COSC exam-day guide
COSC · Prepare for the day ahead.
Your checklist
Government-issued photo ID
Bring the original ID used at registration. Confirm accepted ID forms and name-match rules with the provider.
Admission ticket or confirmation email
Save an offline copy and print one if the provider requires paper. Confirm whether a printed copy is mandatory.
Test center address and arrival instructions
Verify the exact location, entrance, and recommended arrival time on your official confirmation.
Approved calculator
Bring only if the provider permits calculators. Confirm allowed models and whether graphing or programmable calculators are prohibited.
Pens, pencils, and eraser
Confirm whether the test center supplies writing materials or whether you must bring your own.
Simple watch without smart features
Confirm whether a watch is allowed. If not, rely on the on-screen timer or proctor time checks.
Water and a snack for the break
Confirm break policy and whether food or drink is allowed at your seat or only in designated areas.
Layers of clothing
Dress for a room that may be warmer or cooler than expected; avoid clothing with inappropriate text or symbols.
Provider phone number and emergency contact
Save the test center or provider contact so you can report delays, illness, or technical problems promptly.
Written summary of conduct and scoring rules
Review the provider’s rules on electronics, breaks, and whether incorrect answers affect scoring before test day.
Backup transportation plan
Plan to arrive early and identify a fallback route in case of transit delays or parking problems.
Plan the day
Confirm registration status, test center location, ID requirements, and allowed materials with the provider. Download or print your admission ticket. Take one timed practice section, review your error log, and stop studying new topics.
Pack your bag with required documents and permitted items. Set out ID and admission ticket. Confirm alarms and travel plans. Do only light review, avoid new material, and prioritize sleep.
Eat a normal meal, arrive early, and allow extra time for check-in. Use the restroom before entering. Keep conversation with other candidates minimal and follow proctor instructions.
Read instructions carefully, note the time limit, and set a steady pace. Flag difficult questions and return to them. Use only permitted breaks, and raise your hand immediately if a technical issue occurs.
Rules to check
Bring ID that exactly matches your registration. Confirm acceptable ID forms with the provider before test day.
Place phones, smart watches, notes, and other unauthorized items in the designated area. Follow all proctor instructions about what may be kept at your seat.
Do not communicate with other candidates during the test. If you need assistance, raise your hand and wait for the proctor.
Confirm the provider’s break policy in advance, including whether unscheduled breaks are allowed and whether the timer continues during breaks.
Confirm whether incorrect or unanswered questions affect scoring. If there is no penalty, answer every question; if there is a penalty, answer only when you can make an informed choice.
If equipment fails or the test session is interrupted, stop and notify the proctor immediately. Do not attempt to troubleshoot alone.
Follow the provider’s rules on food, drink, restroom use, and movement within the testing room.
Report any irregularity or rule violation to the proctor and the provider after the test.