Madrid PAU Spanish Language and Literature II exam-day guide
Madrid PAU Spanish Language and Literature II · Prepare for the day ahead.
Your checklist
Official photo ID (DNI, passport, or residence card)
Bring the original document, not a photocopy. It must be valid and show your photo and signature. Confirm with the provider which documents are accepted if you do not have a Spanish DNI.
Exam admission slip or registration confirmation
Print or download the document showing your assigned seat, room, and exam schedule. Some centers allow digital copies, but bring a printed copy as backup. Confirm with the provider whether a printed copy is mandatory.
Blue or black ballpoint pens (at least two)
Write clearly. Pencil is not acceptable for answer sheets. Bring a spare in case one runs out or leaks.
Pencil and eraser for multiple-choice sections
If your exam includes a multiple-choice component, you may need a pencil to fill in bubbles. Confirm with the provider whether pencil is allowed for the specific sections.
Wristwatch (non-smart)
Mobile phones are usually not allowed in the exam room. A simple analog or digital watch helps you manage time. Smartwatches are prohibited.
Clear water bottle without label
Stay hydrated. Remove any label to avoid suspicion of notes. Confirm with the provider whether drinks are allowed at your center.
Small transparent pencil case or bag
Keep pens, pencils, eraser, and ID together. Transparent cases are often required to prevent hidden materials.
Review the exam structure and timing in advance
Know the sections (text commentary, literary analysis, language questions) and the total duration. Plan how many minutes to allocate to each part. Confirm with the provider the exact format for your year.
Know the location and arrival time
Check the venue address, room number, and required arrival time (usually 30 minutes before the start). Visit the site beforehand if possible. Confirm with the provider the exact arrival time.
Leave prohibited items at home
Do not bring mobile phones, smartwatches, notes, books, or any electronic device. If you must bring a phone, confirm with the provider where to leave it; some centers provide secure storage, but this is not guaranteed.
Prepare a light snack for after the exam
The exam is long and mentally demanding. Have water and a snack waiting outside the room for after the test. Confirm with the provider whether food is allowed in the waiting area.
Check the official instructions for your specific exam session
Rules can vary by year and center. Read the official call (convocatoria) carefully. Confirm with the provider any details about calculators, dictionaries, or other materials allowed.
Plan the day
Review the exam format and your summary notes. Practice one full timed section, focusing on text commentary and literary analysis. Do not try to learn new material; consolidate what you know. Prepare your ID, admission slip, and pens. Check the venue location and plan your route.
Review the literary works and authors on the syllabus. Make a one-page outline of key themes, characters, and stylistic features for each work. Practice writing a short commentary on an unseen text. Ensure you have at least two pens, a pencil, an eraser, and a watch. Confirm the exam start time and arrival time with the provider if unsure.
Do a light review of your outlines and notes. Do not cram new content. Prepare your bag with ID, admission slip, pens, pencil, eraser, watch, and water bottle. Set an alarm and plan to arrive early. Get a good night's sleep. Avoid screens before bed.
Eat a balanced breakfast. Arrive at the venue at least 30 minutes before the start time. Have your ID and admission slip ready for inspection. Leave all electronic devices at home or in a secure place as instructed. Use the restroom before entering the exam room. Stay calm and focus on your plan.
Read all instructions carefully. Check that the exam paper has all pages and sections. Note the total time and plan how long to spend on each part. Write your name and ID number exactly as instructed. If you have questions, raise your hand and wait for the invigilator.
Follow your time plan. For text commentary, spend about 10 minutes reading and annotating, then write. For literature questions, organise your answer with a brief outline before writing. Keep an eye on the clock. Leave 5–10 minutes at the end to review your answers and check for spelling and grammar errors.
Stop writing new content. Check that you have answered all required questions and that your handwriting is legible. Make sure your name and ID are on every sheet. If you finish early, review your answers quietly. Do not disturb others.
Rules to check
Bring your official photo ID and admission slip. You will not be admitted without them. If you do not have a Spanish DNI, confirm with the provider which alternative documents are accepted.
Mobile phones, smartwatches, and any electronic devices must be switched off and left outside the exam room. If you are caught with a device, you may be disqualified. Confirm with the provider where to leave your belongings.
Do not bring notes, books, dictionaries, or any unauthorised materials. Only pens, pencils, erasers, and a clear water bottle are allowed on the desk. Confirm with the provider whether a dictionary is permitted for any section.
Arrive at least 30 minutes before the start. Late arrivals may not be admitted once the exam has begun. Confirm with the provider the exact cut-off time for late entry.
Breaks are not normally allowed during the exam. If you need to use the restroom, raise your hand and wait for an invigilator to accompany you. This will count against your exam time. Confirm with the provider the restroom policy.
Write in blue or black ink. Pencil is only allowed for multiple-choice answer sheets. Do not use correction fluid or tape; cross out mistakes neatly.
Follow the invigilator's instructions at all times. Any form of cheating, including looking at another candidate's paper or talking, will result in disqualification.
Scoring is based on the official marking criteria for the Madrid PAU. Each section is weighted; check the official guidelines for the weight of text commentary, literature, and language questions. Confirm with the provider the exact weighting for your year.