SACE Stage 2 Chemistry exam-day guide
SACE Stage 2 Chemistry · Prepare for the day ahead.
Your checklist
Photo ID
Bring the identification the provider requires and keep it accessible. Confirm accepted ID types and display rules with the provider (needs_review).
Lab coat and safety glasses
Pack a clean lab coat and approved safety glasses. Confirm the exact PPE standard with the provider before exam day (needs_review).
Closed-toe shoes and hair tie
Wear closed-toe shoes and tie back long hair; remove dangling jewellery or loose sleeves. Confirm any additional clothing restrictions with the provider (needs_review).
Scientific calculator
Bring a calculator you know how to use, with working batteries. Confirm which calculator models are permitted with the provider (needs_review).
Pens, pencils, eraser, ruler, and sharpener
Pack at least two pens, two pencils, an eraser, a ruler, and a sharpener. Use a clear pencil case if the provider requires it.
Periodic table or data sheet
Confirm whether the provider supplies a periodic table/data sheet or whether you must bring a printed copy. Do not rely on an unapproved annotated copy (needs_review).
Water bottle
Bring a clear, labelled water bottle only if the provider allows drinks at the bench. Confirm the food and drink policy with the provider (needs_review).
Simple watch
A non-smart watch can help you track time if the room clock is not visible. Confirm whether watches are permitted and whether smart watches must be removed (needs_review).
Venue and transport plan
Check the exam location, start time, and arrival instructions. Plan transport with extra time for traffic, parking, and finding the lab.
Bag packed and phone stored
Pack the night before and leave phones or smart devices at home or store them exactly as directed. Confirm the provider's device-storage rule (needs_review).
Plan the day
Review core practical skills and calculations: titration, gravimetric analysis, calorimetry, colorimetry, rates, and equilibrium calculations as covered in your course. Make a one-page formula and method summary, and practise significant figures and uncertainty questions.
Gather PPE and stationery, check calculator batteries, and confirm with the provider which items are supplied and which you must bring. Do not learn new content; consolidate familiar techniques instead.
Pack your bag, reread the safety rules for common lab techniques, and do a light review of calculations and apparatus setup. Confirm transport and set two alarms; aim for normal sleep rather than late-night cramming.
Eat a normal meal, hydrate, and arrive early with PPE and stationery. Leave phones and smart devices stored as directed, check in, and read any instructions posted at the venue before entering.
Read the whole paper and safety instructions before starting. Identify required apparatus, note the marks or time allocation, and plan the order of tasks so you leave time for repeats and cleanup.
Set up apparatus safely, record raw data immediately in a clear table, and label all samples and solutions. Show working, units, significant figures, and uncertainties; if a result is anomalous, record it and note the issue rather than altering data.
Stop adding new measurements with enough time to clean and return apparatus, dispose of waste as directed, and check that your name and details are on all sheets. Report any spill or breakage to the supervisor immediately.
Rules to check
Follow all safety instructions from the supervisor and report spills, breakages, or injuries immediately; do not clean hazardous spills yourself.
Bring and display the identification required by the provider. Confirm accepted ID and display rules with the provider before exam day.
Do not use phones, smart watches, or other unauthorised electronic devices during the assessment; store them exactly as directed.
Breaks are at the supervisor's discretion. Ask before leaving your bench, and confirm with the provider whether any additional time is allowed for breaks.
Show working, units, significant figures, and uncertainties. Marks may be awarded for method and communication as well as final answers, so confirm the mark allocation with the provider.
Work independently: do not share apparatus, data, or answers with other candidates during the assessment.
Manage your time using the stated start and finish times, and leave enough time for repeat measurements if needed and for cleanup before the end.
Confirm with the provider any rules about food and drink, permitted calculators, supplied data sheets, late arrival, and collection of materials after the exam.