MATSEC IM German exam-day guide
MATSEC IM German · Prepare for the day ahead.
Your checklist
Valid photo ID (ID card or passport)
Bring the original document, not a photocopy. Check name spelling matches your entry. If you are unsure which ID is accepted, confirm with the provider before the exam day. (needs_review)
Examination admission slip or candidate number
If the provider issues an admission slip or candidate number, print it or save it offline. Confirm with the provider whether a printed copy is required. (needs_review)
Black or blue ballpoint pens (at least two)
Write legibly; bring spares. Do not rely on pencil for final answers unless the paper's instructions explicitly allow it.
Pencil, eraser and sharpener
Useful for planning, underlining and any multiple-choice answer sheet. Confirm whether the paper uses a separate answer sheet and which writing instrument it requires. (needs_review)
Clear pencil case or transparent pouch
Many centres require see-through storage. If you are unsure, confirm with the provider or simply bring pens loose in a clear bag. (needs_review)
Wristwatch (non-smart, silent)
A simple analogue or digital watch helps you pace yourself if the room clock is hard to see. Smartwatches and phones must be switched off and stored away.
Water in a clear, label-free bottle
Stay hydrated, especially for a long reading and writing paper. Confirm the centre's rules on drinks. (needs_review)
Confirm exam venue, date and start time
Check the official timetable and your entry details the day before. Plan to arrive well before the start; late arrival rules vary, so confirm with the provider. (needs_review)
Know the paper structure and timing
Review the number and weighting of sections (for example reading, writing, language use) and the recommended time per section so you can allocate it on the day.
Leave phone and smart devices at home or switched off
Possession of a phone, smartwatch or notes in the exam room can lead to disqualification even if unused. Store them as instructed.
Plan your journey and a backup
Check transport, traffic and parking. Aim to be at the venue early; bring a contact number for the centre in case of delay.
Prepare for the listening component if applicable
Confirm whether your paper includes a listening section and whether audio equipment is provided. If you are unsure, confirm with the provider. (needs_review)
Plan the day
Switch from learning new material to consolidating. Re-read your summary notes on grammar, vocabulary and text types. Do one timed past-paper or sample task under exam conditions, then mark it and list your three biggest weaknesses. Practise writing a short formal and informal text by hand to check speed and legibility. Confirm the exact venue, start time and what is allowed in the room with the provider if anything is unclear.
Pack your bag: ID, admission slip if required, pens, pencil, eraser, clear pouch, watch, water. Check your travel route and set two alarms. Do a light review of formulas for structures (for example verb-second word order in main clauses, subordinate clause word order) and useful connectives, but stop early. Eat a normal meal, avoid heavy cramming, and get a full night's sleep.
Eat a proper breakfast and arrive at the venue with time to spare. Keep your phone switched off and stored before entering the building. Go to the toilet before the exam starts. Once seated, read the front of the paper carefully: check the time allowed, the number of questions, and any instructions about answer language or choice. Take a few slow breaths and set your pace.
Read the whole paper briefly and note the marks for each section. Allocate time proportionally, leaving a few minutes at the end to check. Answer the questions you find easiest first to build confidence, but make sure you attempt every required question. For writing tasks, spend a minute planning structure and key phrases. For reading tasks, underline evidence in the text and match it to the question. Watch the clock at the halfway point and adjust. If you run out of time, write brief notes or bullet points rather than leaving a blank. Check spelling, verb endings, word order and punctuation in the final minutes.
Rules to check
Bring the original photo ID required by the provider and place it on your desk if instructed. If you are unsure which documents are accepted, confirm with the provider before the exam day.
Arrive at the venue by the stated reporting time. Late arrival may be refused entry; the exact cut-off is set by the provider, so confirm it in advance.
Switch off phones, smartwatches and any other electronic devices and store them away from your desk. Unauthorised materials, including notes or written aids, must not be brought into the exam room.
Follow the invigilator's instructions at all times. Do not start writing before you are told and stop immediately when told to stop. Do not communicate with other candidates during the exam.
If you need to leave the room (for example for the toilet), raise your hand and wait for permission. Rules on supervised breaks vary by centre; confirm with the provider if you have a medical need.
Write in the language and script required by the paper and answer the number of questions specified. If a choice of questions is offered, do not answer more than required; extra answers may not be marked.
Do not remove exam materials from the room. All rough work should be handed in or left as instructed.
Scoring and grade boundaries are set by the awarding body. Do not assume that a certain raw mark guarantees a grade; check the official specification or confirm with the provider for details of weighting and assessment objectives.