PSIRA Grade A exam-day guide
PSIRA Grade A · Prepare for the day ahead.
Your checklist
Photo identification
Bring the original identity document (typically a South African ID or passport) that matches your registration. Confirm with the provider which forms of ID are accepted and whether a certified copy is also required.
Admission or registration confirmation
Bring the confirmation of enrolment, booking, or admission letter the provider issued to you. Verify the exact document format with the provider.
Appointment or booking details
Have the date, time, venue, and any reference number with you, in print or on your phone. Confirm the venue address with the provider beforehand.
Exam fee / proof of payment
If any outstanding fee applies, carry proof of payment. Confirm with the provider whether payment must be settled before the day.
Pen and pencil
Bring a couple of blue or black pens and a pencil with an eraser for any answer sheet or rough work. Confirm with the provider whether stationery is supplied.
Travel and arrival plan
Plan to arrive well before the start time to allow for check-in and seating. Confirm the reporting time with the provider; do not assume a specific early-arrival window.
Know the test format
Confirm with the provider the format (written, multiple-choice, practical, oral), the number of questions, and the time allowed, so you can pace yourself.
Know the pass mark and scoring
Ask the provider in advance what the pass mark is and how results are communicated. Do not rely on second-hand figures.
Leave prohibited items at home
Phones, smart devices, notes, and study material are generally not allowed in the test room. Confirm the provider's specific rules on devices and storage.
Rest and logistics
Arrange transport, a meal, and adequate sleep. Confirm with the provider whether water or snacks are permitted in the room.
Review scope, not new material
Use the final days to revise the syllabus areas the provider lists, not to cram unfamiliar topics. Get the official scope from the provider.
Plan the day
Confirm the date, time, venue, and reporting time with the provider. Re-read the official syllabus or scope and list the topics you are least confident about. Gather your ID and admission documents in one place.
Do focused revision on weak areas using your own notes and the provider's materials. Practice pacing yourself on sample questions if the provider supplies any. Avoid starting brand-new topics.
Light revision only. Pack your bag: ID, admission confirmation, pens, pencil, and any permitted items. Confirm your transport and route. Get a full night's sleep and avoid last-minute cramming.
Eat a proper meal, leave early, and arrive with time to spare for check-in. Keep your documents ready for inspection. Stay calm and read instructions carefully before starting.
Listen to and follow the invigilator's instructions. Read each question fully, answer the easier questions first if allowed, and manage your time against the total allowed. Ask the invigilator only procedural questions, not content help.
Hand in all materials as instructed and leave the room quietly. Confirm with the provider how and when results will be released.
Rules to check
Carry your original identity document and present it on request; confirm with the provider which forms of ID are accepted.
Follow all instructions from the invigilator, including seating, timing, and when you may begin or stop writing.
Keep phones, smart devices, and unauthorised notes out of the test room; confirm with the provider where such items must be stored.
Do not communicate with other candidates during the test or attempt to copy or share answers.
Ask the invigilator only for procedural clarification; do not expect help with question content.
If you need to leave the room, raise your hand and follow the invigilator's direction; confirm the provider's policy on toilet breaks.
Manage your time against the total allowed and stop writing immediately when instructed.
Confirm the pass mark, scoring, and results process with the provider rather than relying on second-hand information.