Being at one of the most critical milestone events in school life, most students feel stress when they approach their CBSE exams. Even under pressure from good performance expectations, they don’t forget simple things such as packing, and hence key to stress-free starting for this test day is beginning preparation well at night before an exam day itself. In this article, we will take you through a checklist of ten must-carry items for CBSE exam day to ensure that everything goes smoothly and without hassle.
1. CBSE Admit Card: Your Gate Pass to the Exam Hall
The most important item on this list is your CBSE admit card. Without it, you won’t be allowed to enter the examination hall. Ensure your admit card is printed with each detail including your name, roll number, exam centre, and photo. It is a good habit to carry two printed copies of the admit card to avoid trouble at the last moment. Keep it safe but accessible because it has to be shown at the entrance.
2. Proof for Govt issued Photo Identity Document: Authentication
In addition to bringing an admit card, bringing a copy of government photo ID proof is equally important. Typically, Aadhar card, voter ID, or passport are accepted. Photo ID is cross-checked to ensure that there is no mix-up with your identity. It is important to carry the same to avoid unwanted delays and confusion at the exam centre.
3. Stationery: Pens, Pencils, and Erasers
Probably, the most often forgotten stationery is that one. Carry a minimum of two ballpoint pens with blue and black ink; a pencil and an eraser; and for mathematics, one may carry a ruler or a geometry box, if required. Ensure that you have working pens, especially speciality pens or pencils, check on the night before use. Being equipped with stationery will also help you avoid panic when it is time to write your answers.
4. Water Bottle: Hydration
Exams are long affairs and very tiring, and it is a must to drink plenty of water. Take a glass bottle of water with you into the exam hall. This way, water will be readily available when you need it in the exam, keeping your mind sharp. Ensure the glass does not have labels that some exam centres might forbid from carrying inside. Hydrate yourself first.
5. Admit Card Envelope: Safeguard Your Documents
Though the admit card is important, the envelope in which it is delivered is no less important. Carry your admit card in a transparent, plastic folder or envelope. It will save the admit card from getting creased, torn, or stained. Hence, the admit card remains undamaged for verification.
Also Read: Avoid These Exam Day Blunders For CBSE 2025
6. Watch: Manage Your Time Well
Many students forget to carry a watch to the exam hall. Although clocks are usually available in the examination room, it is always better to carry your own. A wristwatch will enable you to keep track of time without constantly looking up at the clock on the wall. This is important for effective time management during the exam. Your watch should be uncluttered, preferably with no additional distracting features like a stopwatch or smartwatch, in case they get prohibited in certain centres.
7. Personal Comfort Items: Mints, Tissues, and Sanitizer
A few personal comfort items can go a long way in ensuring you’re at your best during the exam. Carry a packet of mints to freshen your breath and keep your mind alert. A small packet of tissues or wet wipes can be useful in case of spills or allergies. It’s also advisable to carry a small bottle of hand sanitiser to maintain hygiene, especially in exam centres where public touchpoints are common.
8. Essential Medications: Don’t Risk Your Health
Ensure to carry your prescribed medication, in case you require it for conditions such as allergies or asthma so that if an emergency arises, you do not lose precious time trying to locate a pharmacy. Also, avoid carrying the medications in an openly visible bag because this might pose a problem in the exam centre. Be well prepared so nothing goes wrong because of health reasons at the exam centre.
9. Photocopies of Important Documents: Just in Case
Although you will be carrying your admit card and ID proof, it’s always a good idea to have extra photocopies of both with you. Suppose you lose the original admit card or things become complicated; these additional copies will serve as a lifesaver. Keep them in an isolated pocket so that you won’t mix them up.
10. Materials to be Used during the Exam
Some exams, for example, Mathematics or Science, will permit you to carry formula sheets or rough sheets(if allowed). Be sure to check the guidelines of your exam and pack accordingly. Review the instructions for your exam beforehand so that you are not confused on the exam day.
Also Read: CBSE Class12th New Sample Paper 2025 PDF Download
Wrapping Up
Preparing for CBSE exams requires academic interest, but also requires attention to detail. The right stuff taken to the exam centre can relieve unwanted stress and let you concentrate on what matters: the exams themselves. Proceeding with this checklist will ensure that everything goes smoothly on the day of the exams so that you can be confident and give your best performance.
