Arista ACE-S Automation (Foundations) exam-day guide
Arista ACE-S Automation (Foundations) · Prepare for the day ahead.
Your checklist
Government-issued photo ID
Bring the original, physical ID (passport or driver's license) whose name matches your registration exactly. Confirm with the provider which ID types are accepted and whether a digital copy is allowed.
Appointment confirmation and login details
Have your exam confirmation email, candidate/registration ID, and portal credentials accessible. Verify the exact start time and time zone on the confirmation.
Webcam and microphone that work
If testing online with remote proctoring, test your camera, mic, and speakers beforehand. Confirm with the provider whether an external webcam is required or a built-in one is acceptable.
Stable internet connection
Use a wired or reliable connection and have a backup plan (e.g., mobile hotspot) in case of outage. Confirm with the provider what happens if connectivity drops mid-exam.
Compatible browser and clean desktop
Check the provider's system requirements and browser version. Close all other applications and tabs; remote-proctored sessions often require a locked-down browser.
Quiet, private, well-lit room
For online proctoring, use a room with no other people, a clear desk, and adequate lighting. Confirm with the provider whether a 360-degree room scan is required at check-in.
Know the allowed resources
Determine in advance whether the exam is open-book or closed-book and whether notes, documentation, or a whiteboard are permitted. Confirm with the provider; do not assume.
Scratch materials policy
If an on-site test center, confirm whether scratch paper and a pen are provided. If online, confirm whether a physical whiteboard or on-screen notepad is allowed.
Review the exam blueprint and objectives
Re-read the official topic outline so you know the weighting of automation, configuration management, and API/network-programming domains. The blueprint is the best guide to what to study.
Confirm break and timing rules
Know the total seat time and whether scheduled or unscheduled breaks are allowed. Confirm with the provider whether the clock stops during breaks.
Confirm scoring and result delivery
Know the passing score, whether results are immediate or delayed, and how retakes work. Verify these specifics with the provider rather than relying on secondhand information.
Plan arrival or log-in buffer
Arrive at the test center or log in early (typically 15-30 minutes) to complete check-in and identity verification without stress. Confirm the exact buffer with the provider.
Plan the day
Finish your review of the official exam blueprint. Re-read your own notes and hands-on lab summaries; do not start new topics. Take one timed practice set if you have not already, and review only the missed concepts.
Verify your appointment details, test-center address or online check-in link, and the ID you will present. Resolve any name or scheduling discrepancies now, not on exam day.
Run a full technical check: webcam, microphone, browser, internet stability, and room setup. Test the exact login flow if the provider offers a system test.
Do a light review of high-weight topics and key command/API syntax you tend to forget. Stop studying early enough to sleep well. Prepare your ID, confirmation, and any allowed materials in one place.
Confirm the start time in your local time zone, set two alarms, and plan travel or a quiet workspace. Avoid cramming new material overnight.
Eat a normal meal, hydrate, and avoid heavy last-minute cramming. Do a quick 10-minute skim of your summary sheet only.
Log in or arrive early per the provider's guidance. Complete ID verification and room scan calmly; keep your desk clear of anything not explicitly allowed.
Read each question fully, flag uncertain items, and answer the easy ones first. Watch the clock and budget time so you can return to flagged questions.
If a technical issue occurs, stay calm and follow the proctor's or provider's instructions; note the time and nature of the problem in case you need to request accommodation afterward.
Note any topics that felt weak while fresh, and confirm how and when results will be delivered.
Rules to check
Present valid government-issued photo ID matching your registration name; confirm with the provider which forms of ID are accepted.
Follow all proctor instructions. During online proctoring, remain in camera view, keep your face visible, and do not leave the camera's field except as permitted.
Keep your workspace clear. Unless the provider explicitly allows them, no phones, smartwatches, notes, or secondary screens in the testing area.
Do not communicate with anyone other than the proctor during the exam, and do not attempt to capture, copy, or share exam content.
Confirm with the provider whether breaks are allowed, whether the timer pauses during breaks, and any rules about leaving and re-entering the session.
Confirm the scoring model and passing threshold with the provider, and understand whether partial credit applies before you sit the exam.
Report any technical problems to the proctor immediately and follow their instructions; ask the provider in advance how incidents are documented and handled.
Review the provider's academic-integrity and retake policies ahead of time so you understand the consequences of any violation and your options if you do not pass.