Certificat Catala B1 exam-day guide
Certificat Catala B1 · Prepare for the day ahead.
Your checklist
Original identity document (DNI, passport, or NIE)
Bring the same document used at registration; it must be valid and include a photo. Confirm with the provider whether a photocopy or digital format is accepted.
Printed registration confirmation or exam admission letter
Some centres require the email or letter showing your name, exam level, and time. Confirm with the provider whether a digital copy is sufficient.
Black or blue ballpoint pens (two or three)
Answers are usually written in ink. Bring spares and check that they write smoothly. Confirm with the provider if pencil is allowed for any section.
Pencil and eraser
Useful for notes or multiple-choice answer sheets if permitted. Confirm with the provider whether pencil is allowed for the answer sheet.
Water bottle with the label removed
Stay hydrated, especially before the oral test. Confirm with the provider whether water is allowed in the exam room.
Analog watch (no smart features)
Rooms may not have a visible clock. A simple watch helps you pace the reading and writing sections. Confirm with the provider whether watches are permitted.
Location and transport plan
Check the exact address and room number in advance. Plan to arrive at least 30–45 minutes early to allow for check-in and unforeseen delays.
Light snack for between sections
The exam can be long; a quick snack during breaks helps maintain concentration. Confirm with the provider where food and drink may be consumed.
Review the exam structure and timing
Know the number of tasks, text types, and time limits for each section. Confirm the exact format with the provider or official exam guide.
Practice a timed mock test in the final week
Simulate exam conditions, especially for writing and oral, to manage time and reduce anxiety.
Check prohibited items policy
Mobile phones, smartwatches, and notes are usually banned from the exam room. Confirm with the provider where to leave them.
Oral exam preparation notes
If the oral test is on the same day, bring a short list of useful phrases and topics to review while waiting. Confirm with the provider whether notes can be used in the waiting area.
Plan the day
Confirm the exam time, address, and room with the provider. Print your registration confirmation and ID. Do a full timed mock test under exam conditions. Review the format of each section (reading, listening, writing, oral) and the scoring criteria. Prepare your clothes and bag so the morning is stress-free.
Do a light review of key grammar and vocabulary, but avoid cramming new material. Prepare your ID, confirmation, pens, pencil, eraser, water, watch, and snack. Check transport routes and set two alarms. Go to bed early and avoid screens before sleep.
Eat a normal breakfast and stay hydrated. Arrive at the centre at least 30–45 minutes early. Keep your phone off and stored as instructed. Use the waiting time to read a short text in Catalan to activate the language, not to cram. Breathe and focus on the first task.
Read all instructions carefully and note the time limits. In listening, read questions before each audio plays. In reading, skim the text first, then answer. In writing, plan for 2–3 minutes, write, and reserve time to check. In the oral, speak clearly, use the preparation time to note key ideas, and ask for clarification if needed. Keep an eye on the clock and leave no blank answers in multiple-choice sections.
Rules to check
Bring the original ID document used at registration; without it, you may be denied entry. Confirm with the provider which documents are accepted.
Arrive at least 30 minutes before the start time; late arrivals may not be admitted once the exam has begun. Confirm with the provider the exact late-entry policy.
Mobile phones, smartwatches, and any electronic devices must be switched off and placed where instructed. Using them during the exam is considered misconduct.
Do not communicate with other candidates during the test. Raise your hand if you need to speak to an invigilator.
Breaks between sections are usually not allowed except as directed by the invigilator; confirm with the provider whether there are scheduled breaks.
The oral test may be scheduled on the same day or a different day; confirm your time slot with the provider and arrive early.
Follow the invigilator's instructions at all times. Failure to comply may result in disqualification.
Results and certificates are issued according to the provider's timeline; confirm with the provider how and when results will be published.