What to expect on exam day?
If you’re preparing to take your exams, there are a few important things to keep in mind. Below are some common questions answered to help you feel organised, prepared, and confident on the day of your exam.
What time should I arrive?
Aim to arrive at least 15 minutes before your exam starts. However, always check with your school, college or exam centre, as some may require you to arrive earlier or will give you a specific arrival time.
The benefit of arriving early gives you time to settle in, mentally prepare, and avoid unnecessary stress before the exam begins. You may also want to use this time for some last-minute revision.
What can I bring into my exam?
- Your stationery in a clear/see-through pencil case
- Black ink or black ballpoint pens (bring a spare in case one runs out)
- Pencil and a rubber, only for graphs and diagrams
- Calculator, if required for your exam
- A plain water bottle with labels removed
What can't I bring into my exam?
- Electronic devices including mobile phones or smart watches
- Notes or revision material
- Food or drinks (that aren’t clear water)
- Correction fluid such as ‘Tipp-Ex’ or ‘White Out’ - if you make a mistake draw a neat line through the work
What happens when I enter the exam hall?
- Find your assigned seat
- Be sure to remain quiet and not talk to other learners once in the hall, you may be faced with a penalty if you do this
- Do not open the exam paper until the time begins, your invigilator will tell you when you can begin
- Remember to put your full name on the front of the paper where asked, and your candidate number. You should also include your centre number which will be made available by the invigilator.
What if I have accessibility needs?
If you have reasonable adjustments or accessibility needs, your school/college should be made aware of this prior to your exam and have prepared accordingly.
Accessibility needs can look like:
- A separate or smaller room
What should I do after I finish my exam?
Even if you finish your exam early, you must remain seated until the invigilator tells you that you may leave the exam hall.
Use any remaining time to:
- Read through your answers carefully
- Check for spelling, punctuation, and grammar mistakes
- Make sure you have answered all required questions
- Confirm that your name, candidate number, and centre number are completed correctly
When the exam ends, be sure to remain quiet while all papers are collected and wait for instructions before leaving the room.
If you are unsure of anything prior to the exam, seek guidance from a teacher or an invigilator.
For more information on what to expect on exam day, be sure to visit our ‘Malpractice’ page.