Getting through exam day
On the morning of your exam, you wake up knowing that you’ve done all you can to study. But wait, you realise that you don’t know the location of the exam and if you can use your favourite pen. Don’t worry, here’s the details you need to know to arrive at the exam on time, what you’ll need during the exam, and what to do afterward.
What to take into an exam
Don’t forget to bring your physical student ID card or another valid photos ID (no digital IDs, sorry!). If you don’t have a card, visit the Ask Adelaide webpage and find out how to get one. In some cases, a driver’s license or passport will work as ID. You can also bring a small purse or wallet with your essentials like keys, money ID, and credit cards.
Pens, pencils, and depending on the exam, a ruler can be used. If you have a pencil case, make sure it has a see-through cover. Certain types of calculators are allowed, so be sure to check MyUni for a list of approved calculators. Oh, and make sure your calculator has plenty of battery charge.
You can bring one clear plastic bottle of water (up to 1 litre) with you, but there will also be water available at the exam venue. You can keep a closed bag under your seat, but just a heads up, the University won’t be responsible for any loss or damage to your items. And don’t forget materials specified by your course coordinator.
Pro tip: Smartwatches and phones aren't allowed in the exam venue—so filming definitely isn't either.
How will I know if my exam is open book?
Don’t forget to check your course guide to see if you have an open-book exam. In closed-book exams, you’ll need to rely on memory and recall, while open-book exams let you bring textbooks, journal articles, and notes with you.
How to get to your exam (with time to spare!)
When it’s time to head to your exam venue, make sure you plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before it starts. This gives you time to find a carpark or allow for short delays with public transport, locate the exam building, and find your seat. And remember, you won’t be allowed in once 30 minutes have passed from the scheduled start time.
Parking at the Adelaide Showground
If you’re driving to the Adelaide Showground exam venue, parking is available for a flat rate of $15 (card payment only). Tap your card on the scanner at the boom gate when you arrive and when you leave. Carpark 2 is where you want to go, accessible via Rose Terrace in the suburb of Wayville. Look at this map of the Showgrounds to see where car park 2 and the exam building (in purple) is located.
Who can help you
If you need help before the exam, there’s the Youx Exam Rescue Station for last-minute exam-related stationery and calculator and ruler hire at the Adelaide Showground in the Goyder Pavilion. Youx will also be at the Callaghan Building and Information Centre at the Roseworthy Campus. During the exam, there will be invigilators walking around to supervise and assist students. Just raise your hand if you need help.
What to do when you finish the exam
During the last 10 minutes of the exam, no one can leave. But if you finish before that, quietly notify an invigilator by raising your hand. And remember to be quiet and considerate to your fellow students. This means not talking or turning your mobile phone on until your are outside of the building, as there may be students taking a longer exam. Once your papers have been collected, quietly pack up your belongings – don’t forget your ID on the desk and remain seated until it’s been announced you can leave.
When results are available
Bookmark the Grades Release Dates webpage to keep track of when your results will be available online. Good luck!
UoA Resources:
- Exams - Examinations. Includes information about timetable release dates, examination venues, exam clashes, materials permitted and not permitted in an exam, and Alternative Exam Arrangements.
- Exams – Frequently Asked Questions
- Assessment and Exam Information (YouX)
- Alternative Exam Arrangements
- Exam Wellbeing. Get tips about how to manage stress in the lead-up to exams.
This article was originally published in Student News on 30 May 2024 and updated on 10 June 2025.