IATI Diploma exam-day guide
IATI Diploma · Prepare for the day ahead.
Your checklist
Government-issued photo ID
Bring the original ID document, not a photocopy. The exact accepted ID types and name-matching requirements vary by provider, so confirm with the provider which documents are accepted and make sure your registered name matches your ID.
Exam appointment confirmation
Have the confirmation email or booking reference available, either printed or on your phone. Confirm the exact start time, time zone, and venue or platform link with the provider.
Login credentials and system check
If the exam is delivered remotely, verify your username, password, and any required authentication in advance. Run any system or equipment check the provider offers before exam day.
Approved calculator or tools
Check the provider's list of permitted aids (calculator model, formula sheet, scratch paper, or none) and bring only what is allowed. Do not assume a device is permitted; confirm with the provider.
Quiet, distraction-free environment
For remote exams, arrange a private room, stable internet, and a charged device with a backup power source. The provider may require a specific camera or room setup, so confirm the technical requirements.
Plan travel and arrival time
For in-person exams, know the route and aim to arrive with buffer time. The provider sets the arrival and late-entry cut-off, so confirm how early to arrive and what happens if you are late.
Rest, food, and water
Sleep well the night before and eat a normal meal beforehand. Bring water only if the provider allows it in the exam room; confirm the rules on drinks and snacks.
Know the format and time allocation
Review the number of questions, time limit, and question style from the provider's official exam guide. Decide in advance how you will pace yourself and how much time to leave for review.
Review key formulas and definitions
Use a short, high-level review of core concepts rather than learning new material. Rely on your own notes and the provider's published syllabus.
Backup contact for the provider
Save the provider's support phone number or email in case of technical problems or venue issues. Confirm the correct contact channel for exam-day problems.
Plan the day
Confirm appointment details, venue or platform link, start time, and time zone with the provider. Check ID validity and name matching. Gather permitted tools and complete any required system checks.
Do a final review of high-yield topics and formulas. Take one short practice set under timed conditions to check pacing, then stop adding new material.
Pack ID, confirmation, and permitted tools. Charge devices and prepare a backup power source for remote exams. Confirm travel plans. Get a full night's sleep and avoid cramming late.
Eat a normal meal, arrive early or log in ahead of time, and re-check your setup. Keep the provider's support contact handy. Avoid discussing exam content with others before the test.
Read instructions carefully, note the time limit, and work at a steady pace. Answer easier questions first, flag uncertain ones, and reserve time to review flagged items. Follow all proctor or invigilator instructions.
Note any issues (technical problems, timing disruptions) and report them to the provider promptly if they affected your performance. Confirm with the provider how and when results are released.
Rules to check
Bring valid photo ID in the exact form the provider accepts; if you are unsure, confirm with the provider before exam day.
Follow all instructions from the invigilator or proctor. Do not start writing or begin the exam before you are told to, and stop when instructed.
Keep only permitted items at your desk. Phones, smart devices, notes, and unauthorized materials should be stored as the provider directs.
Breaks are governed by provider policy. Do not leave the exam room or pause the test without permission; confirm the break rules with the provider.
Do not communicate with other candidates during the exam and do not share or discuss exam content afterward in ways the provider prohibits.
If a technical or personal issue arises, notify the proctor or provider immediately rather than trying to resolve it silently.
Scoring, pass marks, and any penalties for misconduct are set by the provider. Review the published scoring and conduct policy rather than assuming the thresholds.
If you are unsure about any rule, ask the provider in advance. Do not guess at a policy that has not been confirmed.