ICAB PL Corporate Laws and Practices exam-day guide
ICAB PL Corporate Laws and Practices · Prepare for the day ahead.
Your checklist
Admission permit / exam confirmation
Bring the admission document or confirmation email issued by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Bangladesh (ICAB) or the exam provider. Confirm with the provider whether a printed copy is mandatory or a digital copy is accepted.
Valid photo ID
Carry the original government-issued photo ID (e.g., national ID card or passport) that matches your registration details. Confirm with the provider which ID types are accepted and whether a photocopy is permitted.
Exam venue and reporting time details
Note the exact venue address, hall/room number, and reporting time from your admit card. Plan to arrive well before the reporting time to allow for security checks and seating.
Writing instruments
Bring black or blue ink pens (and spares), a pencil, eraser, and sharpener if needed. Confirm with the provider whether pencil is allowed for any section and whether correction fluid/tape is prohibited.
Non-programmable calculator
A basic non-programmable calculator is typically permitted for numerical questions. Confirm with the provider the exact model restrictions and whether spare batteries are allowed.
Transparent water bottle
Carry a clear, label-free water bottle if permitted. Confirm with the provider whether water bottles are allowed in the exam hall.
Travel and timing plan
Pre-plan your route, transport mode, and backup options. Check local traffic or transport disruptions on the day and aim to reach the venue at least 30–45 minutes early, unless the provider specifies otherwise.
Study notes for last-minute revision
Bring concise, self-made summary sheets on key Companies Act topics (e.g., incorporation, share capital, directors' duties, meetings, winding up) for review before entering the hall. Leave notes outside the hall as they are not permitted at the desk.
Watch (non-smart)
A simple analog or digital watch helps manage time if the hall clock is not visible. Confirm with the provider whether watches are allowed; smartwatches are almost certainly prohibited.
Light snack and medication
If you have a medical condition or need medication, carry it in a clear container and inform the invigilator. Confirm with the provider about bringing snacks for long exams.
Review the exam instructions
Re-read the instructions on the admit card or provider website regarding permitted items, prohibited items, and misconduct rules. Confirm with the provider if anything is unclear.
Backup of admit card and ID
Keep a photocopy or digital scan of your admit card and ID in case of loss. Confirm with the provider whether copies are acceptable for entry (usually originals are required).
Plan the day
Focus on high-yield revision: summarize key sections of the Companies Act 1994 (e.g., types of companies, memorandum and articles, prospectus, share allotment, directors' powers and duties, meetings, dividends, winding up) and related rules. Practice past-paper style questions under timed conditions. Prepare your exam-day checklist and gather documents. Confirm venue, reporting time, and permitted items with the provider. Avoid learning entirely new topics; consolidate what you know.
Do a light review of summary notes and mnemonics. Pack your bag with admit card, ID, pens, calculator, water bottle, and any permitted items. Check transport arrangements and weather. Set multiple alarms. Get a full night's sleep; avoid staying up late. Confirm with the provider any last-minute changes (e.g., venue or timing) via official channels.
Eat a balanced breakfast and stay hydrated. Re-check your bag against the checklist. Leave early to arrive at the venue at least 30–45 minutes before reporting time (confirm exact reporting time with the provider). Avoid discussing difficult topics with other candidates to keep anxiety low. Keep notes outside the hall.
Read all instructions carefully. Allocate time according to marks: for a 100-mark, 3-hour paper, roughly 1.8 minutes per mark. Start with questions you know best, but keep an eye on the clock. For scenario-based questions, identify the relevant Companies Act provision, apply it to the facts, and conclude clearly. Show workings for numerical parts. Leave 10–15 minutes at the end to review answers, check question numbers, and ensure no question is left blank. If you need a break, raise your hand and follow invigilator instructions.
Rules to check
Bring original photo ID and admission permit; entry may be refused without them. Confirm with the provider which ID types are accepted and whether digital copies are allowed.
Arrive at the venue by the reporting time. Late entry may be restricted; confirm with the provider the exact cut-off time and whether extra time is granted for late arrival.
Electronic devices, including mobile phones, smartwatches, and programmable calculators, are generally prohibited in the exam hall. Switch off and store them as directed. Confirm with the provider the permitted calculator models.
Do not communicate with other candidates during the exam. Any form of cheating, impersonation, or possession of unauthorized materials may lead to disqualification. Follow all invigilator instructions.
Raise your hand to ask an invigilator a question; do not leave your seat without permission. If you need to use the restroom, follow the provider's policy on breaks and escorted movement.
Write your candidate number and other required details on the answer booklet. Do not write your name or any identifying information unless instructed, to preserve anonymity in marking.
Scoring is typically based on marks allocated per question; show all workings for numerical questions as partial credit may be awarded. Confirm with the provider the marking scheme and pass mark.
At the end of the exam, stop writing immediately when instructed and hand over all exam materials. Remain seated until dismissed.