A student needs to remember about the exam essentials and what they should take and what they should avoid on the exam day.
In this blog, you will explore exam essentials, what you must carry and what are the prohibited items on an exam or a test day.
Also check out: ‘Which exam you should be studying for in 2026’
Exam Essentials: What you should carry
Following is the list of items that you shouldn’t forget to take for your exam:
| Essential Item | Purpose / Note |
|---|---|
| Admit Card | It is your entry pass and should be properly printed |
| Valid Photo ID | Aadhar Card, Passport, Voter ID, or Driving License. |
| Photograph | A recent passport-size photo. |
| Stationery | Pens, pencils, erasers, and geometry tools (if allowed). |
| Water Bottle | It should be transparent and label free. |
| Mask & Sanitizer | For hygiene and safety (if needed) |
What not to carry to an exam?
Following is a list of prohibited items. If you carry them, it can lead to loss of marks or even disqualification.
| Prohibited Item | Reason |
|---|---|
| Mobile Phones / Smartwatches | Prevent cheating and digital assistance. |
| Electronic Gadgets | No digital help is allowed. |
| Bags & Wallets | Avoid unnecessary belongings |
| Notes, Books, or Chits | Considered unfair means and can lead to disqualification. |
| Food or Drinks (except water) | Unless medically required or allowed. |
| Jewelry or Metal Items | May trigger security alarms during frisking. |
Exam timing and Test Rules
Following are certain important exam rules that you should follow:
1. Reach at your allotted venue before the gate closes.
2. Bring only those things that are allowed
3. Follow your seating arrangement.
4. Maintain silence in the examination hall
5. Do not talk or exchange materials with other students.
6. Return your question paper and answer sheet as instructed to you.
7. Exit is allowed once the exam is done
Also if you are preparing for competitive exams then you can check out ‘How to crack IELTS’, ‘CTET exam 2026’ ‘TANCET exam 2026’
Important Documents Checklist
1. Printed Admit Card or hall ticket
2. Photo Id Proof like Aadhar card or PAN card, etc.
3. Photograph
4. PwD certificate (if applicable)
5. Stationery
How to manage Exam Stress and stay calm and focused?
Following are some exam tips for managing exam stress and stay focused:
| Tip | Why It Helps |
|---|---|
| Sleep Well | By sleeping better you can can be more fresh and focused |
| Eat Healthy Food | Healthy and light food helps you more and avoid sluggishness |
| Stay Hydrated | Staying hydrated can boost your memory |
| Positive Affirmations | It can boost your confidence and calm your thoughts. |
| Deep Breathing Exercises | It reduces anxiety during exam |
Exam Preparation Tips
It is important to prepare smartly for your exams. Here are a few tips on how you can do it:
| Strategy | Impact |
|---|---|
| Revise Key Topics Only | Strengthen core concepts before the test. |
| Take a Mock Test | Get a feel for the real exam environment. |
| Pack Your Bag a Night Before | Avoid last-minute rush. |
| Sleep Early | Wake up fresh. |
| Review Exam Instructions | Know the marking scheme and rules. |
What can you do at the exam centre?
1. Show hall ticket and photo at the gate
2. Go through frisking and biometric verification (if applicable)
3. Find your seat number after finding your exam hall.
4. Listen to the exam instructions
5. Fill your details on the answer sheet.
What to do after the exam?
1. Stay seated until the invigilator collects your answer sheet
2. Don’t discuss the exam answers loudly in the hall.
3. Exit the hall calmly.
4. Check the official website for the answer key and result date.
Check out ‘How to Interpret Your Exam Results and Plan Your Future Goals’
Overview of Do’s and Don’ts on Exam Day
| Do’s | Don’ts |
|---|---|
| Carry your admit card and photo ID | Don’t forget important documents |
| Reach at least an hour early | Don’t arrive late or panic |
| Follow all exam instructions | Don’t argue with invigilators |
| Keep calm and use time management | Don’t waste time on tough questions |
| Read the paper thoroughly | Don’t start writing before allowed |
FAQ’s
1. Which are the important documents to carry on an exam day?
Ans: Important documents like admit card, photo ID proof, photograph are necessary to carry to an exam hall.
2. Which are the exam essentials?
Ans: The exam essentials include important documents, stationery, water bottle, etc.
3. Can I carry my mobile phone to the exam centre?
Ans: No. Mobile phones, smartphones and electronic gadgets are strictly prohibited in the exam hall.
4. How can I deal with exam stress?
Ans: You can do deep breathing, positive self-talk, and stay organized with your exam essentials.
5. When should I reach the exam centre?
Ans: You can reach at least an hour before so that you don’t have to rush.
6. Can I leave the exam hall early after completing my exam?
Ans: Usually no. At many exam centers, you have to stay seated until the end.