Australian Custodial/Correctional Aptitude exam-day guide
Australian Custodial/Correctional Aptitude · Prepare for the day ahead.
Your checklist
Photo identification
Bring the exact ID form named in your invitation or admission letter (commonly a current driver licence or passport). If the acceptable ID types are not clearly stated, confirm with the provider before test day rather than assuming.
Admission or booking confirmation
Print or save the confirmation email or letter showing your name, test time, and venue. It helps resolve any check-in confusion.
Venue and arrival instructions
Re-read the provider's instructions on arrival time, entry point, and parking or public transport. Arrive earlier than the stated time to allow for security screening.
Water and a light snack
Bring water and something small to eat during any scheduled break. Confirm with the provider whether food and drink are permitted in the testing room.
Confirmation of permitted items
Ask the provider what you may bring into the room (for example, a clear water bottle, tissues, or a calculator). Do not assume phones, smart watches, or notes are allowed.
Rest and sleep plan
Protect your sleep in the days before the test. Fatigue affects attention and reading speed more than last-minute study does.
Practice under timed conditions
Complete at least one full timed practice set so you know how the question format and pacing feel before the real thing.
Plan your route and backup
Know the route, travel time, and a backup option in case of transport delays. Aim to be at the venue with time to spare.
Read the candidate information pack
Review any candidate handbook or information sheet the provider supplies for rules on conduct, breaks, and scoring.
Emergency contact and provider phone number
Save the provider's contact number so you can call promptly if something goes wrong on the day.
Plan the day
Confirm your booking details, venue, and arrival time. Re-read the provider's candidate information for rules on ID, permitted items, and breaks.
Do one or two timed practice sets, then review your errors. Stop heavy study after this point and focus on rest.
Lay out your ID, confirmation, water bottle, and clothes. Check transport timetables and plan your route.
Avoid cramming. Get a full night's sleep, eat normally, and avoid alcohol. Set two alarms.
Eat a normal breakfast, drink water, and leave early. Re-check you have your ID and confirmation before leaving.
Follow staff instructions for check-in and security screening. Use the toilet before the test starts if permitted.
Read each question carefully, watch the time, and answer easier questions first. If unsure, mark your best answer and move on. Use only breaks the provider allows.
Note anything you found difficult while it is fresh, and ask the provider about result timelines and next steps.
Rules to check
Bring the exact ID the provider requires; if you are unsure which forms are accepted, confirm with the provider before test day.
Arrive at or before the stated arrival time. Late arrival may mean you are refused entry; confirm the provider's late-arrival policy in advance.
Follow all instructions from invigilators and security staff, including screening and seating directions.
Do not bring phones, smart watches, or notes into the testing room unless the provider explicitly permits them.
Take breaks only when and how the provider allows. Confirm the break policy before the test.
Answer every question if there is no penalty for guessing; confirm the scoring rules with the provider.
Do not discuss or share test content with other candidates during or after the session.
If you feel unwell or have an issue on the day, tell staff immediately and follow their direction.