Day of the viva
Guidance for independent chairs
Ensure the External Examiners Right to Work check is completed before undertaking any work.
Viva Checklist
| Before the viva begins | |
|---|---|
| ✓ | Has the External Examiner completed their Right to Work check? |
| ✓ | Have Reasonable Adjustments been agreed and made? |
| ✓ | Have the Examiners discussed the questions to be asked? |
| ✓ | Does the External Examiner know the viva rules? |
| ✓ | Do the Supervisors (if present) know the rules of the viva (online or in-person)? |
| In-person viva | |
| ✓ | Is the room quiet and an appropriate size? |
| ✓ | Is there water available? |
| ✓ | Is the AV (if needed) set up correctly? |
| Online viva | |
| ✓ | Does everyone have a good internet connection and a quiet, secure space? |
| ✓ | Does the Internal Examiner have everyone’s phone number? |
During the viva, consider the following
- Make sure the Doctoral Researcher is comfortable
- Be aware of non-verbal communication
- Keep viva on track, keep an eye on time ensuring suitable breaks where necessary
- Keep notes about the delivery of the viva and conduct of examination/examiners
- Draw to close, excuse student and discuss outcome at the end.
Irregularities or issues during the viva
It is hoped that every viva goes well and as planned. If, however, there are any irregularities or issues that arise during the viva, we advise you take notes regarding the irregularity or issue and inform the Doctoral College Office (DCO) immediately following the examination. A Doctoral Researcher may have grounds for appealing the outcome of a viva if there is an irregularity, so notes from the viva can be helpful.
If you have a serious concern over the Doctoral Researcher’s wellbeing during or after the viva, please contact the DCO as soon as possible and discuss next steps. If you feel that the Doctoral Researcher is at immediate risk, stop the viva and speak to student services (+44 (0)1509 222765) to ensure the Doctoral Researcher is supported and notify the Doctoral Researchers supervisor(s).
If you have a question on the outcome of the viva, or need assistance with any other procedural issue, please contact the DCO (01509 228292) who will be able to help.