NY Regents Physics exam-day guide
NY Regents Physics · Prepare for the day ahead.
Your checklist
Admission ticket / exam schedule
Bring your admission ticket or exam schedule if provided by your school. Confirm with your school counselor or the exam provider what documentation is required for entry.
Photo ID
Bring a current school ID or government-issued photo ID. Confirm with the exam provider whether ID is required and what forms are accepted.
Two or more No. 2 pencils
Pack at least two sharpened No. 2 pencils with erasers for the multiple-choice section.
Blue or black pens
Bring two blue or black ballpoint pens for writing constructed responses and free-response answers. Confirm with the exam provider which ink color is preferred.
Scientific calculator
Bring a scientific calculator with fresh batteries. Confirm with the exam provider which calculator models are permitted and whether graphing calculators are allowed.
Straightedge (ruler)
A clear plastic ruler is useful for drawing ray diagrams and graphs. Confirm with the exam provider whether any drawing tools are prohibited.
Reference table
The NY Regents Physics exam provides a reference table. Confirm with the exam provider whether you may bring your own copy or must use the provided one.
Watch (non-smart)
A simple analog or digital watch helps you pace yourself. Smartwatches and phones are typically not allowed in the testing room; confirm with the exam provider.
Clear water bottle and snack
Stay hydrated and bring a light snack for after the exam. Confirm with the exam provider whether food and drink are allowed at your desk.
Review formula sheet and units
In the days before the exam, review the reference table formulas, metric prefixes, and SI units. Do not rely on memorizing the table.
Practice with a timer
Complete at least one full-length practice test under timed conditions to build pacing skills. Use official past exams if available from your teacher.
Know your test location and start time
Confirm the exact building, room, and reporting time with your school. Plan to arrive early to allow for check-in.
Plan the day
Review your weakest topics using your class notes and the reference table. Complete one timed practice section (e.g., multiple choice) and review every mistake. Get at least 7–8 hours of sleep each night. Avoid cramming new material.
Do a light review of key formulas and units. Pack your bag with pencils, pens, calculator, ruler, ID, admission ticket, watch, water, and snack. Confirm the exam location and start time. Set two alarms. Go to bed early.
Eat a balanced breakfast. Arrive at the test center at least 15–20 minutes early. Leave your phone and smartwatch at home or in your locker as directed. Use the restroom before entering the testing room. Take a few deep breaths to settle nerves.
Read all directions carefully. Budget your time: for multiple choice, aim for about 1–1.5 minutes per question; leave enough time for free-response. Show all work and include units in answers. If stuck, mark the question and move on. Use the reference table. Check your work if time permits.
Rules to check
Bring only approved items into the testing room. Phones, smartwatches, and other electronic devices must be turned off and stored away as directed; confirm with the exam provider what is allowed.
Follow all instructions from the proctor. Do not start until told to begin and stop writing immediately when time is called.
Present valid photo ID if requested. Confirm with the exam provider in advance what ID is acceptable.
Breaks are typically not permitted during the exam; use the restroom before testing. Confirm with the exam provider whether any scheduled breaks exist.
Calculators may be used only if permitted by the exam provider. Confirm which models are allowed and whether programs must be cleared.
Scoring is based on the number of points earned; there is no penalty for guessing on multiple-choice questions. Answer every question.
Maintain academic integrity. Do not communicate with other test-takers during the exam, and do not share or copy answers.
If you must leave the testing room for an emergency, follow the proctor's instructions. Confirm with the exam provider how such situations are handled.