How to apply for a shorthand exam

Candidates on an NCTJ-accredited course

If your course structure includes shorthand, your centre will hold shorthand exams as appropriate. Please discuss available exam dates with your course leader or tutor. Exam bookings are made by the course provider

Candidates attached to an approved exam centre

Industry candidates whose employer (e.g. newspaper office) is also an approved exam centre, please discuss available exam dates with your employer. Exam bookings are made by the employer.

All other external candidates (i.e. off-course students, distance learners, non-NCTJ learners)

The NCTJ hold National shorthand exams on set dates across the academic calendar for external candidates. This is to provide a structure for learners to work towards sitting exams on guaranteed exam dates and to be able to plan your learning accordingly.

Details of all National dates available across 2020-21 academic year are provided below. You can book your exam via this page. Exam dates for 2021-22 academic year will be published in May 2021.