STPM exam-day guide
STPM · Prepare for the day ahead.
Your checklist
Surat Pengenalan Diri / MyKad (identity document)
Bring the original identity document stated in your entry slip. Photocopies are usually not accepted. Confirm the exact document accepted with your school or the examination authority.
Entry slip / examination admission document
Print or obtain the slip showing your candidate number, subjects, and venues. Keep a spare copy in a separate bag.
Black or blue ballpoint pens (at least two)
Bring spare pens that you have already tested. Check the ink flows smoothly before exam day.
Pencils, sharpener, and eraser
For any objective or multiple-choice sections that require shading, plus rough work where permitted.
Non-programmable scientific calculator
Confirm with the provider which calculator models are permitted for your papers. Programmable or graphing models are commonly restricted, so check the current regulation rather than assuming.
Clear pencil case or pouch
Some venues require transparent cases. Confirm with the provider whether a plain pencil case is acceptable.
Wristwatch (non-smart)
Many halls have no visible clock. Smart watches and phones are usually prohibited at the desk.
Venue and seating details
Note the exact building, room, and reporting time from your entry slip. Visit the venue in advance if possible.
Approved stationery for specific papers
Check whether your subject papers require rulers, geometry sets, or other instruments, and confirm any permitted materials with the provider.
Water and a light snack for long days
Confirm with the provider whether drinks are allowed at the desk; some venues require them to be stored away.
Transport and backup plan
Plan arrival at least 30 to 45 minutes early and identify a backup route in case of delays.
Confirm prohibited items list
Ask the provider or your school for the current list of banned items such as phones, smart devices, notes, and correction fluid. Do not assume.
Plan the day
Review your entry slip and confirm every subject, date, time, and venue. Check the current calculator and stationery rules with the provider. Lay out all documents and stationery and replace anything worn out. Do light revision of summaries and past mistakes rather than starting new topics.
Do one timed practice section under exam conditions to rehearse pacing. Prepare clothing and transport details. Avoid late-night study; protect your sleep schedule.
Pack your bag completely: identity document, entry slip, pens, pencils, calculator, and any approved instruments. Confirm the alarm and travel plan. Eat a normal meal and sleep at your usual time.
Eat breakfast, arrive early, and locate your room and seat. Keep phones and smart devices switched off and stored as instructed. Read the front of the paper carefully, check the number of pages, and follow the invigilator's instructions.
Read all instructions and allocate time per section before writing. Answer the questions you know first, then return to harder ones. Show working where marks are awarded for method. Watch the clock and leave a few minutes to check that every required question is attempted and your candidate details are correct.
Do not spend time comparing answers with others. Move on and rest before the next paper.
Rules to check
Bring and display the identity document required by the examination authority; if you are unsure which document is accepted, confirm with the provider before exam day.
Follow the invigilator's instructions at all times, including seating, start and stop signals, and leaving the hall.
Keep phones, smart watches, and other electronic devices switched off and stored away as instructed; confirm the exact prohibited-item list with the provider.
Do not communicate with other candidates during the examination and do not bring unauthorized notes or materials to your desk.
Raise your hand and wait for an invigilator if you need to leave the hall, feel unwell, or need extra paper; do not leave without permission.
Write your candidate details accurately and answer the required number of questions; check the rubric on the paper because scoring often depends on attempting the correct combination of questions.
Use only the calculator and instruments permitted for your papers; confirm the current policy with the provider rather than relying on older information.
Be aware that misconduct can lead to disqualification for the paper or the whole examination; confirm the exact penalties with the provider.