AHLEI CHSP exam-day guide
AHLEI CHSP · Prepare for the day ahead.
Your checklist
Government-issued photo ID
Bring the original, unexpired ID in the name you registered under. Confirm with the provider which ID types are accepted and whether a secondary ID is required.
Exam appointment confirmation
Print or save the confirmation email/letter with your test date, time, location or online-access link, and any candidate/registration number.
Login and system check for remote testing
If testing online, verify your account credentials and run any required equipment/system check in advance. Confirm with the provider the exact platform, browser, and webcam/microphone requirements.
Quiet, private test space
For remote exams, arrange a distraction-free room and inform household members. Confirm with the provider the rules on room scans, cleared desks, and permitted items.
Permitted items only
Bring only what the provider allows. Confirm with the provider whether scratch paper, pens, calculators, or notes are permitted, since policies vary by delivery method.
Comfort and timing logistics
Plan travel time, parking, or transit, and note the arrival/check-in window. Confirm with the provider how early to arrive and the late-arrival policy.
Review the candidate handbook/agreement
Read the provider's current candidate handbook for conduct, scoring, rescheduling, and accommodation rules. Confirm details with the provider rather than relying on secondhand information.
Request any accommodations in advance
If you need testing accommodations, confirm with the provider the request process and deadline; these are typically arranged before exam day, not on the day.
Know your scoring and results process
Confirm with the provider the passing standard, how and when results are reported, and any retake policy.
Backup plan for technology
For remote testing, have a charged device and reliable internet, and know the provider's support contact. Confirm with the provider what to do if the connection fails mid-exam.
Plan the day
Re-read the provider's candidate handbook and confirm your appointment details, ID requirements, and permitted items. Do light review of weak topic areas rather than cramming new material. Confirm travel or remote-setup logistics and get consistent sleep.
Lay out your ID, confirmation, and any permitted items. For remote testing, run the system/equipment check and confirm your login works. Confirm the start time and location or link, set alarms, and avoid heavy last-minute study.
Eat a normal meal, arrive or log in with buffer time per the provider's instructions, and bring only permitted items. Do a brief calm review of key frameworks, not new content. Keep your ID and confirmation within reach for check-in.
Read each question fully, watch for qualifiers like 'best' or 'except', and pace yourself against the number of questions and time allowed. Flag uncertain items and return to them if the platform permits. Use breaks only as the provider allows, and manage your time so you answer every question.
Rules to check
Bring valid, unexpired government-issued photo ID matching your registration name; confirm with the provider which ID types are accepted.
Follow all check-in, identity-verification, and proctoring instructions; confirm with the provider the specific procedures for your delivery method.
Bring and use only items the provider permits; confirm with the provider what is allowed (for example, notes, calculators, or scratch paper).
Breaks, if any, follow the provider's rules; confirm with the provider whether breaks are scheduled, optional, or affect your testing time.
Scoring and the passing standard are set by the provider; confirm with the provider how results are calculated and reported.
Rescheduling, cancellation, and retake policies are set by the provider; confirm with the provider the deadlines and any fees.
Report any technical problem or irregularity to the proctor or provider support immediately; confirm with the provider the process for documenting issues.
Maintain academic integrity: no unauthorized communication, assistance, or materials during the exam, per the provider's candidate agreement.