APM Project Risk Management Level 1 exam-day guide
APM Project Risk Management Level 1 · Prepare for the day ahead.
Your checklist
Confirm exam appointment details
Re-check the date, start time, time zone, and delivery format (test centre or remote proctored) on your booking confirmation. If anything is unclear, confirm with the provider rather than assuming.
Valid photo ID
Bring the exact ID type and name spelling the provider requires. Acceptable ID types vary by provider and country, so confirm with the provider which documents are accepted.
Booking confirmation / candidate number
Have your booking reference or candidate number available in case staff ask for it at check-in.
Know the syllabus and question format
Be clear on the exam's structure (number of questions, question styles, and time allowed). Confirm the current format with the provider, as it can change between sessions.
Confirm permitted materials
Find out in advance whether any reference material, formula sheet, or calculator is allowed. Do not bring unauthorised items into the exam room; confirm with the provider what is permitted.
Check the venue or remote-setup requirements
For a test centre, plan the route and arrival time. For remote proctoring, test your camera, microphone, internet connection, and room setup beforehand, and confirm the technical requirements with the provider.
Plan arrival with a buffer
Arrive with time to spare for check-in and security. The required arrival margin varies, so confirm with the provider how early you should arrive.
Rest and logistics the day before
Sort travel, parking, and a light meal so the morning is low-stress. Prioritise sleep over last-minute cramming.
Review risk-management fundamentals only
In the final day, skim core concepts (risk identification, assessment, response planning, ownership, and monitoring) rather than learning new material.
Know the scoring and pass criteria
Understand how the exam is scored and what constitutes a pass. The exact pass mark and scoring method should be confirmed with the provider.
Prepare for breaks and timing
Check in advance whether breaks are allowed and how they affect your time. Confirm break rules with the provider.
Read the candidate handbook
The provider's handbook is the authoritative source on conduct, ID, and allowed items; use it to resolve any uncertainty.
Plan the day
Do a structured review of the syllabus, focusing on weaker areas. Complete one or two timed practice sets to rehearse pace, then stop heavy study and protect your sleep.
Light revision only: skim key definitions and process steps. Reconfirm time, venue or remote setup, and ID requirements. Prepare clothes, ID, and travel plan, and get an early night.
Eat a normal meal, arrive early or start your remote check-in with a buffer, and avoid last-minute cramming. Do a final check that you have your ID and booking details.
Read each question carefully, watch the clock, and flag uncertain items to revisit. Answer every question if there is no penalty for guessing (confirm the scoring rules with the provider). Use remaining time to review flagged items.
Rules to check
Bring only permitted items into the exam room; confirm the allowed-items list with the provider before exam day.
Present the ID required by the provider; if your ID does not match the booking name, raise it with the provider before the exam.
Follow all instructions from invigilators or proctors, including any room, camera, or desk-clearance requirements.
Do not communicate with other candidates or use unauthorised devices or materials during the exam.
Confirm the provider's policy on breaks in advance, including whether breaks are allowed and how they affect your time.
Understand the scoring and pass criteria before you sit the exam; confirm the exact pass mark and any negative-marking rules with the provider.
If you experience a technical or personal issue during the exam, notify the invigilator or proctor immediately and follow their instructions.
Resolve any uncertainty about conduct, ID, or materials by checking the provider's candidate handbook or contacting the provider directly.