full process — from training and requirements to application tips. 

Final Thoughts on the Job Description for Exam Invigilator

Exam invigilating is an important job that keeps exams fair. It’s also a good way to earn extra money with short hours and proper training. If you want easy, low-stress work during the UK summer, this job is perfect. But it works best as a second income, not your main job. 

Aiming to begin? Join the Exam Invigilator Training Course at the School of Healthcare. You’ll learn everything you need to step confidently into the role and start working in schools.

FAQ

What are the person specifications for an exam invigilator?

An invigilator should be reliable, punctual, careful, trustworthy, and calm with students.

What four things must invigilators be familiar with?

Exam regulations, candidate instructions, emergency procedures, and the exam timetable or seating arrangements.

What must an invigilator do at the start of an exam?

Check candidate identities, distribute papers, explain instructions, and ensure everyone is seated correctly.

How do you write a personal statement for an exam invigilator?

Show that you are reliable, pay attention to detail, stay organised, and have experience working with or supervising people. Keep it clear and concise.

What are the responsibilities of an exam invigilator?

Supervise students, follow rules, secure papers, report issues, and maintain a calm, fair room.

Are invigilators allowed to sit down?

Yes, invigilators can sit when supervising, as long as they remain alert and visible to candidates.

What skills do you need to be an exam invigilator?

Be careful, be patient, manage time well, communicate clearly, and stay calm under pressure.

Are invigilators allowed to talk?

Only when necessary — for instructions, questions about procedures, or handling issues. Casual conversations with candidates are not allowed.