ACCA AA exam-day guide
ACCA AA · Prepare for the day ahead.
Your checklist
Photo ID
Bring the exact form of identification the exam provider requires (commonly a valid passport or photo driving licence). Check the specific requirements for your centre and the name must match your exam entry - confirm with the provider if unsure.
Exam appointment confirmation
Have your booking confirmation or candidate number available. Bring a printed copy if the provider instructs you to; otherwise keep a digital copy accessible.
Know your exam format and section timings
AA is assessed in sections with different question types. Practise allocating time per section so you can pace yourself; confirm the exact structure and duration with the provider.
Approved calculator
Bring a calculator that meets the provider's rules (non-programmable, no stored text). Confirm the permitted model list with the provider.
Pens and pencils
Bring spare pens and a pencil; for computer-based exams you may be given rough paper and a pen, so check what is supplied versus what you must bring.
Watch or time awareness
If a watch is permitted, bring a simple non-smart watch. Confirm the provider's rules on watches before the day.
Know your centre location and travel plan
Confirm the venue, arrival time and route in advance, allowing extra time for delays. Arrival cut-off times vary - check yours with the provider.
Review the syllabus areas and command words
Be clear on the examinable topics and how command words (explain, describe, evaluate) shape the depth of answer required.
Practise under timed conditions
Complete at least one full past-style paper to time before the exam so you know your pacing.
Plan for rough work and layouts
Know how you will lay out workings and answers so markers can follow your reasoning; for computer-based exams, familiarise yourself with the on-screen tools.
Personal essentials
Bring water and any permitted medication; check the provider's policy on food, drink and personal items in the exam room.
Needs review: specific ID and arrival policies
ID types, arrival windows and prohibited items are set by the provider and can change - confirm the current rules with the provider before exam day.
Plan the day
Do a final pass over the syllabus, focusing on weaker areas. Complete one timed practice paper and review your errors. Rehearse the section time allocations you will use. Stop learning new material in the last day and consolidate instead.
Light revision only: skim summary notes, key definitions and command words. Prepare your bag (ID, confirmation, calculator, pens). Confirm travel and arrival time. Get a full night's sleep; avoid last-minute cramming that leaves you tired.
Eat a proper meal, arrive at the centre with time to spare, and re-check you have your ID and confirmation. Stay calm and avoid comparing preparation with other candidates. Follow the invigilator's instructions on storing personal items.
Read the instructions, check the number of questions and marks, and note your time plan. If the format allows, start with questions you are confident about to secure marks early.
Keep to your time allocation per question or section. Write in clear, structured points, show workings, and use the command word to judge depth. If stuck, move on and return later.
Check you have attempted every question and that workings and answers are legible. Use remaining time to review rather than to start new long answers.
Note which topics felt weak for future study, but avoid dwelling on specific questions. Results and any re-sit options are set by the provider - check their published timelines.
Rules to check
Bring the identification the provider requires and ensure the name matches your exam entry; if it does not, contact the provider before the exam.
Follow all invigilator instructions, including where to store bags, phones and other personal items; electronic devices are typically not permitted in the exam room.
Do not communicate with other candidates during the exam and do not take any exam materials out of the room.
Breaks are generally not permitted during the exam; if you need to leave the room, raise your hand and follow invigilator instructions. Confirm the provider's policy on breaks and access arrangements.
Access arrangements (extra time, separate room, medical needs) must usually be requested in advance - confirm the process and deadlines with the provider.
Marks are awarded for relevant, well-structured answers; show workings where calculations are required and answer the question actually asked.
If you believe there is a problem with the exam or your circumstances, report it to the invigilator at the time and follow the provider's extenuating-circumstances process afterwards.
Scoring, pass marks and result dates are set by the provider - confirm the current pass standard and results timeline with the provider rather than relying on memory.