Arab Board EM Part 1 exam-day guide
Arab Board EM Part 1 · Prepare for the day ahead.
Your checklist
Government-issued photo ID
Bring the original ID (e.g., passport or national ID) whose details match your application. Confirm with the provider which specific ID types are accepted and whether a copy is permitted.
Admission permit / exam confirmation
Print or download the admission document showing your candidate number, date, time, and venue. Confirm with the provider whether a printed copy is mandatory.
Venue and reporting time confirmed
Verify the exact building, room, and reporting time at least a week ahead. Confirm with the provider if the venue or timing has changed.
Travel and accommodation plan
Plan to arrive the day before if travelling. Choose accommodation within easy reach of the venue and check local transport options.
Permitted stationery
Bring pens/pencils and an eraser if the exam uses paper answer sheets. Confirm with the provider the exact list of permitted items, since some exams supply materials.
No prohibited electronics
Leave phones, smartwatches, and other devices outside the exam room or switched off as instructed. Confirm with the provider the policy on storage of personal items.
Water and a light snack
Bring water in a clear container and a snack for scheduled breaks, if permitted. Confirm with the provider whether food and drink are allowed at your desk.
Watch (non-smart)
A simple analogue or digital watch can help you pace yourself if the room clock is not visible. Confirm with the provider whether watches are permitted.
Review the exam format and blueprint
Know the number of questions, timing, and whether the paper is single-best-answer or includes other formats. Confirm with the provider the current format and scoring rules.
Rest and health preparation
Protect sleep in the final week, eat normally, and plan for any chronic medication or accessibility needs. Confirm with the provider in advance if you need special arrangements.
Plan the day
Stop learning new material. Review high-yield summaries, normal values, and your own error log. Confirm venue, reporting time, and travel plans. Pack your ID, admission document, and stationery.
Do a light review only. Check the route and journey time to the venue. Prepare clothes and documents. Set two alarms. Aim for a full night's sleep.
Eat a normal breakfast, arrive early with your documents, and avoid last-minute cramming. Follow staff instructions for registration and seating.
Read each question carefully, answer easy items first, flag uncertain ones, and return to them. Keep an eye on time and ensure answers are transferred correctly. Use scheduled breaks as instructed.
Rules to check
Bring original photo ID matching your application; confirm with the provider which documents are accepted.
Arrive at the reporting time stated on your admission document; confirm with the provider the late-entry policy.
Do not bring phones, smartwatches, or unauthorised materials into the exam room; follow staff instructions for storage.
Follow all invigilator instructions and remain seated until told otherwise; confirm with the provider the rules on leaving the room during the exam.
Breaks are only at times announced by the invigilator; confirm with the provider whether unscheduled breaks are allowed.
Answer all questions unless the format penalises wrong answers; confirm with the provider the scoring and negative-marking policy.
Do not communicate with other candidates during the exam; any misconduct may lead to invalidation, per the provider's regulations.
If you have a disability or medical need, request accommodations well in advance and confirm with the provider what evidence is required.