ICAB CL Accounting exam-day guide
ICAB CL Accounting · Prepare for the day ahead.
Your checklist
Admission permit / confirmation letter
Print or download the official admission document from your ICAB candidate portal. Confirm with the provider whether a printed copy is required or a digital version is accepted.
Valid photo ID
Bring the original government-issued photo ID (passport, national ID card, or driving licence) that matches the name on your admission permit. Confirm with the provider which ID types are accepted and whether a photocopy is allowed.
Approved calculator
Bring a non-programmable calculator with a cleared memory. Confirm with the provider the exact model restrictions and whether spare batteries or a second calculator are permitted.
Black ballpoint pens (at least two)
Use black ink for handwritten answers. Bring a spare in case one fails. Pencil is typically only for multiple-choice answer sheets; confirm with the provider if you are unsure.
Pencil, eraser, and sharpener
Needed for multiple-choice answer sheets and rough work. Keep them in a clear pouch if the provider requires transparent storage.
Clear pencil case or transparent pouch
Many centres require all stationery to be visible in a clear container. Confirm with the provider whether this is mandatory at your centre.
Printed exam timetable and centre address
Note the reporting time, venue, and room number. Check travel time and plan to arrive at least 30 minutes early; confirm with the provider the exact arrival window.
Water in a clear bottle with the label removed
Stay hydrated, but confirm with the provider whether drinks are allowed at your desk and whether the bottle must be transparent and unlabelled.
Personal medication and required access arrangements
If you need medication, extra time, or a separate room, bring the approval letter. Confirm with the provider well in advance that your arrangements are confirmed.
Review centre rules on prohibited items
Mobile phones, smart watches, notes, and bags are usually banned from the exam room. Confirm with the provider where to store them and what happens if a device is found.
Plan your route and backup transport
Check for disruptions and have a backup plan. Arriving late may mean you are not admitted; confirm with the provider the cut-off time for late arrivals.
Get a full night's sleep and eat a proper meal
Avoid last-minute cramming. A rested mind performs better on computational accounting questions.
Plan the day
Stop learning new topics. Review your summary notes, formula sheets, and a list of common exam traps (e.g., depreciation methods, accruals, and VAT treatment). Practise one full past paper under timed conditions and mark it honestly. Re-check the venue address, reporting time, and what you are allowed to bring. Confirm with the provider any outstanding access arrangements.
Pack your bag with the admission permit, ID, calculator, pens, pencils, and clear pouch. Lay out your clothes. Do a light review of key formulas and definitions only. Set two alarms. Avoid alcohol and heavy meals. Aim for 7–8 hours of sleep. Do not attempt a new mock exam.
Eat a substantial breakfast. Arrive at the centre at least 30 minutes before the reporting time. Use the restroom before entering the room. Keep your phone switched off and stored away. Listen carefully to the invigilator's instructions and check that your question paper and answer booklet are for the correct paper and level.
Read all instructions first. Allocate time according to the marks available; do not spend too long on one question. For computational questions, show your workings clearly, as method marks may be awarded. For multiple-choice sections, answer every question and flag uncertain ones to return to. Leave 5–10 minutes to check that you have filled in your candidate number correctly and that all answer sheets are complete.
Rules to check
Bring the original photo ID that matches your admission permit. If you do not have it, you may be refused entry; confirm with the provider what alternative identification is acceptable.
Arrive at the reporting time stated on your admission permit. Late arrivals may not be admitted once the exam has started; confirm with the provider the exact cut-off.
Place mobile phones, smart watches, and any other electronic devices in the designated storage area before entering the exam room. Do not keep them on your person.
Do not communicate with other candidates once you enter the exam room. Raise your hand if you need an invigilator.
Breaks are generally not permitted during the exam. If you need to leave the room, you may be escorted and will not receive extra time; confirm with the provider the policy for emergency breaks.
Use only approved calculators and stationery. Programmable calculators, notes, and unauthorised materials are prohibited.
Stop writing immediately when the invigilator announces the end of the exam. Failure to do so may result in a penalty.
Scoring and pass marks are set by the provider. Do not rely on rumoured pass rates; confirm the marking scheme and pass criteria with the provider before the exam.