HIA exam-day guide
HIA · Prepare for the day ahead.
Your checklist
Government-issued photo ID
Bring the exact form of ID the testing provider requires; the name must match your registration. Confirm acceptable ID types and name-match rules with the provider before test day.
Confirmation / appointment details
Have your scheduling confirmation, appointment time, and testing-center address or remote-proctoring link ready. Confirm the check-in window with the provider.
Know your test format and length
Review the official candidate handbook for number of questions, time limit, and whether breaks are offered. Confirm these specifics with the provider rather than relying on secondhand information.
Know the scoring and pass standard
Understand how the exam is scored and what constitutes a passing result. Confirm the current passing standard with the provider, as it can change.
Review allowed and prohibited items
Check the provider's list of permitted aids (e.g., calculator, scratch materials) and prohibited items (e.g., phones, notes, smartwatches). Policies vary by provider and delivery mode.
Plan your travel or setup
For a test center, plan to arrive with buffer time for check-in and security screening. For remote proctoring, test your equipment, camera, microphone, and internet in advance.
Rest and logistics the night before
Confirm your route or workspace, set alarms, and get adequate sleep. Avoid last-minute cramming that disrupts rest.
Light snacks and water if permitted
Confirm whether food and drink are allowed at the test center or during breaks; some centers restrict them to designated areas.
Read the full candidate agreement
Review the provider's rules on conduct, misconduct, and consequences. Confirm details with the provider; do not assume policies from other exams apply.
Backup plan for technology (remote)
If testing remotely, have a phone available for provider support and know the procedure if your connection drops. Confirm the provider's reconnect policy.
Plan the day
Re-read the official candidate handbook: format, timing, scoring, and rules. Confirm your appointment time, location or link, and ID requirements with the provider. Stop introducing new material; focus on consolidating weak areas and practicing under timed conditions.
Do a light review of key concepts and test-taking strategy only. Prepare your ID, confirmation, and any permitted items. Confirm travel or test your remote setup. Avoid heavy studying; prioritize sleep and a normal routine.
Eat a normal meal, arrive or log in early per the provider's check-in window, and bring only permitted items. Take a few minutes to settle and read instructions carefully before the timer starts.
Read each question fully, watch your pacing against the time limit, and flag uncertain items to revisit if the interface allows. Use breaks only as permitted. If a technical issue occurs, notify the proctor immediately and follow provider procedures.
Rules to check
Present valid, unexpired government-issued photo ID matching your registration name; confirm exact ID requirements with the provider.
Follow all proctor instructions and the candidate conduct agreement; misconduct can result in score cancellation or disqualification.
Leave prohibited items such as phones, notes, and smartwatches outside the testing area unless the provider expressly permits them.
Take breaks only when and as the provider allows; confirm break rules and whether the clock stops during breaks.
Do not communicate with others or use unauthorized aids during the exam; remote sessions may be recorded and monitored.
Understand that scoring and the passing standard are set by the provider and may be updated; confirm current details before test day.
If you experience a technical or personal issue during the test, notify the proctor immediately and follow the provider's documented procedure.
Confirm all policies-ID, breaks, permitted items, rescheduling, and scoring-directly with the provider, as they vary and can change.