Online time-limited assessments
You may take an online time-limited assessment (OTLA) during your time at Leeds.
OTLAs are assessments that are open for 24-48 hours to allow students in different time zones to start the assessment at a time suitable for them. This format can support you by including extra time and allowing you to take rest periods when you need them.
The expected word count or recommended amount of time you should spend on the assessment will be included in the rubric of the paper.
Types of OTLAs
Usually there are two types of assessment you may be asked to complete within the time period: ‘recommended duration’ or ‘set duration’ OTLAs.
Recommended duration
Although you have the whole of the 24- or 48-hour window to complete this, you don’t need to use all of this time. You will be given a recommended amount of time to complete your assessment within this time period.
This may show on your timetable as a block of time in minutes, for example 120 or 180 minutes. This is how much time you are recommended to spend in total on that assessment within the 24 or 48-hour time period. How you use your time within that window is up to you.
Extra time
Any extra time or rest periods are included within the 24 or 48-hour time period.
Set duration
Your assessment will begin when you choose to start it and will often automatically close at the end of the time period.
For example, if you have a 180-minute assessment, although you can start it at any point within the 24 or 48-hour period, once you begin the assessment, it will end after 180 minutes.
Extra time
Your extra time will be included by your school in the time you have to complete the assessment within the scheduled 24 or 48-hour time period.
Contact your school if you think the assessment duration on your timetable is incorrect.
If you’re not sure which assessment you’re taking, then contact your school.
Preparing for OTLAs
Prepare for OTLAs so that you know when to complete each assessment and you have all the resources you need to do your best work.
Use the library’s guidance and resources and read the blog ‘How to plan and use your time during online time-limited assessments’.
Consecutive online assessments
If you have consecutive online 48-hour assessments, you will be expected to plan to complete your assessments in the timeframe provided for each assessment.
We recommend you plan your workload in advance so you can complete all assessments in the allocated time.
Online assessments taking place at the same time
It is difficult to avoid 48-hour online assessments from taking place at the same time.
You will be expected to plan your workload in advance so that you can complete all assessments within the period allowed.
Taking online assesments outside of the UK
All assessments are scheduled using the GMT/BST time zones.
You will be expected to complete and submit your online time limited assessment by the GMT/BST deadline.
Getting support with exam arrangements
- Contact your school if you think the assessment duration on your timetable is incorrect.
- You should discuss any special arrangements or adjustments for your assessments with your module leader or school disability contact.
- If an unexpected event, like illness or bereavement, disrupts your ability to revise or take assessments, find out more about mitigating circumstances.
- If something unexpected happens just before your OTLA, contact your school.
More resources
Find guides and resources to help you with online submissions:
- Library’s advice on OTLAs
- Digital Education Systems: Student guide to assessment systems and online submissions
- AI guidance