Overview
Institutions and examination boards set clear rules about what candidates may bring into an examination room. These rules protect the integrity of the assessment while ensuring that students have reasonable access to resources they need to demonstrate their knowledge.
Even within a single institution, policies can differ between subject areas, exam formats (e.g., multiplechoice, essay, practical), and the level of study (high school, undergraduate, professional certification). Understanding the general categories of permitted and prohibited materials helps students avoid inadvertent violations.
Allowed Items
Most exam regulations list a handful of items that are explicitly permitted. Below is a typical set of allowed materials:
- Writing Instruments: Pens (blue or black ink), mechanical pencils, erasers, and a single ruler (usually without a metal tip).
- Basic Calculators: Nonprogrammable calculators without wireless capability, often limited to basic arithmetic functions. Some mathematics courses allow scientific calculators, but programmable or graphing calculators are generally prohibited unless specifically approved.
- Reference Sheets: A single cheat sheet or reference card prepared according to the exam boards guidelines (size, font, number of pages). For openbook exams, entire textbooks or lecture notes may be allowed.
- ID and Administrative Items: Photo identification, exam admission ticket, and any required healthrelated items (e.g., inhaler, glucose monitor) that have been approved in advance.
- Approved Electronic Devices: Some institutions permit a basic, nonnetworked tablet or laptop for specific exams (e.g., programming tests). These devices must be cleared by the invigilator before the exam starts.
- Personal Comfort Items: Small water bottle (often clear and without labeling) and, where allowed, a plain, nonmetallic watch.
Typical Permitted Tables
| Item | Condition | Common Exceptions |
|---|---|---|
| Pen / Pencil | Blue/black ink, no highlighter | None |
| Calculator | Nonprogrammable, no wireless | Graphing calculators only with permission |
| Reference Sheet | One A4, front & back, handwritten | Typed sheets rarely allowed |
| Laptop / Tablet | Airplane mode, no internet | Only for designated digital exams |
Prohibited Items
Items that could be used to gain an unfair advantage are typically banned. The following list covers the most common prohibited materials:
- Smartphones, smartwatches, and any device with Bluetooth, WiFi, or cellular capability.
- Programmable or graphing calculators unless preapproved.
- Printed notes, textbooks, or any material not expressly permitted for the specific exam.
- Electronic storage devices (USB drives, external hard drives, SD cards).
- Audio recording devices, cameras, and any equipment capable of transmitting information.
- Items concealed in clothing (e.g., pocket calculators, cheat sheets).
- Any medication or supplement not declared to the invigilator in advance.
Violations can result in immediate removal from the examination room, a score of zero, or more severe academic penalties.
Special Cases
Medical & Accessibility Accommodations
Students with documented disabilities may be granted additional permissions, such as:
- Use of a magnifying glass or a largeprint version of an exam.
- Permission to bring a personal laptop with accessibility software.
- Extended time and the ability to use a scribe.
These accommodations must be approved through the institutions disability services office and documented on the exam seating plan.
OpenBook Exams
In openbook or takehome assessments, the focus shifts from recall to analysis. Allowed materials may include:
- Any textbook, lecture slides, or class notes.
- Internet access (if the instructor permits).
- Software tools relevant to the subject (e.g., statistical packages, coding IDEs).
Even with broader allowances, students must still observe guidelines about collaboration and plagiarism.
Best Practices for Students
- Read the policy early: Exam instructions are usually posted weeks in advance. Highlight any items you are unsure about.
- Ask for clarification: If a rule is ambiguous, contact the course instructor or exam office before the exam day.
- Prepare a checklist: List every item you plan to bring and tick them off at the venue.
- Pack transparently: Use a clear bag or a transparent pouch so invigilators can quickly verify contents.
- Label personal items: Write your name on pens, calculators, and any allowed device to prevent mixups.
- Arrive early: This gives you time to store prohibited items in the designated area and settle any lastminute concerns.
- Follow invigilator instructions: If asked to turn on airplane mode or place a device in a collection tray, comply promptly.
- Know the consequences: Understanding the academic penalties for breaches can motivate careful compliance.
