Exam Preparation
FRM Exam Day Checklist: Everything You Need to Know Before Stepping Into the Exam Hall
So, the big day is almost here!
Months of preparation, countless question banks, formulas scribbled on whiteboards, and now it all comes down to this one day. The FRM exam is no joke — and the last thing you want is to get derailed by something silly like a missing calculator battery or an invalid ID.
That’s why we’ve created this ultimate FRM Exam Day Checklist — so you can walk into the test center with complete clarity and confidence.
Before You Leave Home: Double-Check These Must-Haves
Let’s start with the absolute essentials — if you don’t have these, you won’t be allowed to sit for the exam.
1. Your Valid Admission Ticket
- Download it from your GARP account and print it in black-and-white or color.
- Double-check that your name matches exactly with your ID (including middle names, spelling, etc.).
- Make sure the ticket is signed and includes your GARP ID.
2. A Valid Government-Issued Photo ID
- Acceptable IDs include:
- Passport
- Driver’s License
- National ID (with signature and photo)
- The ID must be original (not a photocopy), non-expired, and must match the name on your admission ticket.
- It must include a recent photograph and a signature.
Tip: GARP is strict. If your ID is even slightly questionable, you may be turned away.
What to Bring to the Exam Center
Required Items:
- Admission ticket
- Valid government-issued ID
- Approved calculator (BA II Plus or HP 12C)
(Spare batteries are highly recommended) - Two or more black or blue ballpoint pens
- Face mask (if still required by local policy)
What’s NOT Allowed:
- Notes, study material, cheat sheets
- Mobile phones, smartwatches, or any digital devices
- Pencil cases or bags (unless permitted by the center)
- Food or drinks (unless required for medical reasons)
Timing is Everything: Be Punctual
- Arrive at least 30–45 minutes early. Most centers begin check-in procedures well before the start time.
- Late arrivals may be denied entry — and GARP has a no-refund policy for missed exams.
Mental Prep Before the Exam
This isn’t just a test of knowledge — it’s a test of stamina and time management.
Quick Reminders:
- Don’t cram on the day of the exam. Trust your preparation.
- Visualize success. Imagine yourself calmly moving through questions.
- Get a good night’s sleep. It sounds obvious, but it’s crucial.
Exam Strategy Tips (From Experience!)
- Don’t get stuck on one question. Flag it and move on. Come back later if time permits.
- Mark your answer sheet clearly. No stray marks, no uncertainty.
- Manage time per section. For Part 1, aim for ~1.5 minutes per question.
After the Exam
- You won’t get your result immediately. It typically takes 6–8 weeks.
- Use this time to reflect — or rest!
- If you’re taking Part 2 next, review what worked and plan forward.
Final Thoughts
The FRM exam can feel overwhelming — but remember, you’ve done the hard part already: the preparation. Now it’s just about execution.
So breathe, double-check your checklist, and go in with confidence.
You’ve got this.
Good luck from all of us at MidhaFin!
Quick Snapshot: Your FRM Exam Day Essentials
| Item | Required? | Notes |
| Admission Ticket | ✅ | Printed and signed |
| Government-issued ID | ✅ | Original, valid, matches ticket |
| GARP-approved Calculator | ✅ | BA II Plus / HP 12C only |
| Extra batteries | ✅ | Highly recommended |
| Blue/Black ballpoint pens | ✅ | Carry 2 or more |
| Face mask (if required) | ✅ | Based on local guidelines |
| Water/Snacks | ❌ | Only with medical approval |
🔗 Useful Links
- Official GARP Exam Policies – https://www.garp.org/frm/exam-policies
- Free Last Minute Crash Course – https://www.frm.midhafin.com/part-1/crash-course
