Land and House Surveyor Examination exam-day guide
Land and House Surveyor Examination · Prepare for the day ahead.
Your checklist
Admission ticket / confirmation letter
Print or download the confirmation email from the testing provider. Confirm the exact venue, date, and reporting time. If you have not received it, contact the provider immediately-do not assume the exam is at a familiar location.
Acceptable photo ID
Bring the original, unexpired ID specified by the provider (typically a passport or national photo ID). Check the provider’s ID policy for name matching and whether photocopies are accepted. If unsure, confirm with the provider.
Permitted reference materials
Check the exam regulations for whether any annotated statutes, regulations, or formula sheets are allowed. Most closed-book exams permit none; assume nothing and confirm with the provider.
Approved calculator
If a calculator is allowed, verify the permitted type (non-programmable, no communication capability). Bring a familiar model and spare batteries. If the provider supplies one, confirm that in advance.
Writing instruments and scale
Bring several HB pencils, a sharpener, an eraser, and black/blue pens. For plan-reading or drafting tasks, confirm whether a scale rule, set square, or protractor is permitted; if not stated, ask the provider.
Watch (non-smart)
A simple analogue or digital watch helps pace yourself if the room clock is not visible. Smart watches and phones are usually prohibited at the desk; confirm the provider’s policy on wrist devices.
Clear water bottle and snack
Bring water in a transparent bottle if permitted. For longer sittings, a quiet snack may be allowed during breaks; check the venue rules. Avoid noisy packaging.
Travel plan and backup route
Reconfirm transport timetables and journey time. Identify a backup route and arrive with at least 30–45 minutes to spare. Check for local disruptions (roadworks, strikes, weather) the day before.
Review key formulas and definitions
Prepare a one-page summary of core surveying formulas (e.g., leveling reductions, coordinate geometry, area computations) and statutory definitions. Use it only for revision before entering the hall; do not bring it inside unless explicitly allowed.
Rest and logistics
Plan a normal night’s sleep, a proper meal, and any medication you need. Confirm whether the venue has storage for bags and whether you can leave early if finished.
Provider’s exam-day instructions
Read the current candidate handbook or information sheet for arrival times, security screening, and prohibited items. Policies vary by jurisdiction and session; confirm with the provider rather than relying on past experience.
Emergency contact and provider phone number
Save the testing provider’s contact number in your phone and on paper. If you are delayed or unwell, call as soon as possible to ask about options. Do not assume a late arrival will be admitted-confirm with the provider.
Plan the day
Confirm the venue, reporting time, and ID requirements. Re-read the provider’s candidate handbook for conduct rules, permitted items, and break policy. Print your admission ticket and a backup copy. Check transport schedules and any local disruptions.
Switch from learning new material to consolidating. Review your formula sheet, statutory definitions, and common calculation procedures. Do one timed practice section under exam conditions to check pacing and calculator familiarity.
Pack your bag: ID, admission ticket, pens/pencils, eraser, approved calculator, spare batteries, watch, water, and any permitted materials. Lay out clothes. Confirm the alarm and a backup wake-up. Avoid intensive study late in the day; a light review of key points is enough.
Check the venue’s access details (entrance, parking, public transport). Eat a normal meal and aim for a full night’s sleep. Do not rely on caffeine or late-night cramming to compensate for fatigue.
Eat a proper breakfast and hydrate. Arrive at the venue with at least 30–45 minutes to spare. Recheck that your ID and admission ticket are accessible. Leave phones and smart devices switched off and stored as instructed.
If you are delayed, contact the provider immediately. Do not assume you will be admitted after the start time; the provider’s late-arrival policy applies. Stay calm and follow staff instructions at the venue.
Read the instructions on the front of the paper carefully, including the number of questions and any choice requirements. Note the start and finish times and plan how long to spend on each section. Answer the easiest questions first if that helps you settle.
For calculation questions, write down the formula before substituting values, keep units consistent, and check whether the answer is reasonable. For plan-reading or descriptive questions, identify the key features and use precise technical terms.
If you get stuck, mark the question and move on. Leave time to return to it. For multiple-choice questions, eliminate clearly wrong options and check that you have transferred answers correctly if using a separate answer sheet.
Use breaks only as permitted by the invigilator. If you need to leave the room, follow the provider’s procedure; do not take materials with you unless instructed. At the end, check that your name and candidate number are on all answer documents before handing them in.
Rules to check
Bring the exact ID specified by the provider and ensure the name matches your registration. If your ID is expired or the name differs, contact the provider before exam day; do not assume an alternative will be accepted.
Arrive at the reporting time stated in your admission ticket. Late admission is at the provider’s discretion and may not be allowed; confirm the late-arrival policy with the provider.
Phones, smart watches, and other electronic devices must be switched off and stored as instructed. Do not keep them at your desk. If you are unsure whether a device is permitted, ask the invigilator before the exam starts.
Do not communicate with other candidates during the exam. Raise your hand if you need an invigilator. Any form of communication or unauthorized material may lead to disqualification under the provider’s misconduct rules.
Breaks are usually only permitted in accordance with the provider’s policy. If you leave the room, you may be escorted and cannot take exam materials with you. Confirm the break rules for your session with the provider.
Scoring and pass marks are set by the provider. Do not rely on rumoured pass marks; check the current candidate handbook for the scoring method and any sectional requirements. If the handbook is unclear, confirm with the provider.
Follow the invigilator’s instructions at all times, including on starting and stopping writing. Writing after the instruction to stop may be treated as misconduct. If you finish early, remain seated unless told otherwise.
If you believe there is an error in the paper or a disruption during the exam, report it to the invigilator immediately and follow the provider’s procedure for special consideration. Do not attempt to resolve it yourself after the exam without contacting the provider.