Valencian Community PAU History of Spain exam-day guide
Valencian Community PAU History of Spain · Prepare for the day ahead.
Your checklist
Official ID (DNI or passport)
Bring the original document, valid and in good condition. The exact ID requirements are set by the Comisión Organizadora; confirm with the provider (your school or the Universitat) which documents are accepted.
Exam admission slip or registration proof
Print or download any proof of registration or admission issued by the university or the Conselleria. The specific format and whether it is mandatory must be confirmed with the provider.
Blue or black ballpoint pens (at least two)
Write legibly; the exam is handwritten. Bring spare pens. Pencil is not acceptable for the final answers, though it may be used for rough work if allowed.
Pencil, eraser, and sharpener
Useful for rough notes and for any diagrams (e.g., timelines or maps) if you choose to include them. Confirm whether rough work is permitted on the answer sheet.
Wristwatch (non-smart)
Exam rooms may not have a visible clock. A simple analog or digital watch without communication features is allowed. Smartwatches are prohibited.
Clear water bottle (no label)
Stay hydrated. The container must be transparent and without a label. Confirm with the provider whether water is allowed in the exam room.
Light snack for after the exam
The History exam may be scheduled with other exams on the same day. Bring a snack to eat outside the exam room during breaks.
Review the exam structure and scoring criteria
Know the sections (e.g., source analysis, thematic question, definitions) and how marks are distributed. The official structure is published by the Comisión Organizadora; confirm the latest version with your teacher.
Practice with past papers under timed conditions
Use official PAU models from previous years (available from the Conselleria or your school) to familiarise yourself with the format and time pressure.
Prepare a concise summary of key periods and concepts
Create a one-page timeline or list of major events (e.g., Restoration, Second Republic, Francoism, Transition) and key terms to review in the final days.
Confirm exam location, date, and time
Check the official call (llamamiento) published by the university. Arrive early. The exact location and schedule must be confirmed with the provider.
Check allowed materials
The use of dictionaries, calculators, or other materials is not permitted in History, but confirm with the provider in case of any updates.
Plan the day
Review your summary sheets and timelines. Focus on the most heavily weighted topics (e.g., 19th-century Spain, Second Republic, Civil War, Francoism, Transition). Do one full past paper under timed conditions and self-assess using the official marking criteria.
Review source analysis techniques: identifying the nature of the source, its origin, purpose, and historical context. Practice writing a short commentary on a text or image. Check that you have all required documents (ID, admission slip) and materials.
Light review only: skim key dates and names. Prepare your bag with pens, ID, admission slip, watch, water, and snack. Confirm the exam location and transport. Get a good night's sleep; avoid cramming new material.
Eat a proper breakfast. Arrive at the exam centre at least 30 minutes early. Have your ID and admission slip ready. Avoid discussing topics with other candidates to keep calm. Use the restroom before entering the room.
Read the entire exam paper carefully. Note the instructions and mark allocations. Choose your questions strategically (if there is a choice). Plan your time: allocate minutes proportionally to the marks for each section.
Start with the section you feel most confident about, but keep to your time plan. Write clearly and structure answers with an introduction, body, and conclusion. For source analysis, quote briefly and explain. Leave 5–10 minutes at the end to review your answers and check for omissions.
Rules to check
Bring original, valid ID (DNI or passport). The exact documents accepted must be confirmed with the provider; without proper ID you may be denied entry.
Electronic devices (mobile phones, smartwatches, tablets) must be switched off and stored away. Their use during the exam is considered misconduct.
No talking, passing materials, or looking at others' papers. Any irregular behaviour can lead to expulsion from the exam.
Breaks are generally not permitted during the exam. If you need to leave the room temporarily, you will be accompanied; confirm the specific policy with the provider.
Write only in the designated answer booklet. Rough work should be clearly marked and crossed out if not part of your final answer.
Scoring is based on the official criteria published by the Comisión Organizadora. Answers must be original and in Spanish (or Valencian if the exam is taken in that language). Confirm the language option with the provider.
Follow the invigilators' instructions at all times. Do not start writing until told to do so, and stop immediately when time is called.
If you have a disability or special needs, request accommodations in advance through the official channel. Confirm deadlines and procedures with the provider.