AFAA GFI exam-day guide
AFAA GFI · Prepare for the day ahead.
Your checklist
Government-issued photo ID
Bring an unexpired ID with your name matching your registration exactly. Confirm the specific accepted ID types with the provider before test day.
Exam confirmation / authorization details
Have your registration confirmation, candidate number, or scheduling email accessible (printed or on phone). Confirm with the provider what they require you to present at check-in.
Know your test format and location
Confirm whether your practical is in person, and the exact address, room, and arrival time. If virtual, confirm the platform and any tech requirements with the provider.
Arrive early
Plan to arrive with buffer time to allow for check-in and settling. Confirm the provider's recommended arrival window and late-arrival policy.
Professional fitness attire
Wear clean, professional activewear you can move and demonstrate in comfortably, plus supportive training shoes.
Water and a light snack
Stay hydrated and fueled; practical tests involve physical demonstration. Confirm whether food/drink is allowed in the testing area.
Review key practical skills
Rehearse cueing, class formatting, exercise selection, and safety corrections so you can demonstrate and explain them confidently.
Prepare to demonstrate and explain
Be ready to both perform movements and verbalize form cues, modifications, and safety points clearly.
Know the scoring and passing criteria
Understand how you will be evaluated (skill demonstration, cueing, safety, professionalism). Confirm the exact rubric and passing standard with the provider.
Plan your travel and logistics
Map your route, account for traffic or transit delays, and identify parking or check-in entrances in advance.
Plan the day
Confirm all logistics with the provider (time, location or platform, ID requirements, what to bring). Do focused review of practical skills and cueing; practice demonstrating and explaining out loud. Prioritize sleep and avoid cramming new material.
Lay out attire, ID, confirmation, water, and snack. Reconfirm the start time and arrival instructions. Do a light review only, then rest; avoid strenuous training that could leave you sore or fatigued.
Eat a normal, balanced meal and hydrate. Arrive with buffer time, complete check-in, and take a few minutes to calm and focus. Review your cueing framework mentally, not intensely.
Listen carefully to instructions, demonstrate movements with safe and clear form, verbalize cues and modifications, and stay professional. Ask for clarification if an instruction is unclear, and manage your energy and pacing across the assessment.
Rules to check
Bring valid, unexpired photo ID matching your registration; confirm accepted ID types with the provider.
Follow all check-in, identification, and security procedures; confirm specifics with the provider.
Arrive on time; confirm the provider's late-arrival and rescheduling policies in advance.
Follow the assessor's instructions and demonstrate safe, professional conduct throughout.
Confirm the provider's policy on breaks, water, and leaving the testing area before the exam.
Understand the scoring rubric and passing standard; confirm exact criteria with the provider.
Do not use unauthorized aids, notes, or devices during the assessment; confirm what is permitted with the provider.
Maintain professional behavior and communication with assessors and other candidates.