BM Coiffure exam-day guide
BM Coiffure · Prepare for the day ahead.
Your checklist
Valid government-issued photo ID
Bring the same ID used at registration. Confirm with the provider which forms of ID are accepted and whether a second ID is required.
Exam admission/confirmation document
Bring your scheduling confirmation, admission ticket, or candidate number if one was issued. Confirm with the provider whether a printed copy is required or a digital copy is acceptable.
Model or client arrangements (if applicable)
Some practical hair exams require you to bring a model or client. Confirm with the provider whether a model is required, what consent or identification the model must present, and any time limits for arrival.
Professional kit and tools
Bring the tools the exam specifies (shears, combs, clips, cape, sanitizing supplies, etc.). Confirm with the provider the exact required tool list and any prohibited items.
Sanitation and PPE supplies
Bring items such as gloves, disinfectant, and waste bags if the exam requires them. Confirm with the provider which sanitation products and PPE are mandatory versus optional.
Professional attire and closed-toe shoes
Dress in clean, professional clothing suitable for a salon floor. Confirm with the provider whether a uniform, apron, or specific dress code is required.
Water and a light snack
Practical exams can run several hours. Confirm with the provider whether food and drink are allowed in the testing area or only during breaks.
Review the candidate handbook and scoring rubric
Read the provider's candidate handbook for time limits, task list, and scoring criteria before exam day. Confirm with the provider where the current handbook is published.
Plan transportation and arrival time
Arrive at the time stated on your admission document; late arrival rules vary. Confirm with the provider the arrival window and what happens if you are late.
Leave valuables and unauthorized electronics at home or secured
Phones, smartwatches, and other devices are commonly restricted during testing. Confirm with the provider the exact policy on personal devices and storage.
Plan the day
Re-read the candidate handbook and the task list. Do a full dry run of every required service on a practice model, timing each section against the exam's time limits. Inventory your kit against the required tool list and replace anything missing or dull. Confirm your model's availability and arrival instructions if a model is required. Confirm with the provider any last-minute logistics you are unsure about.
Pack your kit and lay out your ID and admission documents. Sharpen shears and check that sanitation supplies are stocked. Confirm transportation and set two alarms. Get a full night's sleep; avoid cramming new techniques the night before.
Eat a real meal and hydrate. Dress in professional attire. Do a final kit check against your list. Arrive at the stated time with ID and admission documents in hand. If bringing a model, confirm they are on their way and know where to go.
Listen carefully to the examiner's instructions and ask clarifying questions only when permitted. Work steadily within each section's time limit rather than perfecting one area. Maintain sanitation throughout and keep your station organized. Follow all safety rules for tools and chemicals. If you finish early, use remaining time to check your work against the rubric rather than leaving.
Rules to check
Bring valid photo ID matching your registration; candidates without acceptable ID may be turned away. Confirm with the provider the exact ID requirements.
Follow the examiner's instructions at all times, including start and stop signals for each section. Continuing to work after a stop signal may cost points or void a section.
Personal devices such as phones and smartwatches are typically prohibited in the testing area. Confirm with the provider the device policy and where to store belongings.
Break and restroom policies vary by exam length and provider. Confirm with the provider when breaks are allowed and whether the clock stops during them.
Maintain sanitation and safety standards throughout; unsafe tool handling or chemical use can be grounds for point deductions or dismissal. Confirm with the provider the specific safety rules that apply.
Do not communicate with other candidates or your model beyond what the exam permits. Confirm with the provider what interaction with a model is allowed during the service.
Scoring is based on the provider's published rubric, and some tasks may be pass/fail. Confirm with the provider how sections are weighted and what the passing score is.
If you believe an exam condition was unfair, note it and follow the provider's appeals or reporting procedure after the exam rather than arguing during testing. Confirm with the provider the appeal process and deadlines.