SACE Stage 2 Digital Technologies exam-day guide
SACE Stage 2 Digital Technologies · Prepare for the day ahead.
Your checklist
Photo identification
Bring a current school ID, passport, or other photo ID. Confirm with the provider which forms are accepted and whether a digital copy is sufficient.
Admission or exam slip
Print or download any admission notice provided. If none is issued, confirm with the provider what you need to present on arrival.
Required stationery
Pack several pens, pencils, an eraser, and a ruler. For Digital Technologies, a pencil is useful for sketching diagrams or planning before writing.
Approved calculator
Check with the provider whether a calculator is permitted for this subject and which models are approved. If allowed, bring one you are familiar with.
Clear water bottle
Bring a transparent, label-free water bottle if permitted. Confirm with the provider whether drinks are allowed at your desk.
Wristwatch (non-smart)
A simple analogue or digital watch helps you pace yourself. Smartwatches and wearable devices are usually prohibited; confirm with the provider.
Review key definitions and syntax
Re-read summaries of core concepts such as data types, algorithms, and network protocols. Do not attempt to learn new material at the last minute.
Plan your transport and arrival time
Confirm the exam venue, start time, and required arrival time with the provider. Aim to arrive early to allow for check-in.
Check device and software rules
If the exam involves a computer, confirm with the provider what equipment is supplied and whether you may bring your own. Do not assume any device is allowed.
Prepare for storage of personal items
Phones and bags are usually collected or stored away. Confirm with the provider where these go and whether you can access them during breaks.
Sleep and nutrition plan
Prioritise sleep in the nights before the exam and eat a normal breakfast. Avoid relying on caffeine or energy drinks.
Emergency contact and provider details
Save the school or provider contact number in case of transport delays or illness. Confirm with the provider how to report an issue on the day.
Plan the day
Review your summary notes and past feedback rather than re-reading everything. Practise a few short questions under timed conditions. Check the venue location, start time, and what you are allowed to bring, confirming any uncertain points with the provider. Prepare your stationery and ID in one place. Keep evenings calm and aim for regular sleep.
Do a light review of key terms and formulas. Pack your bag with ID, stationery, and any approved items. Confirm transport arrangements and set two alarms. Avoid cramming new topics. Eat a normal dinner and go to bed at a reasonable hour.
Eat a proper breakfast and drink water. Do a final check of your bag against the checklist. Leave home with extra time to spare. Arrive at the venue early, follow signage, and listen carefully to supervisor instructions during check-in.
Read all instructions and the paper structure before starting. Allocate time according to marks and leave a few minutes to check your work. Answer the questions you find easiest first, then return to harder ones. For programming or design questions, plan briefly before writing. If you are unsure about a rule, raise your hand and ask a supervisor.
Rules to check
Bring approved photo identification and present it when requested. If you do not have acceptable ID, confirm with the provider in advance what alternatives are allowed.
Follow all instructions from exam supervisors. Do not communicate with other candidates once the exam has begun, and do not attempt to view others' work.
Electronic devices, including phones and smartwatches, are generally not permitted in the exam room. Confirm with the provider where to store them and whether any exceptions apply.
If you need to leave the room for a break, raise your hand and wait for a supervisor. Confirm with the provider whether supervised breaks are permitted and how they affect your time.
Do not bring unauthorised notes, books, or equipment into the exam. If you are unsure whether an item is allowed, ask the provider before the exam day.
If you arrive late or feel unwell, notify a supervisor immediately. Confirm with the provider how lateness or illness is handled and whether special consideration may apply.
Scoring and marking procedures are set by the provider. Confirm with the provider how marks are allocated and what materials, if any, are provided during the exam.