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Role Scenario Assessment

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The Role Scenario Assessment (RSA) exam replaces the Technical Role Simulation (TRS) exam as part of the Level 4 Professional Accounting Technician apprenticeship.  

The RSA examination is required by version 1.2 of the Level 4 Professional Accounting Technician Apprenticeship.

RSA is a computer based exam (CBE).  It is a 150 minute closed-book exam, which consists of four tasks.  It uses similar technology to that used in the workplace including a specially designed spreadsheet and word processor.

RSA has a pre-seen element.  The pre-seen will be released in advance of the exam sitting so you can familiarise yourself with the business on which the RSA exam is based.

To help you prepare for RSA we have produced the below resources:

The syllabus details the learning outcomes which are examinable within the RSA exam.

The examiner’s approach article provides more details of the structure of the RSA exam, explains what is expected of candidates and includes advice on how to answer tasks.

To help you understand the exam structure, we've provided a full specimen exam with sample questions so you can familiarise yourself with the exam style and environment.

The examiner has provided a debrief of some of the specimen paper. This is not a full debrief, as the example marking guide shows a full and complete solution to the exam. This video should be reviewed in conjunction with the specimen exam and answers.

Specimen debrief - task 1

This video includes an overview of task 1, including recommended timings and approach. It then includes a detailed debrief of task 1a and 1b and a short high-level review of task 1c.

Specimen debrief - task 2

This video includes an overview of task 2, including recommended timings and approach. It then includes debrief of each of the parts of the task.

Specimen debrief - task 3

This video includes an overview of task 3, including recommended timings and approach. It then includes a detailed debrief of part 3b of the task.

Specimen debrief - task 4

This video includes an overview of task 4, including recommended timings and approach. It then includes a debrief of both parts of the task.

Preparing you for your exam

Before your exam

This video explains the exam instruction screens you will see when you before you commence your exam.

Using your workspace effectively

This video discusses how you can develop a strategy for effectively managing the workspace in your exam. It covers:

  • the functionality of the workspace; and
  • tips to navigate and use the workspace in the most effective way.
First steps when your exam starts

This video focuses on effective time management, the order to approach the exam and navigating within the system. 

Planning and completing your exam

This video focuses on your approach to completing the exam. This includes:

  • How to effectively read the tasks
  • Using the response options, including pre-formats
  • How to use the exhibits when answering tasks
  • Reviewing your answers

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