PSIRA Grade C exam-day guide
PSIRA Grade C · Prepare for the day ahead.
Your checklist
Valid photo identification
Bring the original ID document (typically a South African ID book/card or passport) in the name you registered under. Confirm with the provider which forms of ID they accept and whether a certified copy is needed.
Admission letter / registration confirmation
Print or save the confirmation showing your booking, date, time and venue. Confirm with the provider whether a printed copy is required.
Proof of payment or receipt
Keep evidence that your exam fee is paid in case there is a query at registration. Confirm with the provider what proof they require.
Venue address and travel plan
Confirm the exact venue, entrance and arrival time with the provider, and plan to arrive with buffer time for traffic, parking and security checks.
Writing materials
Bring black or blue pens and a pencil. Confirm with the provider what is allowed, since some centres supply materials or restrict what you may bring to your desk.
Permitted calculator or reference materials
If the exam involves calculations, confirm with the provider whether a calculator or any reference material is permitted and what type.
Watch or time awareness
A simple watch helps you pace yourself. Confirm with the provider whether phones must be switched off and stored away during the test.
Water and a light snack
Bring water and something small to eat for before or after the session. Confirm with the provider whether food and drink are allowed in the exam room.
Leave prohibited items at home or in storage
Phones, smart devices and notes are generally not allowed at your desk. Confirm with the provider where these must be stored and what is prohibited.
Rest, meals and medication
Get normal sleep, eat properly and take any prescribed medication as usual. If you have a medical or access need, confirm accommodations with the provider in advance.
Review logistics the day before
Re-confirm time, venue, ID requirements and any last instructions with the provider so there are no surprises on the day.
Know the format and scoring
Confirm with the provider the number and type of questions, time allowed, pass mark and whether there is negative marking, so you can plan your pacing.
Plan the day
Do focused revision of the main syllabus areas and your weakest topics. Re-read the provider's exam instructions and confirm venue, time and ID requirements. Avoid starting brand-new material; consolidate what you already know.
Do one or two timed practice runs under exam conditions if practice material is available. Review errors and note the topics to revisit. Confirm with the provider whether any official sample questions exist.
Light revision only: skim summaries and key points. Pack your bag with ID, admission confirmation, pens and any permitted items. Set out clothes and travel plan, check transport and weather, and get a full night's sleep.
Eat a proper breakfast, arrive at the venue early per the provider's instruction, and re-check you have your ID and confirmation. Avoid last-minute cramming that raises anxiety; a brief calm review of key points is enough.
Present your ID and confirmation, follow staff instructions, store prohibited items as directed, and locate your seat and washroom before the test begins.
Read the instructions and check the time allowed. Work through questions at a steady pace, answer the easier ones first if you get stuck, and mark uncertain answers to revisit. Watch the clock and leave time to check your answers and ensure every question is answered if there is no penalty for guessing.
Stop writing when instructed, hand in all materials as directed, and confirm with the provider how and when results will be released.
Rules to check
Follow all instructions from invigilators and venue staff; their directions on seating, timing and materials take precedence.
Bring and present the required original photo ID; you may be refused entry without it. Confirm with the provider exactly which documents are accepted.
Keep only permitted items at your desk. Phones and smart devices must be switched off and stored as directed; confirm with the provider what is prohibited.
Do not communicate with other candidates during the test and do not look at others' work; raise your hand and ask an invigilator if you have a question.
If you need to leave the room (for example, for a washroom break), raise your hand and follow the invigilator's instructions. Confirm with the provider the rules on breaks and whether you are escorted or timed.
Do not attempt to bring in, copy or share exam content. Confirm with the provider the consequences of misconduct, which may include disqualification.
If you have a disability, medical condition or other access need, request accommodations from the provider well before the exam date rather than on the day.
Understand the scoring before you start: confirm with the provider the pass mark, question format, time allowed and whether unanswered or incorrect answers are penalised, and plan your pacing accordingly.