IFoA SP9 exam-day guide
IFoA SP9 · Prepare for the day ahead.
Your checklist
Photo ID
Bring a current passport or driving licence whose name matches your IFoA registration exactly. Confirm the accepted ID types and validity with the IFoA before exam day.
Exam booking confirmation and candidate number
Have your booking email, candidate number and exact start time, including time zone, accessible. Confirm the session details in your IFoA account.
Approved calculator
Use a calculator permitted under IFoA exam regulations. Check the current approved list, bring spare batteries or a second permitted calculator, and practise on the same model.
Permitted materials
Confirm whether SP9 allows any printed or on-screen reference material. Do not assume open-book access; prepare as if only the exam paper and permitted calculator are available.
Computer, webcam and microphone
Use a reliable computer with a working camera and microphone if the exam is remotely proctored. Run the provider's system test at least 24 hours ahead.
Stable internet and backup
Have a charger, wired connection or phone hotspot, and a backup device or phone. Know the provider's technical-support contact.
Quiet, well-lit room
Clear your desk, close other applications, and remove notes and unauthorised devices. Be ready for a room scan if required.
Scratch paper, pen or on-screen whiteboard
Confirm the allowed note-taking method. If physical paper is permitted, show blank sheets if asked; if not, practise with the on-screen tool.
Timer or clock
Know how to check remaining time in the exam platform. Plan checkpoint times for each question.
Water and medication
Keep water and necessary medication nearby only if permitted. Confirm break and desk rules with the provider.
Exam regulations and handbook
Read the current IFoA exam regulations and online-exam guidance. Note rules on conduct, plagiarism, collusion and technical incidents.
Support contact
Save the IFoA exam-support and proctor contact details before the exam. Report technical issues immediately through the stated channel.
Plan the day
Re-read the exam regulations and SP9 syllabus. Confirm start time and time zone. Run a full technology check. Complete at least one timed SP9 paper and review command words and ERM frameworks such as risk appetite, governance, risk identification and assessment, controls, capital and reporting.
Prepare concise answer templates for common SP9 question types: explain a risk framework, assess governance weaknesses, recommend risk treatment, discuss stakeholder concerns, and evaluate capital or reporting implications. Keep them as prompts, not memorised answers.
Run the final system test, charge devices, pack ID and permitted calculator, and confirm login details. Do light revision only: definitions, command words and time allocation. Avoid new topics, set alarms and sleep.
Log in early, close all other applications, place ID and permitted items on the desk, and keep water nearby if allowed. Read the platform instructions carefully and note the start and end times.
Read all questions and parts. Choose an order that banks marks early. Allocate minutes per question and leave time to check and submit. Underline command words such as explain, discuss, evaluate and recommend.
Answer in the context of the scenario. Apply ERM concepts explicitly, show workings for calculations, and answer every part. Use headings and short paragraphs. Save frequently and monitor checkpoint times.
Check that every question has an answer, complete any missing part, review calculations and submit before the deadline. Keep the submission confirmation.
Rules to check
You must present valid photo ID matching your registration. Candidates without accepted ID may be refused entry; confirm accepted ID with the IFoA.
Follow all IFoA exam regulations and proctor instructions, including room scans, desk clearance, and the ban on unauthorised materials or devices.
Do not communicate with others during the exam. Collusion, plagiarism and sharing exam content are misconduct.
Breaks are generally not allowed during timed exams unless the provider's rules permit them. Confirm the break and restroom policy before exam day.
Answers must be your own work. Do not copy prepared text or use unauthorised sources; reference material only if the exam rules permit it.
Marks are awarded against the syllabus learning outcomes and command words. Apply ERM concepts to the scenario and show workings rather than giving generic theory.
If a technical failure occurs, report it immediately through the provider's stated channel and follow their instructions. Do not continue silently.
Submit before the deadline. Late or incomplete uploads may not be marked; confirm that the platform has accepted your submission.