KPG German exam-day guide
KPG German · Prepare for the day ahead.
Your checklist
Valid photo ID (passport or national ID card)
Bring the original document, not a copy. Check that the name matches your registration exactly. If you are unsure which ID types are accepted or whether a residence permit is allowed, confirm with the provider before exam day.
Admission confirmation / registration printout
Print or save the confirmation email showing your test date, time, location, and registration number. Having it on your phone is useful, but a paper copy avoids problems if your phone battery dies.
Know the exact venue and arrival route
Look up the address the day before and plan your route. If the venue is a school or university building, check which entrance is used for exams. Arrive early enough to find the room without stress.
Punctual arrival - confirm the required arrival time with the provider
Exam centres often require you to be present well before the start for ID checks and seating. The exact cut-off time and late-entry policy vary, so confirm with the provider rather than assuming.
Black or blue ballpoint pens (at least two)
Writing sections are usually completed on paper. Bring reliable pens and test them beforehand. Pencil is normally only for answer sheets if the centre instructs it, so confirm what is allowed.
Pencil, eraser, and sharpener (if permitted)
Some answer sheets require pencil marks. Check the provider's list of permitted materials, because rules on what may be on your desk vary between centres.
Wristwatch (non-smart, analogue or simple digital)
Not all exam rooms have a visible clock. A simple watch helps you pace the reading and writing sections. Smartwatches and phones are almost always prohibited at the desk.
Water in a transparent bottle and a small snack for breaks
Long exams can be tiring. Confirm whether drinks are allowed at the desk and whether there is a supervised break area. Keep labels off bottles if the centre requires transparent containers.
Leave phone and smart devices switched off and stored as instructed
Even a phone that rings or vibrates during the exam can lead to disqualification. Follow the centre's storage instructions exactly. Do not keep any device in your pocket.
Review the format and timing of each section
Know how many sections there are, their order, and roughly how long each lasts. This reduces surprises and helps you allocate time. Confirm the current format with the provider, as it can change.
Prepare for the speaking component (if your exam includes one)
Check whether the speaking test is on the same day or a different day, and whether you will be tested alone or in a pair. Confirm the procedure with the provider so you know what to expect.
Check accessibility or special arrangements in advance (needs_review)
If you need extra time, a separate room, or other accommodations, request them well before the exam. The deadline and evidence required vary; confirm with the provider. This item is marked needs_review because policies differ by centre.
Plan the day
Confirm logistics: re-read your admission confirmation, check the venue address and travel time, and decide how you will get there. Print the confirmation if you have not already. Check the provider's list of permitted and prohibited items so you do not bring something that will be confiscated.
Do a light format review rather than cramming new material. Skim the structure of each section, remind yourself of the timing, and practise one short task per skill. Stop studying early enough to sleep well.
Prepare your bag: ID, confirmation, pens, pencil, eraser, watch, water, and snack. Put everything in one place so the morning is calm. Check the weather forecast and plan clothing layers, since exam rooms can be warm or cold.
Re-check the exam start time and required arrival time on your confirmation. Set two alarms. Avoid heavy study; a brief review of your own notes is enough. Eat a normal meal and go to bed at a reasonable hour.
Charge your phone but plan not to rely on it during the exam. If you use a watch, set it accurately. Confirm your travel route and have a backup plan in case of transport delays.
Eat a proper breakfast and drink water. Arrive at the venue with time to spare. Keep your ID and confirmation easy to reach. Switch off your phone before entering the building and store it as instructed.
Use the waiting time to settle yourself, not to cram. Listen carefully to the invigilator's instructions about filling in your answer sheet, timing, and rules for leaving the room. Ask if something is unclear before the exam begins.
Read the instructions for each section carefully and note the time limit. Work at a steady pace and leave a few minutes to check your answers. If you get stuck, move on and return later. For writing, plan briefly before you start and watch the clock.
For listening, focus on the audio as it plays and do not panic if you miss a word; use the questions to guide you. For reading, skim the text first and then locate the answers. For speaking, speak clearly, keep going, and use the preparation time to note key words.
Follow the invigilator's instructions for handing in materials and leaving. Do not discuss the content with other candidates in the exam area. Check with the provider how and when results will be released.
Rules to check
Bring the original valid photo ID document used at registration. Copies and expired documents are generally not accepted. If you are unsure whether your document type is accepted, confirm with the provider before exam day.
Arrive at the time stated on your admission confirmation. Late arrival may mean you are refused entry or given less time. The exact cut-off is set by the provider, so confirm it in advance.
Switch off all phones and smart devices and store them where the invigilator instructs. Do not keep any device on your person. Unauthorised devices or materials at the desk can lead to disqualification.
Follow all instructions from the invigilator. Do not start before you are told and stop immediately when time is called. Writing after the end of a section may be treated as misconduct.
Communicate only with the invigilator during the exam. Do not talk to other candidates, look at their work, or share materials. If you need to leave the room, raise your hand and wait for permission.
Breaks are usually limited and supervised. Confirm the provider's policy on toilet breaks and whether you can leave the room during a section. Time lost may not be added back.
Results and scoring are determined by the provider. Do not rely on unofficial pass marks or score conversions. Check the official website or your confirmation for how and when results are issued.
If you have a disability or health condition that requires adjustments, request them well before the exam and provide any required evidence. The deadline and process vary, so confirm with the provider.