Thesis by publication (TBP) is well-established in some geographic and disciplinary contexts, but is still emerging in others. The unique challenges of the TBP for doctoral researchers and supervisors have been well-covered in recent studies, but there has been limited attention given to examiners, despite the high stakes of the examination process for doctoral researchers. Because examination often involves researchers from different countries, variation in the conceptualisation and position of the TBP in different contexts may impact the way examiners approach examination, and what factors they consider and value. In this study we investigate how 79 researchers in and from 30 different countries approach examination of a TBP. The findings may serve to assist other examiners, to help doctoral researchers and supervisors prepare for the examination process and guide institutional policy-makers on how they can improve their procedures, making the process smoother and more transparent for all involved.