SACE Stage 2 Physics exam-day guide
SACE Stage 2 Physics · Prepare for the day ahead.
Your checklist
Photo identification
Bring a current photo ID (e.g., school ID, driver's licence, passport). Confirm with the provider which forms of ID are accepted and whether it must be original.
Admission slip or exam timetable
Print or download your personalised exam timetable or admission slip if your school requires it. Confirm with the provider whether a printed copy is mandatory.
Approved calculator
Use a calculator from the approved list for SACE Stage 2 Physics. Confirm with the provider which models are permitted and whether programmable or graphing calculators are allowed.
Spare batteries
Bring spare batteries or a backup approved calculator if permitted. Check with the provider whether a second calculator may be brought into the room.
Pens, pencils, eraser, sharpener
Bring at least two black or blue pens, two pencils, an eraser, and a sharpener. Use pencil for diagrams and graphs if instructed.
Ruler and protractor
A clear ruler and protractor are useful for scale diagrams and vector problems. Confirm with the provider whether any additional drawing instruments are allowed.
Clear water bottle
Bring a clear, label-free water bottle if permitted. Confirm with the provider whether drinks are allowed at your desk.
Watch (non-smart)
A simple analogue or digital watch can help you pace yourself if the room clock is not visible. Smart watches are not permitted. Confirm with the provider whether any watch is allowed.
Review formula sheet and constants
Check which formulae and constants are provided with the exam and which you must recall. Confirm with the provider what is supplied on the day.
Know your seating and venue
Confirm your exam room, seat number, and arrival time with your school or the provider at least 24 hours before the exam.
Plan transport and arrive early
Arrive at least 20–30 minutes before the scheduled start. Confirm with the provider the exact arrival time and late-arrival policy.
Leave prohibited items at home
Do not bring phones, smart watches, notes, or unauthorised electronic devices into the exam room. Confirm with the provider where bags and devices must be stored.
Plan the day
Review your summary notes and formula sheet. Focus on weak topics identified from practice papers. Do one timed practice section under exam conditions and mark it carefully, noting recurring errors.
Revisit worked examples for core skills: vector resolution, circuit analysis, projectile and circular motion, and data analysis. Check that your calculator is working and has fresh batteries.
Do a light review of key formulae and constants. Prepare your equipment checklist and pack your bag. Confirm the venue, start time, and transport plan. Aim for a full night's sleep; avoid learning new material.
Eat a normal breakfast and drink water. Do a 15–20 minute light review of formulae only. Arrive early, leave all prohibited items outside the exam room, and settle at your desk.
Read the instructions and check the number of questions and marks. Scan the whole paper to identify familiar and challenging sections. Plan your time roughly in proportion to marks.
Start with questions you are confident about to build momentum. Show all working, including formulae, substitutions, and units. Draw clear diagrams for vector and motion problems. If stuck, move on and return later.
Check that every question has been attempted. Verify units, significant figures, and that answers are in the requested form. Transfer any answers to the correct place and check your name and candidate details.
Rules to check
Bring only approved equipment into the exam room. Phones, smart watches, and unauthorised notes must be left outside. Confirm with the provider the exact list of prohibited items and storage arrangements.
Present your photo ID and admission slip if required when asked by the supervisor. Confirm with the provider which identification documents are accepted.
Do not communicate with other candidates once the exam has started. Raise your hand if you need to speak to a supervisor.
If you need to leave the room for a break, a supervisor will accompany you. Confirm with the provider the break policy and whether extra time is granted.
Write in black or blue pen unless instructed otherwise. Use pencil for diagrams and graphs where required. Confirm with the provider any specific stationery rules.
Calculators must be from the approved list and cleared of any stored notes or programs if required. Confirm with the provider whether calculators will be checked.
Marks are awarded for correct working and appropriate units, not only final answers. Show all steps clearly.
Follow all instructions from exam supervisors. Any breach of rules may be reported and could affect your result. Confirm with the provider the consequences of misconduct.