SACE Stage 2 Aboriginal Studies exam-day guide
SACE Stage 2 Aboriginal Studies · Prepare for the day ahead.
Your checklist
Photo identification
Bring a current passport, driver's licence, or other photo ID accepted by your school or the SACE Board. Confirm the exact ID requirements with your school's exam coordinator or the provider before exam day.
Exam admission slip or timetable confirmation
Print or save any admission notice your school issues. If you are unsure whether one is required, confirm with the provider.
Black or blue pens (at least two) and a pencil
Write in dark ink so scans and marking are clear. A pencil is useful for planning; check whether pencil is permitted for any specific response type with your supervisor.
Eraser and sharpener
Bring a clean eraser and a small sharpener if you use pencils. Keep them in a clear container if your school requires it.
Clear water bottle with labels removed
Stay hydrated. Many venues require a transparent bottle with no labels; confirm the venue's bottle policy with the provider.
Approved calculator (if permitted)
Aboriginal Studies typically does not require a calculator, but confirm the permitted materials list for your exact subject outline with your teacher or the provider.
Watch (non-smart, silent)
A simple analogue or digital watch helps you pace without relying on wall clocks. Smart watches and phones are usually not allowed at desks; confirm with the provider.
Light layers and comfortable clothing
Exam rooms can be hot or cold. Dress in layers that comply with your school's dress code and avoid clothing with distracting slogans.
Small snack for before or after the exam
Eat something light before you enter. Confirm whether food is allowed in the exam room; usually it is not, so eat beforehand.
Review key terms and case studies
Bring a one-page summary of core concepts, key legislation, and community examples you have studied. Review it before entry, then store it away as directed.
Know your seat number and room location
Check your school's seating plan and room allocation the day before. Arrive early to avoid stress. Confirm details with the provider if unclear.
Plan your transport and backup
Organise your route and a backup plan (lift, bus, parent). Aim to arrive at least 30 minutes before the start time. Confirm reporting time with the provider.
Plan the day
Build a focused revision plan: list the topics you are least confident about and allocate short blocks to each. Re-read your summaries of key concepts, legislation, and community case studies. Practise writing one or two short responses under timed conditions to check your pacing. Confirm exam time, room, and permitted materials with your teacher or the provider.
Check your equipment: pens, pencils, eraser, sharpener, watch, water bottle, and ID. Replace anything missing. Confirm whether a calculator or any other item is permitted for your subject by asking the provider.
Do a light review only: skim your one-page summary and key terms. Avoid cramming new material. Prepare your bag with everything on the checklist. Lay out clothes. Set two alarms. Eat a balanced meal and aim for a full night's sleep.
Confirm your transport plan and backup. Check the weather and allow extra time. If you feel anxious, write down three things you know well to build confidence. Remind yourself that you have prepared.
Eat a proper breakfast and drink water. Do a final 15-minute review of your summary only. Arrive at the venue at least 30 minutes early. Leave your phone and smart devices switched off and stored as directed; do not bring them to your desk. Use the toilet before entering the room.
Read all instructions and the whole paper before writing. Plan your time: allocate minutes per section and stick to them. Start with questions you know best to build momentum, but answer every required question. For longer responses, use a brief plan with a clear argument, evidence, and examples. Watch the clock and leave time to check your work.
If you get stuck, move on and return later. If you need a break or feel unwell, raise your hand and speak to the supervisor; do not leave the room without permission. Write legibly and cross out mistakes neatly. Before the end, check that your name and candidate details are correct and that you have attempted all sections.
Rules to check
Bring and display the photo identification required by your school or the SACE Board. If you are unsure what ID is accepted, confirm with the provider before exam day.
Follow all supervisor instructions. Do not talk, pass materials, or communicate with other candidates once the exam has started. Raise your hand if you need assistance.
Electronic devices, including phones and smart watches, must be switched off and stored as directed. Do not keep them at your desk. Confirm the venue's device policy with the provider.
Only bring materials explicitly permitted for your subject. If you are unsure whether an item such as a calculator or a specific type of dictionary is allowed, confirm with the provider.
Breaks: you may usually leave the room for supervised toilet breaks, but this is at the supervisor's discretion and may be recorded. Confirm the break policy with the provider.
Scoring: marks are awarded for what is written in your response. Plan longer answers with a clear structure and relevant evidence. Check the mark allocation to judge how much detail is needed.
Academic integrity: all work must be your own. Do not bring unauthorised notes or attempt to access outside information during the exam.
If you arrive late, enter quietly and follow supervisor directions. If you miss the exam entirely, contact your school immediately; the provider's rules on lateness and misadventure apply.