PSIRA Grade E exam-day guide
PSIRA Grade E · Prepare for the day ahead.
Your checklist
Confirm exam date, time, and venue with your training provider
Dates, venues, and reporting times are set by the accredited provider and PSIRA scheduling. Reconfirm in the final week and again 24 hours before; do not rely on memory or a friend's schedule.
Bring your original identity document
A valid original ID (South African ID book/card or passport) is normally required to verify identity at the test. Bring the original, not a photocopy. Confirm with the provider which documents they accept.
Bring your provider-issued admission or registration proof
If the provider issues a registration letter, receipt, or admission slip, bring it. Confirm with the provider whether it is required.
Bring a black or blue pen and a pencil
Bring at least two pens and a pencil with an eraser in case answer sheets require pencil. Do not assume the venue supplies stationery.
Bring your training manual and notes for last-minute review
Useful for the waiting period before the test starts, but follow venue rules on what may be taken to your desk. Confirm with the invigilator where personal items must be stored.
Know the route and travel time to the venue
Plan to arrive early with a buffer for traffic or transport delays. Being late may affect admission; confirm the provider's late-arrival rule.
Arrange transport and a backup plan
Have a second way to reach the venue in case of breakdowns or strikes. Share your plan with someone who can help if needed.
Get a full night's sleep and eat before you leave
Avoid last-minute cramming into the early hours. Eat a normal meal so you can concentrate through the whole test.
Leave phones, smartwatches, and other devices at home or switched off and stored
Electronic devices are typically not allowed at your desk. Confirm the provider's device policy and where to store them.
Know the test format and time allowed
Ask your provider in advance how many questions, what question types, and how long you have. This shapes how you pace yourself.
Bring water and any permitted medication
Check with the provider what is allowed at your desk. If you need medication or an accommodation, raise it with the provider before test day.
Plan the day
Reconfirm date, time, and venue with the provider. Re-read your manual and notes, focusing on weak areas. Do practice questions under timed conditions. Prepare your ID and documents in one place. Stop heavy studying the night before and sleep properly.
Pack your bag: original ID, admission proof, pens, pencil, eraser, water. Check the route and transport. Confirm your alarm and a backup wake-up. Do a light review of key points only, then rest.
Eat breakfast, dress appropriately, and leave with a time buffer. Arrive early, check in as instructed, and store devices and bags where told. Use waiting time for calm, light review, not new material.
Read the instructions and check the total marks and time. Answer the questions you know first, then return to harder ones. Read each question carefully for words like 'not' or 'except'. Keep an eye on the clock, leave time to check your answers, and hand in as instructed.
Rules to check
Follow all instructions from the invigilator and provider staff. If you are unsure about a procedure, ask before the test starts rather than guessing.
Carry and present your original identity document as required. If you lack it, speak to the provider immediately; do not assume you will be admitted.
Keep to the provider's rules on phones, smartwatches, notes, and bags. Devices should be off and stored away from your desk unless the provider says otherwise. Confirm the exact policy with the provider.
Do not talk, share answers, or look at another candidate's work during the test. Suspected dishonesty can lead to disqualification; confirm the provider's disciplinary process.
Stay in your seat and raise your hand if you need the invigilator. Ask about toilet breaks and leaving the room before the test begins, and follow the provider's rules.
Manage your own time within the allowed period. Confirm with the provider whether extra time is given for late starts or for any accommodation you may need.
Write clearly and follow the answer-sheet instructions. Ask the invigilator if an instruction is unclear before you begin answering.
Confirm the pass mark, results date, and how results are issued with your provider. Do not rely on second-hand information about scoring.