PRINCE2 7 Foundation exam-day guide
PRINCE2 7 Foundation · Prepare for the day ahead.
Your checklist
Valid government-issued photo ID
Bring the original ID you booked with; the name must match your registration exactly. Accepted document types vary by location and delivery method - confirm the list with the provider before exam day (needs_review).
Booking confirmation and login details
Have your candidate/registration number and the username and password for your exam-institute account to hand; you may need them at check-in. Write them on paper only if the provider permits it, otherwise memorise them.
Reliable internet connection with a backup plan
For an online-proctored sitting, run the provider's system/equipment test in advance. Have a phone hotspot or a second network available as a fallback, and know the provider's support number in case of a technical failure.
Webcam, microphone and speakers/headset that work
Test all three before the exam. Headset and earphone rules differ between providers and sittings - confirm whether they are permitted at your sitting (needs_review).
Private, quiet, well-lit room with a clear desk
The proctor must be able to see you, your hands and the desk surface. Remove papers, books, sticky notes, second screens and any wall charts - this is a closed-book exam.
Computer that meets the provider's system requirements
Close all other applications, disable notifications and pop-ups, and stop any syncing or backup software before you launch the exam. Check whether a second monitor must be disconnected.
Mains power or a fully charged device
Plug in the laptop or ensure the battery comfortably exceeds the exam duration so a power loss cannot end your sitting.
Knowledge of the exam format
60 multiple-choice questions in 60 minutes, closed book, one mark per question, pass mark 55% (33 of 60). Knowing this lets you pace at roughly one minute per question.
Completed at least one timed mock under exam conditions
Do this in the final days so that timing, question style and the 'best answer' phrasing feel familiar rather than new on the day.
Read the provider's candidate handbook / exam instructions
It contains the current rules on ID, room conditions, permitted items, technical failure procedure and results. Rules change, so read the version issued with your booking rather than relying on second-hand advice.
Arrive/log in early
Plan to be ready well before the start time to allow for identity checks and room scans. Confirm the exact check-in window with the provider (needs_review).
Water in a clear container (only if permitted)
Some providers allow a clear glass or bottle, others do not. Confirm the rule for your sitting; if in doubt, do without (needs_review).
Plan the day
Confirm the date, start time and time zone of your sitting, and check that your ID is valid and unexpired. Run the provider's system test on the exact machine and network you will use. Read the candidate handbook once more. Sit one full timed mock, then spend remaining time on weak areas - typically the purpose of each principle, the theme-to-process mapping, and the management products and role responsibilities.
Prioritise understanding 'which role does this' and 'which process does this happen in' style questions, plus the business case, product-based planning and the tailoring concept. Do not start new topics in the last 24 hours.
Do light revision only: one summary sheet of definitions and the seven principles. Prepare the room and desk, charge and test equipment, lay out your ID, and note the support phone number. Check traffic or travel plans if attending a test centre. Eat properly, set two alarms, and get a full night's sleep - recall matters more than one extra hour of cramming.
Eat and hydrate. Clear the desk again, switch off and put away your phone and any smartwatch, close all applications, and shut the door to the room. Log in early with your ID ready, complete the identity check and room scan calmly, and keep a single sheet of notes nearby only if you will use it before check-in - nothing may be used once the exam has begun.
Work at about one minute per question. Read the whole stem before the options, identify what is being asked (BEST, FIRST, TRUE, which role, which process), and eliminate clearly wrong options. Answer every question as you go; there is no negative marking for a wrong answer, but a blank scores zero.
If a question takes much longer than a minute, flag it and move on. Use the review screen at the end to return to flagged items with fresh eyes. Keep an eye on the clock at the halfway point - you should be around question 30.
Use the last five to ten minutes to confirm no question is unanswered and to revisit flagged items. Change an answer only when you have a clear reason; first instincts on well-revised material are often right. Submit and note any provisional result shown on screen.
Rules to check
This is a closed-book exam: no notes, textbooks, printed aids, phone apps or reference material of any kind may be used during the sitting.
Present valid photo ID whose name matches your booking. Accepted ID types vary - confirm the list with the provider in advance and bring the original, not a photocopy.
No one else may be in the room and you must not communicate with anyone during the exam. In an online-proctored sitting, stay within camera view and do not leave the desk without the proctor's permission.
Mobile phones, smartwatches and other devices must be switched off and out of reach for the duration, even if you are not using them.
There is normally no scheduled break in a 60-minute exam, and the clock does not stop. Confirm the break policy with your provider if you have any concern.
Every question carries one mark and there is no negative marking, so answer all 60 questions - a blank and a wrong answer score the same only if you leave it blank, so always guess if necessary.
The pass mark is 55% (33 of 60 correct). Results are usually displayed or issued provisionally after submission, with the formal record available through the provider's candidate account.
If you need extra time or another reasonable adjustment (for example, because the exam is not in your first language), request it from the provider well before the exam date; eligibility and permitted allowances are set by the provider - confirm the current policy with them.