ICDL Spreadsheets (ICDL) exam-day guide
ICDL Spreadsheets · Prepare for the day ahead.
Your checklist
Confirm test format and platform with your approved test centre
ICDL tests are typically delivered at an approved test centre, though some regions offer remote/online proctored testing. Confirm which applies to you, and whether the practical spreadsheet test is taken on the centre's machine or your own.
Valid photo ID
Bring the specific ID document your provider requires (often a passport or national ID card). Exact accepted documents vary by country and centre, so confirm the accepted list with your provider before test day.
Test appointment confirmation and candidate number
Have your booking confirmation and any candidate/registration number with you, either printed or on your phone. Confirm whether the centre requires a printed copy.
Arrive early
Plan to arrive ahead of your scheduled time to allow for check-in and ID verification. Confirm the exact arrival buffer with your test centre.
Know what materials are allowed
Most practical spreadsheet tests do not permit notes, books, or a phone at the workstation. Confirm with the provider what, if anything, you may bring into the test room.
Practice on the same spreadsheet application version
ICDL Spreadsheets is application-neutral in skills but you will use a specific spreadsheet program. Practise on the version available at the centre if you can confirm it; otherwise practise core skills in any mainstream spreadsheet application.
Know the core skill areas cold
Be able to create and format worksheets, use formulas and common functions, build charts, sort and filter data, and prepare printing/page setup. These are the practical areas you will actually perform, not just describe.
Prepare for file save/location conventions
Practise saving files to a specified folder and with a specified filename and format, since practical tasks often require working to a given save location and name.
Plan for accessibility or special arrangements
If you need extra time or other accommodations, request them from the provider well in advance. Do not assume they are granted automatically.
Confirm scoring and pass mark
Ask your provider for the current pass mark and whether the result is shown immediately. Do not rely on figures you have heard informally.
Rest and logistics plan
Know the travel route and time to the centre, and get normal sleep. Avoid last-minute cramming of new functions the night before.
Backup plan for remote testing (if applicable)
If testing remotely, confirm system requirements, internet stability, webcam/microphone, and the provider's rules on environment and desk clearance. Confirm all of this with the provider.
Plan the day
Do timed practice runs on full spreadsheet tasks, not just isolated functions. Focus on weak areas such as functions, charts, and page setup. Check your travel and appointment logistics.
Light review of function names, formula syntax, and chart/print options. Prepare your ID and confirmation documents. Confirm start time and location. Stop heavy study and get a full night's sleep.
Eat normally, arrive early, and re-read the appointment details. Bring only what the provider permits. Keep calm and avoid trying to learn new material.
Read each task fully before acting, and note the required filename, folder, and format. Work steadily; save work as instructed. If a task stalls, move on and return if time allows. Follow the on-screen instructions and proctor directions exactly.
Rules to check
Follow all instructions from the test centre staff and proctor. Their directions on seating, materials, and conduct take precedence.
Bring only the ID and materials the provider permits. Phones and personal notes are typically not allowed at the workstation; confirm the exact list with the provider.
Do not communicate with other candidates or access outside help during the test. Treat it as a formal assessment.
Confirm the provider's policy on breaks before test day. Do not assume unscheduled breaks are allowed or that the clock stops.
Ask the provider in advance about accommodations and how to request them; do not assume they are automatic.
Confirm the current pass mark and result-reporting method with your provider rather than relying on secondhand information.
If you experience a technical problem, stop and alert the invigilator or proctor immediately rather than trying to fix it yourself.
Save files exactly as instructed, including filename, folder, and format, since tasks are often assessed on the saved output.