AAT Level 4 INAC exam-day guide
AAT Level 4 INAC · Prepare for the day ahead.
Your checklist
Photo ID
Bring the original, in-date photo identification your provider requires (commonly a passport or photocard driving licence). Confirm the exact accepted forms with your training provider before exam day.
Exam appointment confirmation
Have your booking confirmation (printed or on your phone) showing the exam code, date, time and test centre address, so staff can locate your booking quickly.
AAT student membership number
Note your membership number and keep it with your booking details; centres may ask for it when registering you. Confirm whether it is required at your centre.
Approved calculator
Bring a calculator that is permitted under the exam regulations. Confirm with your provider which models are allowed, and check batteries or use a solar/battery model. Some on-screen calculators may be available; confirm.
Pen and pencil
Bring a pen and pencil (and eraser) for any rough work or sign-in paperwork. Rough notes are usually not marked, but confirm the centre's rules on rough paper.
Exam regulations and candidate handbook
Read the current AAT exam regulations and your provider's candidate handbook so you know ID, conduct and permitted-items rules. Rules can change, so check the latest version.
Revision summary sheets
Bring concise, handwritten summary notes for a final review before you enter the exam room (you will not be able to take them in). Keep them short and focused on weak areas.
Travel plan and arrival time
Plan your route and aim to arrive with time to spare. Confirm the required arrival time with your provider; arriving late may mean you are not admitted.
Know the exam format and software
Be familiar with the on-screen exam software and the structure of the INAC assessment. If a practice/mock version is available through your provider, use it so the interface is familiar.
Water and a light snack
Bring water in a clear bottle and a snack for before or after the exam. Confirm whether drinks are allowed at your desk during the exam.
Watch or silent timer
A simple watch helps you pace yourself if the on-screen clock is not visible from your seat. Confirm whether watches are permitted in the exam room.
Contact details for the centre
Save the test centre's phone number in case of travel disruption. Confirm with the provider what to do if you are delayed or cannot attend.
Plan the day
Switch from learning new content to active recall: work through practice questions and past-paper-style tasks under timed conditions. Review your error log and target the two or three topic areas where you lose the most marks. Confirm your appointment time, venue and ID requirements with your provider.
Rehearse the exam software if a practice version is available, so you are comfortable with navigation, the formula/calculator tools and how to flag and revisit questions.
Do a light review of summary sheets only; avoid cramming new material. Pack your ID, booking confirmation and approved calculator. Check travel arrangements and set two alarms. Get a full night's sleep.
Eat a proper meal and arrive at the centre with time to spare. Do a short, calm review of key formulas and definitions only. Leave summary notes outside the exam room.
Follow the centre's registration and ID checks, store personal belongings as instructed, and listen carefully to the invigilator's briefing. Ask staff about anything unclear before the exam starts.
Read each question carefully and watch the clock; allocate time according to marks and leave time to review flagged questions. Show workings where required, and check that figures and narrative answers actually address what was asked.
If you get stuck, flag the question and move on rather than losing time. Return to it at the end. Use any on-screen tools (calculator, formula sheet, flagging) as permitted, and confirm your answers are saved/submitted before leaving.
Rules to check
Bring the original, valid photo ID specified by your provider; without acceptable ID you may be refused entry. Confirm the accepted forms and any name-change documentation with your provider.
Follow all invigilator instructions and the current exam regulations. Only bring permitted items into the exam room; personal belongings, phones and notes must be stored as directed.
Electronic devices such as phones and smart watches are generally not permitted in the exam room. Confirm the exact policy, including whether watches are allowed, with your provider.
Do not communicate with other candidates during the exam and do not attempt to access unauthorised materials; misconduct can lead to invalidation of your result.
If you need to leave the room (for example, for a comfort break), raise your hand and follow invigilator instructions. Confirm in advance whether breaks are permitted and whether the clock continues to run.
Scoring and results: marks are awarded for correct workings and answers as set out in the assessment specification. Confirm the pass mark, results timeline and any resit rules with your provider or AAT.
If you are unwell or cannot attend, contact your provider as soon as possible to discuss options. Confirm their policy on deferrals, cancellations and special consideration before exam day.
Arrive by the time stated in your booking confirmation. Confirm with your provider the latest arrival time and what happens if you are delayed.