Burkina Faso CAPES exam-day guide
Burkina Faso CAPES · Prepare for the day ahead.
Your checklist
Convocation / convocation notice
Bring the printed convocation (or the official notice showing your centre, room, and schedule). If you have not received one, contact the organizing authority (Ministère de l'Éducation nationale / direction des examens) well before exam day - confirm the exact issuing office with the provider.
National identity document
Bring a valid national ID card or passport matching the name on your registration. Confirm with the provider which documents are accepted and whether a photocopy is sufficient.
Black or blue ballpoint pens (several)
Bring at least two reliable pens plus a spare; write only in the ink colour the instructions specify. Pencil is normally reserved for diagrams or rough work if permitted.
Pencils, eraser, sharpener
Useful for diagrams, sketches, or rough work. Confirm whether rough work must be handed in or crossed out.
Geometric instruments
Ruler, set square, protractor, and compass are standard for mathematics and physics practicals. Check the subject-specific instructions for any additional instruments.
Non-programmable calculator
Bring a simple scientific calculator. Programmable or graphing calculators are commonly restricted; confirm the exact rule for your subject with the provider.
Wristwatch (non-connected)
Exam rooms may lack a visible clock. A simple analogue or digital watch helps you pace yourself; smart watches are usually forbidden.
Clear water bottle and small snack
Stay hydrated and keep energy up, especially for long sessions. Keep packaging plain and confirm that drinks are allowed at your desk.
No connected devices
Leave phones, smart watches, earbuds, and any connected device switched off and stored as instructed. Carrying them into the room can be treated as cheating.
Know your centre and route
Visit or map the centre in advance, note travel time, and plan to arrive well before the stated reporting time to allow for ID checks.
Rest and light revision the day before
Review formulas, methods, and practical procedures briefly; prioritise sleep over last-minute cramming.
Read the subject instructions carefully on the day
Check the number of exercises, the time allowed, the marking scheme, and any compulsory sections before you start writing.
Plan the day
Confirm your centre, room, date, and reporting time from the convocation. Re-read the subject-specific instructions and the list of authorised materials. Gather your ID, pens, instruments, and calculator in one bag. Do a focused review of key formulas, experimental methods, and typical practical tasks; stop heavy new learning.
Do one timed practice under realistic conditions: read the whole paper first, allocate time per section, and practise writing clear, structured answers. Review your errors and note the method or formula behind each.
Pack the bag completely and place it by the door. Prepare clothes and transport. Eat a normal meal, avoid late-night study, and set two alarms. Skim summary sheets only; do not attempt new topics.
Eat a proper breakfast, arrive at the centre early with your ID and convocation, and locate your room. Switch off and store all devices. Listen carefully to the invigilator's instructions and check that your paper is complete before the start.
Read all instructions and questions before writing. Note the marks per question and plan your time, leaving a few minutes at the end to check. Start with the questions you can answer confidently to build momentum.
Work steadily, show your reasoning and units, and label diagrams clearly. If a question stalls you, move on and return later. Watch the clock at planned checkpoints rather than constantly.
Check that every required question is attempted, that your name and candidate details are correct, and that diagrams and answers are legible. Tidy rough work as instructed, then stop writing immediately when told.
Rules to check
Bring and display the required identity document and convocation; candidates without proper identification may be refused entry - confirm the accepted documents with the provider.
Arrive before the stated reporting time. Late admission is at the discretion of the centre; confirm the late-entry policy with the provider.
Do not bring phones, smart watches, earbuds, or any connected device into the exam room; store them as instructed or leave them at home.
Use only authorised materials. Programmable calculators, notes, or textbooks are generally prohibited unless the subject instructions explicitly allow them.
Follow all invigilator instructions, including seating, silence, and the start and stop signals. Do not communicate with other candidates during the test.
Any attempt to cheat, exchange materials, or use unauthorised aids can lead to disqualification; the exact sanctions are set by the examining authority.
Breaks and access to water or toilets are usually limited and controlled; raise your hand and wait for permission rather than leaving your seat - confirm the centre's policy with the provider.
Scoring is based on the official marking scheme for the subject; write legibly, show working, and respect the stated time limit. Confirm the weighting and pass criteria with the provider.