OSWA exam-day guide
OSWA · Prepare for the day ahead.
Your checklist
Government-issued photo ID
Bring the same ID you used during registration. The name must match your registration exactly. If you have any doubt about which ID is accepted, confirm with the provider before exam day.
Exam appointment confirmation
Have your booking confirmation, candidate number, and any onboarding instructions accessible. Keep a digital and printed copy in case one fails.
Reliable computer and stable internet connection
Use a wired or strong Wi-Fi connection, close bandwidth-heavy applications, and disable notifications. Test your camera and microphone ahead of time if the provider uses live proctoring.
Charged backup power and peripherals
Charge your laptop, have a charger plugged in, and test your mouse and keyboard. A second internet option (mobile hotspot) is useful if the primary connection drops.
Clean, quiet, well-lit workspace
Clear your desk of notes, phones, and unauthorized materials. Ensure lighting is even and your face is visible. Remove or cover any secondary screens if the provider forbids them.
Allowed reference materials (if any)
Check the provider's rules on notes, documentation, or open-book resources. If unsure what is permitted, confirm with the provider. Do not assume any material is allowed.
Water and a light snack for breaks
Keep these off your desk unless the provider allows them. Plan to use scheduled breaks only; confirm break rules with the provider.
Pen and paper for scratch notes (if allowed)
Some providers allow blank paper and a pen; others prohibit all writing materials. Confirm with the provider and follow the proctor's instructions exactly.
Review the exam interface and submission process
Know how to navigate between questions, flag items, and submit. If a practice or tutorial environment is offered, use it before exam day.
Plan your timing and question strategy
Decide in advance how long to spend per question, when to skip and return, and how to handle practical tasks that require manual testing or tool use.
Provider support contact
Save the phone number or chat link for technical support. If you hit a connection or proctoring issue, contact support immediately and follow their instructions.
Confirm exam policies with the provider
Before the exam, verify ID requirements, allowed materials, break policy, retake rules, and scoring details directly with the provider. Policies vary and may change.
Plan the day
Shift from learning new topics to consolidating. Review your weak areas using hands-on practice, re-read your own notes, and do timed practice sets. Verify that your exam booking, ID, and technical setup are in order. Confirm any policy questions with the provider now, not on exam day. Protect your sleep.
Do a light review only: key concepts, common pitfalls, and your personal checklist. Prepare your workspace and test your equipment (camera, microphone, browser, internet). Charge devices and locate your ID and confirmation. Avoid cramming new material. Get a full night's sleep if possible.
Eat a normal meal and hydrate. Log in early to complete any check-in or proctoring steps. Close unnecessary applications and silence notifications. Have your ID and support contact within reach. Re-read the provider's instructions for starting the exam and any allowed materials.
Read each question carefully and watch for qualifiers. For practical tasks, work methodically and verify your results. Manage your time: don't get stuck on one item; flag and return if the interface allows. If a technical problem occurs, pause and contact support immediately. Follow all proctor instructions, and use breaks only as permitted.
Rules to check
Bring the exact government-issued photo ID required by the provider; the name must match your registration. If you are unsure which forms of ID are accepted, confirm with the provider before exam day.
Do not use unauthorized materials, tools, notes, or assistance. Only use what the provider explicitly permits; if in doubt, ask the provider in advance.
Keep your workspace clear and remain visible to the proctor if live proctoring is used. Avoid leaving the camera view except during approved breaks.
Follow the provider's break policy. Unscheduled breaks may not be allowed, and the clock may or may not stop; confirm the exact rules with the provider.
Report any technical issue immediately to provider support and follow their instructions. Do not attempt to troubleshoot by yourself in a way that could violate exam rules.
Scoring and passing standards are set by the provider. Do not assume a particular pass mark or partial-credit policy; confirm scoring details with the provider.
Retake and rescheduling policies vary. Check the provider's terms before your appointment so you understand your options if something goes wrong.
Maintain academic integrity. Sharing, recording, or reproducing exam content is prohibited and may result in score cancellation or other consequences.