Whether you’re a seasoned aviation student or this is your first time at BGS, the aim of this blog is to walk you through what to expect on the day of your EASA exams and provide helpful tips to ease some of the stress.
What This Guide Covers
Before we begin, it’s important to note that this blog is not an official exam briefing. Instead, it’s an orientation to help students write their exams at BGS for the first time. We will discuss permitted materials, exam day logistics, and how to navigate the exam software to make your experience as smooth as possible. Before your exam, ensure that you familiarise yourself with exam-related information on the Austro Control website, found at: Austro Control GmbH – Examination
Permitted Items for Your Exam
Depending on the specific exam you’re taking, you may bring several approved items into the exam room. These include:
– A clear plastic ruler
– A non-programmable, non-alphanumeric calculator (with no aviation-specific functions)
– An approved manual flight computer
– A Jeppesen General Student Pilot Route Manual
– Protractors, compasses, dividers, and writing tools (pens and pencils)
– A non-digital translation dictionary, if needed
In addition, CAP documents are permitted for certain exams, specifically in Mass and Balance, Performance (for both planes and helicopters), Flight Planning and Monitoring, and General Navigation. However, make sure these documents are unmarked and free of any notes before the exam, as they will be inspected.
Items Not Permitted
Certain items are strictly prohibited from the exam room, including:
– Opaque pencil cases (use clear plastic ones)
– Mobile phones
– Watches (due to the possibility of wireless connections)
– Recording or communication devices
– Digital flight computers
What to Expect on Exam Day
To ensure that everything runs smoothly, plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before your exam. You may be called into the exam room up to 20 minutes early, giving you time to settle at your desk and receive any last-minute instructions from the invigilators. Ensure you bring an ID (passport or driving licence) for verification.
Upon arrival, fill out the Visitor’s Record Book at reception and take note of the fire safety information, including the various fire escapes and meeting points.
Exam Room Layout and Environment
Our exam room is designed to facilitate concentration and provide a comfortable environment. We encourage you to use our common areas before or after your exam to network with other students. Networking is crucial in aviation, and you may find it helpful to exchange tips or experiences with your peers. There’s also a kitchen where you can grab a cup of tea or coffee to calm your nerves.
Navigating the Exam Software
Your exam will be conducted on an iPad, and the login credentials will be provided on a slip of paper. Here’s a quick guide to navigating the system:
- Login Screen: Enter your credentials and verify your information. Ensure all fields are filled out correctly.
- Home Screen: Once logged in, you’ll see a list of the exams you’re scheduled to write. Wait for the invigilator’s permission before selecting the correct exam from the list.
- Exam Rules: Before starting the exam, review the exam policy carefully. By clicking “Start,” you acknowledge and agree to these rules, at which point the exam timer will begin.
- Exam Layout:
– The timer at the top displays how much time you have left.
– The main body of text contains the question, and just below, you’ll see a number of multiple-choice answers.
– If your exam includes attachments, buttons to access them will appear below the questions. Sometimes these attachments are printed out and will be available at your desk.
– You can pin questions to review later using the filter button.
– The speech bubble icon allows you to flag questions for an appeal if you feel they are unfair or outside the scope of the learning objectives. Remember, these comments must be submitted during the exam.
- Progress Bar: At the bottom of the screen, the progress bar will show how many questions you’ve answered. Ensure all questions are completed before finishing.
- Submitting Your Exam: Once you’re done, click the logout button at the top-right corner. After completing your exam, the invigilator will take note of your results, which will also be uploaded from the iPad for backup.
Exam Results and Evaluation
After submitting your exam, you’ll immediately see your results. The passing grade is 75%, and your score will be displayed as a decimal (not rounded). In addition to your results, you will receive feedback on the learning objectives you did not manage to satisfy, this will allow you to identify and focus on areas that need improvement.
This blog has covered the essentials of preparing for and writing your EASA exams at Bristol Ground School. We hope this guide helps alleviate some of the uncertainty you may feel. On behalf of the whole team at BGS, we wish you the best of luck in your exams!
Good luck!
