You've studied hard, practiced diligently, and your test day is finally here. Knowing exactly what to expect can eliminate anxiety and help you perform your best.
This comprehensive walkthrough covers everything from what to pack the night before to what happens the moment you walk out of the test center. By the end of this guide, test day will hold no surprises.
✓ Test Day Checklist - What to Bring
⚠️ What NOT to Bring
- Study materials - No books, notes, or flashcards in test room
- Electronic devices - Phones must be turned off and stored
- Bags - Most centers have lockers; only bring essentials
- Food - Generally not permitted in test room
- Companions - Only test-takers allowed in test area
Timeline: Your Test Day Hour-by-Hour
Final Preparation
Get 8+ hours of sleep. Pack your bag. Review test center address and parking. Set 2-3 alarms.
Start Your Day Right
Eat a protein-rich breakfast. Double-check you have all ID documents. Leave early to account for traffic.
Arrive at Test Center
Find parking. Use restroom. Turn off phone. Review your appointment details.
Check-In
Present ID documents. Sign in. Store belongings in locker. Receive instructions.
Enter Test Room
Get seated at computer. Test administrator verifies identity. Receive login credentials.
Tutorial & Instructions
Computer tutorial on how the test works. Practice questions to get comfortable. Ask questions if needed.
Take the Test
20 multiple-choice questions. 45 minutes total (but most finish in 15-25 minutes).
Immediate Results
Computer displays pass/fail immediately. Print results. Collect belongings. Exit test center.
Detailed Test Experience
Check-In Process
When you arrive at the test center:
- Reception desk: Present your appointment confirmation and ID
- Identity verification: Staff will verify your photo ID matches you
- Sign-in: You'll sign a register and confirm your personal details
- Storage: Store phone, bags, and prohibited items in provided locker
- Wait area: Sit in waiting room until called (usually just a few minutes)
The Test Room
What it looks like:
- Quiet computer room with individual workstations
- Usually 4-10 other test-takers taking various tests (not all citizenship)
- Test administrator monitoring the room
- Basic computer with mouse and keyboard
- Simple, distraction-free environment
Computer Tutorial (5 minutes)
Before your actual test starts, you'll complete a tutorial:
- How to read questions on screen
- How to select answers (click radio button)
- How to move to next question (click "Next")
- Practice questions to get comfortable
Important: This tutorial time doesn't count against your 45 minutes. Take your time to get comfortable with the interface.
Taking the Test
Test Format
- 20 questions total
- All multiple choice (usually 3 options per question)
- One question at a time displayed on screen
- Cannot go back to previous questions once you click "Next"
- Progress indicator shows which question you're on (e.g., "Question 5 of 20")
- No timer visible (but you have 45 minutes total)
What each question looks like:
- Question text at top of screen
- 3 answer options with radio buttons
- Clear, easy-to-read font (adjustable if needed)
- "Next" button to submit answer and move forward
Test-taking tips:
- Read each question carefully before looking at answers
- Eliminate obviously wrong answers first
- Make your best educated guess if unsure (no penalty for wrong answers)
- Don't rush - you have plenty of time (average completion: 20 minutes)
- Stay calm and trust your preparation
Accessibility Support
If you need accommodations:
- Language support: Test available in several languages (check eligibility)
- Extra time: Can be requested for documented disabilities
- Text size: Can be adjusted on screen
- Interpreter: Available for specific circumstances
- Quiet room: Separate room available if needed
Important: Request accommodations when booking your test appointment, not on test day.
Understanding Your Results
Immediate Results
As soon as you answer the 20th question and submit:
- Computer calculates instantly (takes 2-3 seconds)
- Pass/Fail displayed on screen
- Your score shown (e.g., "18/20 correct")
- Values section result (Must be 5/5 to pass)
If You Pass ✅
Congratulations! Here's what happens next:
- Screen displays "Passed" with your score
- Print a copy of your result (keep this safe!)
- Test administrator may give you information about next steps
- Wait for citizenship ceremony invitation (usually 1-6 months)
- Monitor your email and ImmiAccount for ceremony details
Passing Criteria Reminder
You must achieve BOTH:
- 75% overall score (15 out of 20 questions correct)
- 100% on values questions (all 5 values questions correct)
Missing even one values question = automatic failure, regardless of overall score.
If You Don't Pass ❌
Don't be discouraged - you can retake the test:
- No waiting period: Can book another test immediately
- No limit: Retake as many times as needed
- Fee applies: Standard test fee for each attempt
- Review weak areas: Use this experience to focus your study
- More practice: Take additional mock tests before rebooking
Common reasons for not passing:
- Failed one or more values questions (most common)
- Rushed through questions without reading carefully
- Misunderstood what the question was asking
- Insufficient preparation time
Practice in Real Test Conditions
Simulate the actual test experience with our computer-based mock tests. Get comfortable with the format before test day.
Start Free Practice →Common Test Day Questions
Q: Can I bring my phone?
Yes, but it must be turned off and stored in the locker. You cannot use it in the waiting room or test area.
Q: What if I need to use the bathroom during the test?
You can request a bathroom break, but your test timer continues running. Plan ahead by using facilities before entering the test room.
Q: Can I bring someone with me for support?
They can wait in the waiting area or outside, but cannot enter the test room with you.
Q: What if I arrive late?
You may not be allowed to take the test and will need to rebook (and pay again). Always arrive 15-20 minutes early.
Q: Do I need to know how to use a computer?
Basic skills only: point and click with a mouse. The tutorial at the start will show you everything you need to know.
Q: What if the computer crashes during my test?
Immediately notify the test administrator. Your progress is saved, and you can continue from where you left off.
Q: Can I change my answer after clicking "Next"?
No. Once you click "Next," that answer is submitted and you cannot go back. Take your time with each question.
Mental Preparation Tips
The Night Before
- Stop studying early: No intense review after 8pm
- Relax: Watch a movie, read a book, do something enjoyable
- Sleep schedule: Get to bed at a reasonable time for 8+ hours
- Prepare everything: Lay out clothes, pack bag, set alarms
Test Day Morning
- Wake up early: Give yourself plenty of time, no rushing
- Healthy breakfast: Protein and complex carbs for sustained energy
- Light review only: Quick glance at values if needed, don't cram
- Positive mindset: You've prepared well, trust yourself
Managing Test Anxiety
- Deep breathing: 4 counts in, 4 counts hold, 4 counts out
- Positive affirmations: "I am prepared. I can do this."
- Perspective: You can retake if needed - it's not the end of the world
- Focus on process: Take one question at a time
After the Test
If You Passed
- Celebrate! You've earned it
- Keep your result safe: Store printed copy and take photo
- Wait for ceremony invitation: Usually 1-6 months
- Check email/ImmiAccount regularly: Don't miss your ceremony date
- Prepare for ceremony: When invited, respond promptly
If You Didn't Pass
- Take a day to process: It's okay to feel disappointed
- Identify weak areas: Which questions did you struggle with?
- Focused study plan: Target your specific gaps
- More practice tests: Take 5-10 full mock tests
- Rebook when ready: Don't rush, but don't wait too long
Final Checklist - The Day Before
✓ Confirm You're Ready
You've Got This!
Test day doesn't need to be stressful. With proper preparation and knowing exactly what to expect, you can walk into that test center with confidence.
Remember: Thousands of people pass this test every week. You've studied, you've practiced, and you're ready. Trust your preparation, take your time with each question, and soon you'll be celebrating your Australian citizenship!
Good luck! 🇦🇺