Concours Gendarmerie exam-day guide
Concours Gendarmerie · Prepare for the day ahead.
Your checklist
Convocation (convocation individuelle)
Print or download the convocation sent after registration. It states the date, time, and exact address of the test center. Without it, access may be refused. Confirm the exact requirements with the convocation and the organizing provider.
Valid identity document
Bring the original, valid photo ID (national identity card or passport) matching the name on your registration. Expired documents are generally refused. Check with the provider which documents are accepted.
Black ballpoint pens (2–3)
Most written tests use machine-readable answer sheets. Use black ink as usually required. Bring spares; do not rely on the center providing pens.
Watch (non-connected)
A simple analog or digital watch without communication features helps you pace yourself if the room clock is not visible. Smartwatches are generally prohibited; confirm with the provider.
Water bottle and small snack
Tests can last several hours with limited breaks. Bring a transparent bottle and a quick snack if allowed. Check the convocation for restrictions.
Travel plan and backup route
Rehearse the route to the center, check transport schedules, and plan to arrive at least 30–45 minutes early. Identify a backup route in case of delays.
Rest and sleep the night before
Avoid last-minute cramming. A regular sleep schedule improves concentration and reaction time on test day.
Review the test format and instructions
Know the number of questions, time limit, and scoring rules for each part (e.g., negative marking if any). Confirm the format with official provider documents.
No prohibited electronic devices
Leave smartphones, smartwatches, earphones, and other connected devices at home or switched off and stored as instructed. Unauthorized devices can lead to exclusion.
Medical or special-needs arrangements
If you require accommodations, confirm in advance that they have been approved and what supporting documents to bring. Contact the provider well before the test.
Plan the day
Confirm the exact test address, start time, and reporting time from your convocation. Plan your transport and, if needed, accommodation. Gather your ID, convocation, and pens in one place. Do one full timed practice run under exam conditions, then review only your summary notes. Stop intensive study at least 24 hours before the test.
Check transport schedules and weather. Prepare clothes and a bag with your ID, convocation, pens, watch, water, and snack. Avoid alcohol and heavy meals. Go to bed at a normal hour. Do not attempt new topics.
Eat a normal breakfast and stay hydrated. Leave with enough margin to arrive 30–45 minutes early. Re-read the convocation for reporting time and access rules. Keep your phone off and stored. Use the waiting time for light review only, not new material.
Read all instructions before starting. Note the total time and number of questions, and set a pace (e.g., time per question). Answer easy questions first if the format allows, and mark uncertain ones to return to. Transfer answers to the answer sheet as you go if required, and check that question numbers align. Watch the clock and keep 5–10 minutes for final checks. If you finish early, verify that every question is answered and no stray marks remain.
Rules to check
Bring the original valid photo ID and your convocation. Candidates without the required documents may be refused entry; confirm the accepted documents with the provider.
Arrive at the reporting time stated on the convocation. Late candidates may not be admitted once the test has started; check the provider's late-arrival policy.
Electronic devices (phones, smartwatches, earphones, connected watches) must be switched off and stored as instructed. Unauthorized devices on your person during the test can lead to exclusion.
Follow the invigilators' instructions at all times. Do not communicate with other candidates during the test, and do not look at others' papers.
Breaks are usually limited and may be permitted only with authorization. Raise your hand and wait for an invigilator if you need to leave the room; confirm the break policy with the provider.
Scoring rules, including whether wrong answers are penalized, vary by test. Read the instructions on the answer sheet and confirm the scoring method with the provider before the test.
Use only the materials allowed (typically black ballpoint pens). Do not bring notes, books, or unauthorised aids into the test room.
If you believe there is an error in the test or a disturbance, report it to an invigilator immediately rather than after the test. Follow the provider's appeals procedure for any later claim.