Nissho Bookkeeping Grade 3 exam-day guide
Nissho Bookkeeping Grade 3 · Prepare for the day ahead.
Your checklist
受験票（Exam voucher / admission slip）
Print or download the voucher from the official portal. Confirm the test date, time, venue, and your name. If you cannot locate it, contact the provider immediately; do not assume you can enter without it.
Photo identification (photo ID)
Bring the ID type specified by the test provider (e.g., driver's license, passport, residence card). The name must match your registration. Confirm accepted ID types and whether expired IDs are allowed with the provider.
Writing utensils (pencils and eraser)
The exam is answered on a mark sheet (マークシート). Bring several HB or B pencils and a clean eraser. Mechanical pencils may or may not be permitted; confirm with the provider. Do not bring red pens or correction tape.
Watch (non-smart, no alarm)
A simple analog or digital watch without communication functions. Smartwatches and alarm sounds are generally prohibited. Confirm whether a watch is allowed in your test room, as some venues provide a clock.
Calculator
The Nissho Bookkeeping Grade 3 practical exam (日商簿記3級 実技) generally allows a calculator, but the exact permitted functions depend on the provider's current rules. Confirm whether programmable or function-rich calculators are allowed. Bring a quiet, non-printing model.
Mask, tissues, and hand sanitizer
Follow the latest health guidance from the provider. Bring a mask if required or if you prefer. These items are not usually supplied at the venue.
Directions and arrival plan
Check the venue location and route in advance. Aim to arrive at least 30 minutes before the start. Confirm the opening time and late-entry cutoff with the provider; these policies vary.
Light snack and drink (if permitted)
Confirm whether food and drinks are allowed in the test room. If permitted, bring something quiet and easy to consume. Avoid noisy packaging.
Review of mark-sheet instructions
Practice filling in the mark sheet correctly: fill the bubble completely, use pencil, and erase mistakes cleanly. Confirm the answer format (e.g., whether amounts require commas or units) from the official sample.
Time-management plan
Know the number of questions and the time limit. Plan how long to spend on each section. Practice with a timer so you can allocate time for review.
Emergency contact and provider information
Save the provider's contact details and your registration number. If you are delayed or cannot attend, follow the provider's procedure. Confirm the policy for absences and refunds in advance.
Mental preparation and rest
Sleep well the night before. Avoid cramming new topics. Review your summary notes of journal entries, ledgers, trial balance, and financial statements. Stay calm and read each question carefully.
Plan the day
Review core topics: journalizing (仕訳), posting to ledgers (転記), trial balance (試算表), and financial statements (財務諸表). Practice with timed past papers or mock exams. Focus on weak areas such as adjusting entries (決算整理) and closing entries (締切). Confirm exam venue, time, and items to bring. Prepare your admission slip and ID. Avoid starting completely new topics.
Pack your bag: admission slip, ID, pencils, eraser, watch, calculator, mask, tissues, and any permitted snacks. Check the weather and transportation schedule. Set multiple alarms. Do a light review of key formulas and formats, but stop studying early enough to sleep well. Confirm the test room opening time and late-arrival policy with the provider if unsure.
Eat a normal breakfast. Arrive at the venue with time to spare (aim for 30 minutes early). Use the restroom before entering the room. Keep your admission slip and ID accessible. Listen carefully to the proctor's instructions. Fill in your name and registration number on the answer sheet exactly as instructed.
Read the instructions on the cover page. Allocate time according to your plan; do not spend too long on one question. Answer the questions you are confident about first. For mark-sheet questions, fill bubbles clearly and erase completely if you change an answer. Watch the clock and reserve the last few minutes to check that all questions are answered and your name is filled in. If you are unsure of a rule (e.g., calculator use, bathroom breaks), quietly ask the proctor.
Rules to check
Bring the admission slip and the photo ID specified by the provider. The name on the ID must match your registration. If you lack the required documents, you may be denied entry. Confirm accepted ID types with the provider.
Follow all instructions from the proctor. Do not start answering before the start signal or continue after the stop signal. Doing so may lead to disqualification.
Electronic devices such as smartphones, smartwatches, and tablets must be powered off and stored away as instructed. Do not keep them on your person or desk. Confirm the provider's policy on electronic devices.
Only use calculators and writing tools permitted by the provider. Do not share items with other candidates during the exam. If you need to borrow something, raise your hand and ask the proctor.
Bathroom breaks during the exam may be restricted. Confirm the policy with the provider. If permitted, you may be escorted and may not be given extra time.
Do not communicate with other candidates during the exam. Do not look at others' answer sheets or allow yours to be seen. Any form of cheating may result in disqualification and invalidation of your score.
Scoring is based on the mark sheet. Write clearly and fill bubbles completely. Answers written outside the designated areas may not be scored. Confirm the answer format (e.g., units, commas) from official instructions.
If you are late, entry may be refused after a certain time. Confirm the late-arrival cutoff with the provider. If you cannot attend, follow the provider's absence procedure; refunds are not guaranteed.