CREST CPSA exam-day guide
CREST CPSA · Prepare for the day ahead.
Your checklist
Government-issued photo ID
Bring the original ID in the name used on your booking. For remote proctoring, check the ID type the proctor accepts and that the name matches your registration exactly; confirm with the provider if you are unsure which documents qualify.
Exam booking confirmation and appointment details
Have your confirmation email, candidate/booking number, and the start time with time zone to hand. Confirm the exam window and any joining instructions with the provider, as delivery arrangements vary.
Confirm test format and delivery method
Check whether your sitting is at a test centre or online-proctored, and whether the format is multiple-choice only or includes other item types. Confirm with the provider rather than relying on secondhand accounts.
Review the official syllabus and weightings
Use the current CREST CPSA exam blueprint to prioritise revision. Confirm the current version and any recent changes with CREST, since syllabi are updated periodically.
Confirm allowed reference materials and tools
Check whether any notes, calculators, or reference sheets are permitted. Assume nothing is allowed unless the provider states it; confirm with the provider.
Technical check for remote sitting
If online-proctored, test your webcam, microphone, browser, and internet connection, and install any required proctoring software in advance. Confirm system requirements with the provider.
Quiet, private room and workspace
For remote exams, clear your desk and ensure a closed, well-lit room with no interruptions. Confirm the room and desk rules (e.g., permitted items on desk) with the provider.
Plan travel and arrival time
For a test centre, reconfirm the address and journey, and arrive with buffer time. Ask the provider how early to arrive and what happens if you are late.
Rest, hydration, and a light meal
Sleep well the night before and eat sensibly beforehand. Practical, not a policy item.
Read the candidate handbook / exam regulations
Review the current candidate rules on conduct, breaks, and scoring. Confirm the latest version with the provider.
Plan the day
Finish syllabus coverage and switch to timed practice under exam-like conditions. List weak topics and do targeted revision only.
Re-read the official exam regulations and confirm logistics: date, time zone, venue or proctoring link, and ID requirements. Confirm anything unclear with the provider.
If remote, complete any software install and a full mock session to catch technical issues early.
Light review of summary notes and key concepts only; no new topics. Prepare ID, confirmation, and any permitted items.
Reconfirm the appointment time and joining instructions. Check travel or set up your exam room and equipment. Aim for a full night's sleep.
Eat, hydrate, and arrive or log in early as instructed. Do a final technical check if remote, and keep the desk clear of anything not permitted.
Read each question fully, watch for qualifiers (e.g., 'most likely', 'BEST'), and answer every question if there is no penalty for guessing - confirm the scoring rule with the provider.
Pace yourself against the number of questions and time allowed; flag uncertain items and return to them. Take breaks only if the rules permit - confirm with the provider.
If technical problems occur in a remote sitting, pause and contact the proctor or provider per their instructions rather than troubleshooting alone.
Rules to check
Bring valid photo ID matching your registration; without acceptable ID you may be refused entry or your result voided. Confirm accepted ID with the provider.
Follow all proctor and invigilator instructions. Prohibited behaviour (e.g., unauthorised materials, communication, or leaving the view) can lead to termination and invalidation.
For remote sittings, keep to the stated camera, room, and desk rules, and do not have unauthorised people or devices present. Confirm the exact rules with the provider.
Breaks are governed by provider policy and may not be allowed or may stop the clock; ask before your exam what applies to your sitting.
Results and pass marks are set by CREST; do not assume a scoring scheme. Confirm the current pass mark and result timeline with the provider.
Do not discuss, share, or reproduce exam content afterwards; doing so may breach the candidate agreement.
If you need to reschedule or have accessibility requirements, arrange this in advance per provider policy - confirm deadlines and options with CREST or your test provider.
Report any technical or procedural issue to the proctor immediately and follow up in writing as instructed; do not attempt to resolve it by improvising.