Identifying Basedata

Basedata for a particular series consists of a set of linked files. The names of these files follow an agreed standard, with the first letter denoting what information the file contains.

When basedata is first downloaded from the exam board the file will begin with a Z. Files starting with a Z are zipped files that combine all the required basedata files into one single file. This file will need to be unzipped and the contents copied into the EXAMIN folder.

The files within the zipped folder will start with S, O, C, L or D. 

Files starting with an S detail the different types of syllabus on offer from the awarding body in this series.

Files starting within an O describe the options for each syllabus, such as different tiers.

Files starting with a C describe the tasks that will be available for each syllabus – the components.

Files starting with an L describe how the information in the S, O and C files are linked together.

Files starting with a D are also sometimes present to describe what examinations cannot be sat in the same series, known as disallowed combinations.

An example of a zipped file would be Z6A16_70.exe. Within the file will then be S6A16_70.exe, O6A16_70.exe, C6A16_70.exe, L6A16_70.exe and possibly D6A16_70.exe.

The remaining characters in the file name denote the month, series, year, language and exam board.

For example, Z6A16_70.exe would stand for the following:

This information can then be used to match your file to the correct exam board and season within Examinations organiser in order to be able to import.

Reviewed 07/04/2020