AAOIFI CPSS exam-day guide
AAOIFI CPSS · Prepare for the day ahead.
Your checklist
Government-issued photo ID
Bring the original, unexpired ID (passport or national ID) in the name used for your registration. Confirm with the provider which forms of ID are accepted and whether a second ID is required.
Exam appointment confirmation
Print or save the confirmation email showing your appointment time, test centre address (or online proctoring link), and registration number.
Admission ticket / candidate number
If the provider issues a separate admission document, bring it. If you have not received one, confirm with the provider whether it is needed.
Approved calculator
Bring a silent, non-programmable calculator if permitted. Confirm with the provider the exact model policy; some centres provide on-screen calculators only.
Writing materials
Bring two pens and a pencil. Confirm with the provider whether paper and writing materials are supplied and whether personal notes are allowed.
Printed formula/reference sheet (if allowed)
Some exams provide a reference sheet; others prohibit all printed material. Confirm with the provider before bringing any printed sheet.
Water and a light snack
Bring a clear bottle of water and a snack for the break, subject to venue rules. Confirm with the provider whether food and drink are allowed at your desk.
Layer for room temperature
Test rooms can be cold. Wear or bring a light layer that complies with the provider's dress code.
Travel plan and backup route
Plan to arrive at least 30–45 minutes early. Check local transport and parking. For online proctoring, test your equipment and internet connection the day before.
Review logistics the day before
Re-read the provider's candidate handbook for arrival time, late-entry policy, and what happens if you are delayed. Confirm with the provider any point not covered in the handbook.
Personal items plan
Decide where you will store your phone, bag, and watch. Most centres require phones to be switched off and stored away from the desk; confirm with the provider.
Rest and nutrition plan
Prioritise sleep in the final 72 hours and eat a normal breakfast. Avoid new caffeine or medication routines on exam day.
Plan the day
Stop learning new topics. Review your own summary notes, formula sheet, and flagged weak areas. Do one timed practice set under exam conditions, then review errors only. Confirm exam logistics (venue, time, ID, permitted items) with the provider. Prepare your bag and clothes the night before the last day.
Light review only: skim key definitions, ratios, and contract structures. No new mock exams. Check travel route and weather. Set two alarms. Aim for a full night's sleep. Avoid intensive study after early evening.
Eat a normal breakfast. Re-check you have your ID, confirmation, and permitted items. Arrive at the centre 30–45 minutes early (or log in early for online proctoring). Avoid discussing exam content with other candidates. Use the restroom before entering the room.
Read the instructions and note the time allocation. Answer easy questions first, flag uncertain ones, and return to them. Watch the clock at the halfway and 15-minutes-remaining marks. If there is negative marking, only guess when you can eliminate at least one option; if not, answer every question. Use breaks only if permitted and return promptly.
Rules to check
Bring the original, valid photo ID in the name used at registration. Candidates without acceptable ID may be refused entry; confirm with the provider which IDs are accepted.
Arrive at the published time. Late candidates may not be admitted once the exam has started; confirm with the provider the exact late-entry cutoff.
Electronic devices, including phones and smartwatches, must be switched off and stored as directed. Unauthorised devices at the desk may lead to disqualification.
Do not communicate with other candidates during the exam and do not attempt to copy, photograph, or share exam content. Misconduct can result in invalidation of your result.
Follow the provider's rules on breaks. If breaks are allowed, you may be escorted and monitored; confirm with the provider whether unscheduled breaks are permitted and whether the clock stops.
Scoring policies, including whether wrong answers incur a penalty and the pass mark, are set by the provider. Confirm the current policy in the candidate handbook before exam day.
If you need to leave the room for medical reasons, raise your hand and wait for the invigilator. Do not leave personal items unattended.
After the exam, do not remove any exam materials. Results and any post-exam review process are governed by the provider's published policy.