What to Do 48 Hours Before an Exam With a Scribe

The final 48 hours before an exam are less about cramming and more about logistics. When you are working with a scribe, a few extra coordination steps can make the day run smoothly. This guide covers the practical details to check so you can focus on the test itself.

Reconfirm Every Detail

Exam authorities, schools, and universities set their own accommodation rules. Policies can change between semesters, so treat your previous approval as a starting point, not a guarantee for this specific sitting.

• Scribe confirmation: Contact your scribe or the coordination service to verify the date, start time, and exact room location. Confirm they have received their official instructions from the exam office.
• Exam authority verification: Email or call the disability services office or exam officer. Ask them to confirm in writing that your scribe accommodation is approved for this specific paper.
• Approved support list: Verify exactly what the scribe is permitted to do. A scribe records what you dictate. They do not answer questions, explain prompts, or structure essays for you. Ensure both you and the scribe are clear on these boundaries.
• Technology and tools: If you use a laptop, specific software, or assistive technology, confirm the exam venue has the correct setup and power access. Ask who provides the equipment.

Organize Documents and ID

Gather everything into one folder or bag the night before. Searching for a missing ID card on exam morning adds unnecessary pressure.

• Photo ID (student card, driver’s license, or passport).
• Printed copy of your accommodation approval letter or email.
• Exam timetable with seat/room number highlighted.
• Contact numbers for the exam office, disability services, and your scribe coordinator.
• Any required medical documentation (if requested by the authority).

Plan Travel and Arrival

Aim to arrive at least 30 minutes before the scheduled entry time. This buffer handles building access issues, room changes, or a late-running previous exam.

• Route check: Look up the venue address. Check for roadworks, public transport disruptions, or parking restrictions active on exam day.
• Meeting point: Agree on a specific spot to meet your scribe (e.g., "outside Room 204" or "at the main exam hall doors"). Do not rely on finding each other inside a crowded hallway.
• Accessibility needs: If you require step-free access, an elevator key, or a specific desk setup, confirm these are ready at the venue 48 hours out.

Prepare Your Emergency Contacts

Save key numbers in your phone and write them on a paper backup.

• Exam office / invigilator hotline.
• Disability support officer.
• Scribe agency or volunteer coordinator.
• A trusted family member or friend who knows your schedule.

If a scribe is delayed or a room changes, you want to reach the decision-makers immediately.

Prioritize Rest and Routine

The "48 hours before exam" window is not the time for major changes.

• Sleep: Protect your sleep schedule. Two nights of solid rest matter more than the night immediately before.
• Medication and meals: Stick to your normal routine. If you take medication, confirm timing with your clinician so it aligns with the exam window.
• Avoid new strategies: Do not try a new dictation technique, a new caffeine level, or a new revision method now. Trust the preparation you have already done.

Practical Next Steps: Your 48-Hour Exam Checklist

Use this list to run a final systems check. Tick each item off as you go.

• Verify approval: Written confirmation from exam authority received for this exam.
• Scribe locked in: Scribe confirms time, location, and role boundaries (dictation only).
• Venue logistics: Room number, building access, and accessibility features confirmed.
• Travel plan: Route checked for disruptions; departure time set for 30-minute early arrival.
• Meeting point: Specific location agreed with scribe.
• Documents packed: ID, approval letter, timetable, contact list in bag.
• Tech checked: Laptop charged, software tested, venue power confirmed (if applicable).
• Emergency contacts: Saved in phone and written on paper.
• Rest scheduled: Calendar blocked for wind-down time tonight and tomorrow night.
• No new variables: Meals, meds, and revision routine kept consistent.

If anything feels uncertain, reach out to your exam office or disability advisor today. It is always better to ask a question now than to troubleshoot it at the exam door.