GCAA ATPL Theory exam-day guide
GCAA ATPL Theory · Prepare for the day ahead.
Your checklist
Valid photo ID (passport)
Bring the original passport you used on your application. Confirm with the provider which ID documents are accepted and whether a copy is needed.
Admission / appointment confirmation
Carry the printed or electronic confirmation of your exam booking, including date, time and centre address. Confirm with the provider whether a printed copy is required.
Exam-authorisation or candidate number
Have any candidate or authorisation number issued by the authority or provider available. Confirm with the provider what identifier they require at check-in.
Approved calculator
Bring a non-programmable calculator with fresh batteries. Confirm with the provider which calculator models are permitted and whether spares are allowed in the room.
Writing materials
Bring pens/pencils and an eraser if the provider permits them; some centres supply them. Confirm with the provider what is allowed on the desk.
Analogue watch or permitted timepiece
A simple watch helps you pace yourself if the screen clock is not visible. Confirm with the provider whether smart watches and phones must be stored away.
Printed formula sheet or reference material
Only if the provider explicitly allows it. Most computer-based sittings supply reference data on screen. Confirm with the provider.
Water and a light snack for breaks
Check the centre's rules on food and drink at the desk; some centres restrict items in the test room. Confirm with the provider.
Confirm centre location and travel plan
Re-check the address, arrival time and parking or public transport options the day before. Confirm with the provider if arrival time differs from the appointment time.
Medical/access arrangements confirmation
If you have approved extra time or other access arrangements, bring the confirmation letter. Confirm with the provider well in advance, as approval can take time.
Rest and logistics plan
Plan sleep, meals and travel so you arrive calm and early. This is personal preparation, not an official requirement.
Review weak topics only
Use light revision of known weak areas; avoid cramming new material in the last hours. This is study advice, not an official requirement.
Plan the day
Stop learning new material. Review summaries, formula sheets and your own error log. Confirm your appointment time, centre address and ID requirements with the provider.
Check that your calculator works and batteries are fresh. Pack ID, confirmation and permitted materials in one bag.
Do one timed practice set under exam-like conditions, then review mistakes briefly. Avoid late-night study.
Light review only. Confirm travel arrangements and set alarms. Aim for a normal night's sleep; avoid alcohol and heavy caffeine late in the day.
Eat a normal breakfast, arrive at the centre with time to spare, and bring your ID and confirmation. Re-read the provider's arrival instructions before leaving.
Follow the centre's ID and security procedures, store prohibited items as instructed, and ask staff about breaks and timing before you start.
Read each question fully, flag uncertain items and move on, then return to flagged questions if time allows. Watch the time and leave a buffer before the end.
Note which topics felt weak while it is fresh, and follow the provider's instructions on results release. Confirm with the provider how and when results are issued.
Rules to check
Bring the original photo ID accepted by the provider; entry may be refused without it. Confirm with the provider which documents are accepted.
Arrive before the stated reporting time; late arrival may mean refused entry or reduced time. Confirm with the provider how late arrivals are handled.
Store phones, smart watches and other prohibited devices as instructed; possession in the test room may be treated as misconduct. Confirm with the provider what is prohibited.
Follow all instructions from invigilators and do not communicate with other candidates during the test.
Ask about scheduled and unscheduled breaks before starting, and note whether the clock stops during breaks. Confirm with the provider.
Check the scoring and pass rules for your sitting (for example, whether subjects are scored separately and how resits work). Confirm with the provider.
If you believe there is a technical or procedural problem, raise it with the invigilator immediately rather than after leaving.
Do not attempt to record, copy or share exam content; doing so may invalidate your result and breach the provider's rules.