ACCA ATX exam-day guide
ACCA ATX · Prepare for the day ahead.
Your checklist
Photo ID accepted by ACCA
Bring the original photo ID specified in your admission details. Accepted forms can vary by centre and exam mode, so [needs_review] confirm with ACCA or the test provider which ID is valid before exam day.
Exam appointment confirmation
Have your appointment or confirmation details available as instructed. [needs_review] Confirm whether a printed copy is required or whether digital or centre-lookup confirmation is accepted.
Approved calculator
Use a calculator permitted by ACCA and check the model against the provider's approved list. [needs_review] Confirm spare-battery and loan-calculator rules with the centre.
Pens, pencil and highlighter
For computer-based exams, confirm what stationery the centre supplies. [needs_review] Pack only items the provider allows in the exam room.
Simple watch or time-management method
A basic watch can help if the on-screen clock is not easily visible; smartwatches are not allowed. [needs_review] Confirm whether a watch may be worn or placed on the desk.
Travel and arrival plan
Plan your route, backup transport and arrival time. Aim to arrive with a buffer; [needs_review] confirm the provider's recommended arrival time and late-arrival policy.
Phone and notifications off
Switch your phone fully off and store it as directed. Do not keep it on your person if the rules prohibit this.
Water, snack and medication
[needs_review] Confirm centre policy on drinks, snacks and permitted medication, and ask about access arrangements if you need them.
Candidate/ACCA number and centre details
Know your ACCA candidate number and venue or remote-session details, and check they match your appointment.
Revision notes left outside
Do not take notes, textbooks or unauthorised papers into the exam room. Leave them in a bag outside if permitted.
Remote invigilation setup, if applicable
[needs_review] If sitting remotely, confirm the system test, room requirements, ID check and backup internet/device arrangements with the provider.
Read the on-screen instructions
At the desk, read the CBE instructions and check you can use the spreadsheet and word-processing tools before the timer starts, if permitted.
Plan the day
Confirm appointment, ID, calculator and travel. Take one full timed mock under exam conditions. Review key tax rates, allowances, reliefs and weak areas. Avoid late-night cramming and pack your bag early.
Do light revision only: key rates, reliefs, administration points and exam format. Check provider instructions. Prepare clothes, food, ID and confirmation details. Sleep properly and avoid new topics.
Eat and arrive early. Keep notes outside the exam room. Follow ID and security checks. Use waiting time for calm breathing rather than group discussion.
Read the instructions, scan all questions and plan your order and time by mark weighting. Note key tax issues. If reading time is separate, do not start writing until allowed.
If 15 minutes reading time is included, you have about 180 minutes of writing time for 100 marks, so roughly 1.8 minutes per mark. Confirm the timing on screen. Answer required questions, choose optional questions carefully, show workings and monitor the clock.
Check you have answered the required number of questions, there are no blank areas, workings are visible and your answers are saved or submitted before time.
Rules to check
Follow all invigilator and provider instructions; rules can differ by centre and by onsite or remote exam mode.
Bring only permitted items. Unauthorised notes, phones and smart devices must be switched off and stored as directed.
Present the original ID required by ACCA. [needs_review] Confirm accepted forms and name-match rules with the provider.
[needs_review] Confirm whether comfort breaks are allowed and how they affect exam time; do not assume the clock stops.
If you have a technical issue, raise your hand immediately and follow staff instructions; do not attempt repairs or leave your desk.
[needs_review] Confirm late-arrival and misconduct policies with ACCA or the provider; these can affect admission or results.
ATX is marked out of 100 and the pass mark is 50; allocate effort by marks rather than by question order.
Show workings and label answers clearly; if using CBE tools, check that formulas and values are visible to the marker.