ICDL Documents (advanced) exam-day guide
ICDL Documents · Prepare for the day ahead.
Your checklist
Confirm test format and delivery method with your test centre
ICDL Documents is typically a short, scenario-based practical test taken on a computer at an approved test centre, but delivery arrangements vary. Confirm with the provider whether you sit it on-site or remotely, and what software version is used.
Valid photo ID
Bring the original, unexpired photo identification your test centre requires. Acceptable document types differ by country and centre, so confirm the exact list with the provider before test day.
Test appointment confirmation
Have your booking reference, appointment time, and centre address or remote-session link available on paper or on your phone.
Know your candidate/registration number
If your provider issues one, note it down. Confirm with the provider whether it is needed at check-in.
Arrive early / log in early
Arrive at the centre or open the remote proctoring session with time to spare for ID checks and workstation setup. The exact recommended arrival window should be confirmed with your provider.
Practise the Documents task types
Be comfortable creating, formatting, and editing word-processed documents: text entry, character and paragraph formatting, styles, tables, images, page setup, headers/footers, and printing or exporting. These are the core skill areas the practical test assesses.
Know the software you will be tested on
Practise in the same word-processing application and version the test centre uses. Confirm the version with the provider if it is not stated in your joining instructions.
Review the syllabus/assessment areas
Check the current ICDL Documents syllabus or skill list from your provider so you know the scope of tasks and can target weak areas.
File-management basics
Be able to open, save, save-as, and locate files in the folders the test uses. Practise navigating a file dialog and saving to a specified location.
Plan for accessibility or special arrangements
If you need extra time or other accommodations, request them well ahead. Confirm the provider's process and deadlines directly.
Settle logistics (travel, parking, remote setup)
Check travel time, parking, or your remote-session environment (quiet room, stable connection, working webcam/microphone if required). Confirm remote technical requirements with the provider.
Read the on-screen instructions carefully
The practical test gives task instructions on screen. Practise reading instructions fully and following them exactly, including file names and save locations.
Plan the day
Do timed practice runs in the target word-processing software. Focus on the areas you are least confident in (e.g., tables, styles, page layout). Re-read the syllabus and tick off each skill area. Confirm your appointment details, ID requirements, and any remote-session technical requirements with the provider.
Light review only; do not cram new material. Prepare your ID and appointment confirmation. Check travel or remote-setup logistics. Get a good night's sleep. If testing remotely, confirm your connection, webcam, and software are working and that the room meets any proctoring rules the provider specifies.
Eat and arrive or log in early as advised by your provider. Re-read your ID and booking details. Do a quick mental checklist of core operations (open, format, save, print/export). Stay calm and read every on-screen instruction before acting.
Read each task instruction fully before starting. Work methodically and save as instructed. If a task is unclear, use whatever help or clarification procedure the provider allows rather than guessing silently. Watch your time and leave a few minutes to check your work and confirm saves. Follow all proctoring and conduct rules.
Rules to check
Bring the original photo ID your provider requires; confirm the accepted document types with the provider in advance, as rules vary by country and centre.
Follow all instructions from invigilators and proctors, and comply with any rules on prohibited materials, phones, and notes. Confirm what is and is not permitted with the provider.
Unless your provider explicitly permits it, do not use reference materials, the internet, or other people's help during the test. Ask the provider what resources, if any, are allowed.
Breaks and timing: confirm with the provider whether breaks are allowed and how they affect your test time. Do not assume you can leave and resume.
Scoring: ICDL practical tests are generally marked against the tasks performed rather than a simple percentage, and results are issued through your provider. Confirm the pass criteria and result timeline with the provider rather than relying on assumptions.
If you have a technical problem or a task appears faulty, stop and alert the invigilator or proctor immediately; do not attempt to fix the system yourself.
Arrive or log in on time; late arrival or session rules are set by the provider, so confirm the policy in advance.
Keep your candidate details and results confidential, and follow the provider's rules on sharing or disputing results.