Your ISTQB exam day checklist

Confirm your exam day instructions

Use the provider’s current instructions and appointment email as your checklist. Recheck the exam name, version, language, date and time zone. Save the support contact somewhere you can reach if you cannot sign in.

A colleague’s exam procedure may not match your provider or platform, even in the same country.

Check your ID and account name early

Confirm which ID your provider accepts, whether it must be current, and how the name must match your booking. Fix any mismatch before the appointment, because a proctor usually cannot correct it on the day.

• Compare the booking name with the ID you will present.
• Check the provider’s requirements for photographs, signatures and additional ID.
• If you changed your name, ask what supporting evidence is accepted.
• Keep certificate numbers and identity documents out of public comments or correction reports.

Prepare for your delivery method

For a remote exam

• Run the required system test on the intended computer and network.
• Check camera, microphone, browser and any secure exam software requirements.
• Prepare the room, desk and permitted equipment using the provider’s instructions.
• Ask about restrictions on work computers, additional monitors, headphones and other devices.
• Know the check-in process and how to contact support if the platform fails.

For a test center

• Confirm the center address and arrival time.
• Allow for travel and check-in rather than arriving at the exam start time.
• Read the instructions for belongings and permitted materials.
• Check accessibility arrangements with the provider or center before the day.

These are preparation prompts, not universal permission to bring an item. The provider’s instructions decide what is permitted.

Confirm extra time in advance

ISTQB allows a 25% time extension for candidates sitting in a non-native language. The board or provider handles the application and approval. Check that your appointment shows the approved duration.

Accessibility needs are separate from the language extension. Ask the provider what adjustments it offers, what evidence it needs and how much notice it wants.

Use the exam instructions during the attempt

Read each question and the number of answers it asks for. Use only the tools the platform allows, and ask the proctor through the permitted channel if you are unsure about a procedure.

Do not record or share live exam questions. Afterwards, use syllabus topics to identify knowledge gaps without reproducing protected exam content.

Report a technical or appointment problem promptly

Follow the provider’s support process during the appointment where possible. Record the time, booking reference and error message after the session. Explain what happened without including exam questions or confidential identity documents.

If a session was interrupted, ask the provider how it was recorded and what happens next. Wait for that answer before you buy another attempt.