CASAS exam-day guide
CASAS · Prepare for the day ahead.
Your checklist
Government-issued photo ID
Bring the original document, not a photocopy. Most testing sites require photo identification before you are seated. Confirm with the provider which forms of ID it accepts and whether a second form is needed.
Testing appointment confirmation
Have the confirmation email, letter, or scheduling reference available on paper or on your phone in case the front desk asks for it. Confirm with the provider whether a printed copy is required.
Know your test location and arrival time
Write down the exact address, building entrance, and the arrival time stated in your appointment notice. Arrive earlier than instructed only if the provider allows it; some sites admit candidates in scheduled waves.
Transportation and backup plan
Plan the route and one alternative in case of delays. Allow extra time for parking, security screening, or check-in lines.
Glasses or hearing aids you normally use
If you rely on corrective lenses or a hearing device for reading or listening tasks, bring them. Tell staff at check-in if you need any accessibility accommodation, and confirm with the provider in advance how accommodations are requested.
Water and a light snack for before or after
Rules on food and drink inside the testing room vary by site. Keep items in a bag and ask staff where they may be stored. Confirm with the provider whether anything may be brought to the desk.
Know what not to bring into the testing room
Phones, smartwatches, notes, and study materials are commonly restricted. Ask where to store them. Confirm with the provider which personal items are prohibited and whether lockers are available.
Review the test format, not new content
In the last days, focus on familiarizing yourself with the kinds of tasks and question directions rather than cramming new material. Ask the provider for any published sample items or format description.
Practice reading and listening in English daily
CASAS assessments measure applied English and math skills used in everyday life and work. Short daily practice with instructions, forms, schedules, and short readings is more useful than last-minute memorization.
Plan for a possible re-test or follow-up
Ask the provider how results are delivered, when they are available, and whether retesting is possible. Policies differ by program, so confirm details with the provider rather than assuming.
Rest and a normal routine the night before
Sleep and arrive calm. The assessment is designed to measure functional skills, so being rested matters more than last-minute review.
Emergency contact and site phone number
Save the testing site's phone number so you can call if you are delayed or cannot attend. Confirm with the provider how to reschedule or report an absence.
Plan the day
Confirm your appointment details, location, and arrival time. Re-read any instructions the provider sent about ID, prohibited items, and accommodations. Do a short practice session with sample items if the provider offers them, and review how to read directions carefully. Avoid starting new study topics.
Lay out your ID, appointment confirmation, glasses or hearing aids, and any permitted items. Charge your phone and arrange transportation. Check the weather and traffic outlook. Go to bed at your usual time.
Eat a normal meal, leave early, and arrive at the stated time. Keep your ID accessible. Follow staff instructions at check-in, store restricted items where directed, and use the restroom before being seated.
Listen to or read all directions before answering. Work at a steady pace and answer every question if the format does not penalize guessing. If a question is unclear, re-read it once and move on rather than stalling. If you need a break or accommodation, raise your hand and ask the proctor.
Rules to check
Bring valid photo identification as specified by the provider. If you do not have an acceptable ID, you may not be admitted; confirm accepted forms with the provider before test day.
Arrive at the scheduled time. Late arrival policies vary by site, so confirm with the provider what happens if you are delayed.
Do not use phones, smartwatches, notes, or other unauthorized materials during the test. Follow staff directions on where to store personal items.
Follow all instructions from the proctor. Ask before leaving your seat, and ask how to request a break if you need one.
Request any accessibility accommodation in advance through the provider. Do not assume it can be arranged on the day of the test.
Do not share, copy, or photograph test content. Test materials are confidential.
Scoring and reporting methods are set by the program administering the assessment. Ask the provider how your results will be used and when they will be available rather than relying on general assumptions.
If you are ill or cannot attend, contact the testing site as soon as possible. Rescheduling and absence policies differ, so confirm them with the provider.