AFP exam-day guide
AFP · Prepare for the day ahead.
Your checklist
Government-issued photo ID
Bring the exact form of identification the testing provider requires; name must match your registration. Confirm accepted ID types and name-matching rules with the provider in advance.
Confirmation of appointment and test-center location
Have your scheduling confirmation (email or printout) with the test-center address, arrival time, and any check-in instructions. Confirm whether a printed copy is required.
Approved calculator
Use only a calculator model the provider permits. Confirm the allowed models and whether an on-screen calculator is offered; do not assume a personal calculator is allowed.
Test-center locker/secure storage plan
Plan for personal items (phone, watch, bag, notes) to be stored away from the testing room. Confirm the center's storage policy and prohibited items list with the provider.
Comfort items for the wait
Water and a light snack for before/after the exam, subject to the center's rules on food and drink in the testing area.
Layer of clothing
Test rooms can be cool or warm; dress in layers so you can adjust without distraction.
Review the exam's format and section structure
Know the number of questions, time limits, and whether there are scheduled or optional breaks. Confirm the exact structure with the provider; do not rely on memory.
Confirm scoring and results timing
Know whether results are immediate or delayed and how they are reported. Confirm the specifics with the provider.
Sleep and logistics plan
Arrange travel time with a buffer, set two alarms, and prioritize a full night's sleep over last-minute cramming.
Accessibility or special-accommodation confirmation
If you requested accommodations, confirm approval and arrival instructions with the provider before exam day. needs_review
Emergency contact and provider phone number
Save the testing provider's contact number in case of delay, illness, or a scheduling problem. needs_review
A calm pre-exam routine
Decide in advance on a short, familiar warm-up (a few practice calculations or formula review) rather than new material.
Plan the day
Stop learning new topics. Review your own summary sheets, formula list, and a small set of missed-question notes. Take at most one light, timed practice set to check pacing, then stop. Confirm appointment details, ID requirements, calculator policy, and travel plan with the provider.
Verify the test-center address and arrival time, plan the route and backup route, and decide what you will bring versus leave at home. Confirm prohibited items and storage rules with the provider.
Do a short review of key formulas and your personal error list only. Prepare ID, confirmation, calculator, and clothing the night before. Eat a normal meal, avoid heavy caffeine late in the day, and go to bed at a reasonable hour.
Eat a normal breakfast, hydrate moderately, and arrive early with a buffer for traffic or check-in. Leave study materials at home or in storage. Do a brief, calm warm-up only if it settles you.
Follow the proctor's instructions for ID check and secure storage. Ask the proctor about break rules, calculator use, and how to flag a problem before the clock starts.
Read each question fully, watch your pace against the section clock, and flag and skip questions that stall you. Answer every question if there is no penalty for guessing (confirm the scoring rule with the provider). Use breaks as permitted to reset.
Reserve time to return to flagged questions and ensure no blanks remain where guessing is allowed. Submit deliberately and confirm the submission screen.
Rules to check
Bring the exact ID the provider requires; your name must match your registration. If your ID name differs from your registration, contact the provider before exam day. Confirm accepted ID types with the provider.
Follow all proctor instructions and the provider's candidate conduct rules. Prohibited items and behaviors are defined by the provider; confirm the list in advance and do not bring questionable items.
Personal items such as phones, smartwatches, and notes must be stored as the center directs and must not be accessed during the exam. Confirm the storage and access policy with the provider.
Breaks: confirm in advance whether breaks are scheduled, optional, or unscheduled, and whether the clock stops during breaks. Do not assume; ask the provider.
Scoring: confirm whether wrong answers are penalized and how the exam is scored before you decide on a guessing strategy. If unsure, ask the provider.
If you experience a technical problem, equipment issue, or distraction, raise your hand and notify the proctor immediately rather than trying to fix it yourself.
Arrive by the provider's stated check-in time. Late arrival policies vary; confirm the cutoff with the provider rather than assuming you will be admitted.
If you are ill or cannot attend, contact the provider as soon as possible to ask about rescheduling or cancellation policies. Confirm the terms with the provider.