On 19 August 2024, FIFA introduced new rules for examining players' agents. This examination, essential for obtaining a FIFA agent's license, guarantees high standards of integrity and fairness in the profession. Here is an overview of the main rules and procedures for the next FIFA Agent Exam.
General rules
Article 1: Objectives
The objectives of these rules are to:
- Set clear guidelines for the Exam.
- Ensure transparency in the Exam procedure.
- Promote honest behavior among Candidates.
- Ensure fairness and consistency in the Exam process.
Explanation: FIFA seeks to maintain a transparent and fair process for candidates taking the exam, ensuring all participants act ethically.
Pre-exam procedure
Article 2: General Provisions
- Candidates applying for the licence via the platform must agree to follow these rules.
- Application deadlines are based on Zurich time; other time zones will not be considered.
- Candidates may request a change of Host Association once, but only before the application deadline.
Explanation: Candidates are bound by FIFA’s timeline and must make sure they choose the correct Host Association within the given period.
Article 3: Participation in Exams
- Only Approved Candidates may sit the Exam, after their identity has been verified.
- Any Exam Fee must be paid directly to the Host Association.
- Candidates must bring:
- A valid photo ID.
- A compatible device.
- If necessary, a mobile hotspot.
- Proof of payment for the Exam Fee (if applicable).
- Host Associations will confirm candidates’ identity and verify their devices before allowing them to take the Exam.
- Candidates who fail to meet these requirements may be disqualified from the Exam.
Explanation: Candidates must ensure they are fully prepared before attending the Exam, including having proper identification and a functioning device.
Article 4: Device Requirements
- Candidates’ devices must be compatible with the Exam platform.
- A Practice Exam is available to test device and hotspot compatibility.
- If a candidate’s device malfunctions during the Exam, they will be disqualified.
Explanation: Candidates need to test their devices ahead of time to avoid disqualification due to technical issues during the Exam.
Article 5: Hotspot Requirements
- If the Host Association does not provide internet access, candidates must bring their own hotspot.
- Mobile devices cannot be used as hotspots and must remain off during the Exam.
- If the internet connection fails and no answers are recorded, the attempt is void.
Explanation: Candidates must ensure they have a reliable internet connection to complete the Exam. Mobile devices cannot be used as backup hotspots during the session.
Article 6: Use of Items During the Exam
- Candidates may bring the following Allowed Items:
- Prescription glasses.
- Study materials (electronic or printed).
- Calculators.
- Medical aids (with prior approval).
- Prohibited Items include:
- Communication devices (phones, smartwatches, tablets).
- Headphones, earplugs, or other audio equipment.
- Any device or software that could give an unfair advantage.
Explanation: Only essential items like study materials and calculators are allowed, and strict rules prohibit any communication devices to maintain fairness.
Exam procedure
Article 7: General Provisions
- Candidates must follow the instructions of the Host Association and Invigilators.
- No candidates will be admitted once the Exam starts.
Explanation: Timing and adherence to instructions are crucial to ensuring that the Exam runs smoothly and fairly.
Article 8: Rules of Conduct
- Candidates must behave honestly and with integrity.
- Prohibited behaviours include:
- Using unapproved devices.
- Communicating with others during the Exam.
- Cheating, copying, or impersonating another candidate.
- Recording or distributing the Exam questions.
- Candidates caught violating these rules will be disqualified and may be barred from future exams.
Explanation: Clear behavioural standards are in place to ensure that the Exam remains fair and that candidates do not gain an unfair advantage.
Disclosure of exam results
Article 12: Exam Results
- Results will be communicated via the platform and email within seven days.
- Candidates who violate the rules will have their results cancelled.
- Candidates who fail may review their answers for four days and request a review.
Explanation: Results are issued quickly, but any breaches of the rules lead to automatic disqualification. Failed candidates can review their answers for possible corrections.
Article 13: Grading
- Only fully correct answers will receive full marks.
- There are no partial marks, and incorrect answers do not result in point deductions.
Explanation: The grading system is strict, with no partial credit for partially correct answers. However, incorrect answers do not lead to penalties.
Final provisions
Article 14: Abuse of Rules
- Any violations of these rules by individuals or Host Associations must be reported to FIFA.
Explanation: Reporting violations helps maintain the integrity of the Exam process.
Article 15: Matters Not Provided For
- Any issues not covered by the rules will be decided by the Host Association or FIFA.
Explanation: This provides flexibility for resolving unforeseen circumstances, with FIFA making the final decision.
Article 16: Enforcement
- These rules come into effect on November 2024, superseding any previous versions.
Explanation: The new rules officially take effect in November 2024 and will be the guiding principles for all subsequent exams.
Useful resources
- 10 tips for passing the FIFA exam
- FIFA November 2024 exam: Complete guide for candidates
- And of course, our FIFA agent prep course
