ANZCA Primary exam-day guide
ANZCA Primary · Prepare for the day ahead.
Your checklist
Photo identification
Bring the current, valid photo ID specified in your ANZCA exam candidate information. Confirm the accepted ID type and any name-matching requirements with ANZCA before the exam day.
Exam admission/confirmation details
Carry your exam timetable, venue confirmation, and any admission letter or candidate number issued to you. Confirm exactly what ANZCA requires you to present at registration.
Venue and travel plan
Know the exact venue, room, entry point, and travel time. Do a dry run or check transport disruptions the day before. Allow a buffer for registration and ID checks.
Arrival time
Arrive earlier than the published reporting time so you are settled before the session starts. Confirm the required reporting time with ANZCA or the venue.
Approved personal items only
Bring only items the provider permits in the exam room (for example, water in a clear bottle if allowed). Confirm the permitted-items list with ANZCA.
Leave valuables and devices at home or in storage
Phones, smart watches, and other electronic devices are normally not permitted in the exam room. Confirm the provider's device and storage policy.
Rest, food, and hydration plan
Plan a normal meal, hydration, and sleep routine. Avoid trying new caffeine or medication doses on exam day.
Review logistics, not new content
In the final days, consolidate familiar material and rehearse your approach to common stations or question types. Do not start new topics late.
Backup plan for disruption
Have the provider's contact details and know what to do if you are delayed, unwell, or unable to attend. Confirm the illness and absence policy with ANZCA in advance.
Practice run-through
Do at least one timed rehearsal under exam-like conditions, including how you will structure answers or station encounters and manage time.
Plan the day
Confirm venue, reporting time, ID requirements, and permitted items with ANZCA or the venue. Check travel and accommodation. Stop introducing new material and focus on high-yield consolidation and structured practice.
Do a final timed practice session and review your own notes on recurring weaknesses. Prepare clothing, ID, confirmation documents, and any permitted items in one place.
Light review only. Check the weather and travel disruptions. Set alarms, eat a normal meal, and prioritise sleep. Avoid intensive cramming and late-night study.
Eat a normal breakfast, hydrate, and arrive with time to spare. Leave devices and valuables as required. Follow registration and ID-check instructions exactly.
Read instructions carefully, note the time available, and pace yourself. If you are unsure of a station or question, move on and return if time allows. Use any scheduled breaks as instructed and stay within exam conduct rules.
Do not discuss specific exam content with other candidates in ways that breach confidentiality rules. Note any incident or illness and follow the provider's process for reporting it promptly.
Rules to check
Follow all instructions from exam supervisors and invigilators. If an instruction is unclear, ask before the session begins.
Present the identification and admission documents required by ANZCA. Confirm the accepted ID and name-matching rules with the provider beforehand.
Do not bring unauthorised electronic devices, notes, or materials into the exam room. Confirm the permitted-items list with ANZCA.
Use only breaks that are scheduled or approved by the supervisor. Confirm the break policy for your specific exam format with the provider.
Maintain exam confidentiality. Do not record, copy, or share exam content, and do not communicate with other candidates during the session.
If you feel unwell or experience a disruption, notify a supervisor immediately and follow the provider's incident-reporting process.
Scoring and pass standards are set by ANZCA. Do not rely on rumour or third-party estimates; confirm how your exam is marked and reported with the provider.
If you are late, unwell, or unable to attend, contact the provider as soon as possible. Confirm the late-arrival and absence policy with ANZCA in advance.