IBITGQ C-DORA exam-day guide
IBITGQ C-DORA · Prepare for the day ahead.
Your checklist
Valid government-issued photo ID
Bring the same ID document whose details you used at registration, and check that the name matches exactly. If you plan to use a different document, confirm with the provider in advance whether it is accepted.
Appointment confirmation and candidate number
Have the booking confirmation email or candidate reference accessible, printed or on your phone, so you can quote it quickly if the provider needs to locate your registration.
Exam delivery details confirmed with the provider
Confirm the exact start time, time zone, platform or test-centre address, and the permitted exam format (online proctored or in person). These details vary by provider and session; verify them rather than assuming.
Remote-proctoring system check completed
If you are taking the exam online, run any required system or equipment test the provider offers, ideally a few days before. Confirm browser, webcam, microphone and bandwidth requirements with the provider.
Stable internet and a quiet private room
For online delivery, use a wired or reliable connection and a closed room with no other people, no second screens, and no materials on the desk unless the provider permits them. Confirm the room rules with the provider.
Approved reference materials, if any
Ask the provider whether the exam is closed-book or open-book and which documents, if any, are permitted. Do not bring notes or standards unless explicitly allowed; if unsure, treat it as closed-book and confirm with the provider.
Water and any permitted comfort items
Check the provider's rules on drinks, snacks, medication and tissues before the exam. Some proctoring services restrict items on the desk, so confirm what is allowed.
Pen and paper only if permitted
Scratch paper and pens are often prohibited in proctored online exams and sometimes supplied at test centres. Confirm the rule with the provider; if not confirmed, do not bring them.
A backup plan for technical failure
Know the provider's support phone number or contact channel and have a charged phone nearby (unless prohibited) so you can report a disconnection promptly. Confirm the incident-reporting procedure with the provider.
Rest and logistics planned
Plan travel time or log-in time with a buffer, get a normal night's sleep, and avoid last-minute cramming of new material. Arrive or log in early as instructed, but not so early that you wait anxiously.
Syllabus-level review of DORA topics, not new material
In the final days, review the exam syllabus topics and your own summary notes: DORA's scope and proportionality, ICT risk management, incident reporting, resilience testing, third-party risk, and information sharing. Confirm the official syllabus and weighting with the provider.
needs_review: Provider-specific rules on breaks, calculators and dictionaries
Rules on scheduled breaks, calculators, and language dictionaries differ between providers and delivery modes. Do not assume; confirm each item with the provider before exam day.
Plan the day
Re-read the official syllabus and confirm the exam format, duration, number of questions, pass mark and permitted materials with the provider. Build a one-page summary of DORA's main pillars and the terms you keep confusing, and review only that page plus your notes. Stop learning new topics.
Complete any system or equipment check for online delivery and test your webcam, microphone and connection. Confirm your ID document is valid and the name matches your registration. Check travel arrangements or the test-centre address and opening time if you are attending in person.
Do a light review of the syllabus headings and your summary page, then stop. Prepare your ID, confirmation and any permitted items in one place. Confirm the start time in your own time zone, set two alarms, and avoid alcohol or a late night.
Eat normally, log in or arrive with the buffer the provider recommends, and close unnecessary applications and notifications. Have your ID and confirmation ready. If a technical problem occurs, contact provider support immediately and note the time and what happened.
Read each question fully and watch for qualifiers such as 'not', 'best' and 'most likely'. Answer the questions you know first, flag uncertain ones, and return to them. For scenario questions, identify which DORA pillar or obligation the scenario concerns before choosing. Keep an eye on the clock and reserve time to review flagged items. Do not leave the view of the camera or desk if proctoring rules prohibit it.
Note any technical incidents and report them to the provider if they affected delivery. Record your result and, if you did not pass, note which syllabus areas cost you marks so your next attempt is targeted.
Rules to check
Bring the ID document specified by the provider and ensure the name matches your registration exactly. If your ID has changed or the names differ, contact the provider before exam day; do not assume an alternative document will be accepted.
Follow the provider's rules on permitted materials. Unless the provider has confirmed the exam is open-book, assume it is closed-book and keep notes, standards and second screens out of reach.
For proctored online exams, stay within camera view, keep your desk clear, and do not communicate with anyone or use unauthorised devices. Confirm the specific proctoring rules, including room scans and breaks, with the provider.
If a technical failure or interruption occurs, stop and contact provider support as instructed, and record the time and details. Do not attempt to restart or continue in a way the provider has not authorised; confirm the incident procedure with the provider.
Breaks are usually limited or unavailable during a timed exam, and leaving the view may be treated as a violation. Confirm the break policy for your delivery mode with the provider before exam day.
Scoring, the pass mark, and whether wrong answers are penalised are set by the provider. Check the current exam regulations rather than relying on second-hand accounts, and answer every question unless the rules state otherwise.
Report any suspected irregularity or unfair condition to the provider through its official channel rather than to the invigilator or proctor alone, and keep copies of correspondence.
Do not represent yourself as officially affiliated with or endorsed by the exam owner. Use only the preparation materials and syllabus the provider publishes or permits.