CPA Australia Taxation exam-day guide
CPA Australia Taxation · Prepare for the day ahead.
Your checklist
Photo identification
Bring the original, current, government-issued photo ID that matches the name on your CPA Australia enrolment. Confirm with the provider which ID types are accepted and whether a digital licence is permitted.
Exam confirmation / admission details
Have your exam booking confirmation, candidate number, and any admission letter ready. Check the exact venue or online proctoring link and start time on your confirmation.
Approved calculator
Bring a calculator that meets CPA Australia's permitted models and features (non-programmable, no retained memory). Confirm the current approved list with the provider before exam day.
Printed or annotated legislation and study materials (if open book)
Some CPA Australia exams permit specified printed references. Confirm which materials are allowed for your segment, and ensure any annotations comply with the rules. Do not assume open book applies to every segment.
Pens, pencils, and eraser
Pack spares of what you normally write with. If sitting online, have blank paper and a pen only if the provider permits it.
Water and a light snack
Bring water in a clear bottle and a snack for before or after the exam. Check venue rules on food and drink in the exam room.
Watch (non-smart)
A simple analogue or digital watch helps you pace without relying on the on-screen timer. Smart watches and wearables are almost always prohibited; confirm with the provider.
Layers of clothing
Exam rooms can be cold or warm. Dress in layers so you can adjust without distracting others.
Travel and parking plan
Confirm the route, parking, and arrival buffer. Aim to arrive well before the reporting time; late arrivals may be refused entry. Confirm the provider's cut-off policy.
Online exam setup check (if remote)
Test your computer, camera, microphone, internet, and the proctoring software in advance. Have a backup internet option and a quiet, well-lit room with a clear desk.
Medical or special consideration documentation
If you have an approved adjustment, bring the confirmation. If you become unwell, know the provider's special consideration process. Confirm details with the provider.
needs_review: Segment-specific reference list
The exact list of permitted printed references varies by segment and year. Confirm the current permitted materials for your specific segment with CPA Australia before relying on them.
Plan the day
Confirm your booking, venue or online session details, and start time. Re-read the candidate rules on ID, permitted items, and conduct. Print or download your confirmation.
Do a final content pass using your summary notes and formula sheet. Focus on high-weight topics and question types you keep missing, not on new material.
Complete one timed practice set under exam conditions, then review every wrong answer and note the reason. Stop heavy study by the evening before.
Pack your bag: ID, confirmation, approved calculator, pens, water, and any permitted references. Lay out clothing. Check the weather and travel time.
For online exams, run the full system and proctoring check, clear your desk, and confirm your room meets the rules. Charge devices and prepare a backup connection.
Eat a normal meal, avoid alcohol, and aim for a full night's sleep. Set two alarms. Do not cram late into the night.
Eat a proper meal and hydrate. Re-check your bag against the checklist. Leave with a buffer so you arrive early.
Avoid discussing content with other candidates. Do a short, calm review of your summary sheet only if it settles you.
Read the instructions and note the time allocation. Answer easier questions first, flag uncertain ones, and return to them. Watch the clock and keep a reserve for review.
For calculation questions, show your working on scratch paper if permitted, and check units and signs. For scenario questions, identify what is being asked before choosing an answer.
If you need a break, follow the provider's rules; the clock may not stop. Stay calm if a question is unfamiliar; eliminate clearly wrong options and move on.
Rules to check
Bring original, current photo ID that matches your enrolment name. Expired or photocopied ID is normally refused. Confirm accepted ID types and any digital ID policy with the provider.
Arrive before the reporting time. Late arrivals may be refused entry or given reduced time. Confirm the provider's cut-off and re-scheduling policy.
Only bring permitted items into the exam room. Phones, smart watches, notes, and bags must be stored as directed. Unauthorised materials can lead to misconduct findings.
Follow all instructions from supervisors and proctors. Do not communicate with other candidates during the exam. For online exams, keep your face and workspace visible and do not leave the camera view.
Breaks are generally not permitted during the exam, and the clock usually does not stop. Confirm the provider's policy on emergencies and toilet breaks before exam day.
Scoring is typically based on the number of correct answers with no penalty for guessing unless stated otherwise. Confirm the scoring and pass mark rules for your segment with the provider.
Do not share, record, or reproduce exam questions. All exam content is confidential. Breaches can result in cancellation of results and further sanctions.
If you are unwell or face an emergency, notify the supervisor immediately and follow the provider's special consideration process. Do not attempt to sit the exam if you are unfit; confirm the rules with the provider.