What are the rules to follow during a public examination or competition?
Verified 19 May 2026 - Public Service / (Prime Minister)
If you are a candidate for an exam (baccalaureate for example) or a competition (aggregation for example) of the National Education or higher education, you must respect rules for the smooth running of the test. These include access to and exit from the examination room. Failure to comply with these instructions could result in a fine and a prison sentence. We're taking stock of the regulations.
Schedules
The hours of access to the room are specified on the convocation.
You can't choose your seat. You must install yourself in the place assigned to you.
You can't enter the room after opening of the envelope containing the subject. Exceptionally, the center manager may allow you to enter. However, you will not be entitled to additional time.
Warning
One hour after the start of the event, you may not be allowed to enter the room, regardless of the reason for your delay.
Verification of identity
You must present your summons and one identity document (passport or identity card or driver's license) valid or expired for less than 5 years with your photo.
In case of loss or theft, you can present the receipt of declaration of theft or loss.
FYI
If you are a foreigner and cannot show ID, you must ask your school principal to provide you with a recent school certificate with your photo.
Authorized Material
Authorized material is specified on the summons.
Unauthorized equipment (bags, binders,...) is grouped in one part of the room. No candidate can have access to it during the test.
You can use a calculator only if it is provided for in the subject of the test.
You can only use the paper provided by the administration (including the draft).
Your mobile phone must be turned off and stored in a bag or be entrusted to the room supervisor.
Communication
You cannot communicate with other candidates during the test.
The use of a mobile phone or a device allowing the exchange of information is considered an attempt at fraud.
If you are surprised in a situation of attempted or flagrante delicto fraud, the room supervisor intervenes to put an end to it. He drafts a report which is forwarded to the rector for possible legal proceedings.
The supervisor ensures that you complete the test.
The center manager may, however, decide to expel you from the room in one of the following cases:
- You took the identity of another person
- You disrupt the course of the event.
Fraud is a offense. You and your accomplices risk up to 3 years in prison and €9,000 of fine.
Temporary exit
No candidate can go out during the 1re time of the ordeal.
Afterwards, you may be allowed to leave the room temporarily by the room supervisor (to go to the toilet for example).
You go out one by one, without your copy. A temporary release does not entitle you to additional time.
Final Output
When you leave the exam room permanently, you must follow the following steps:
- Hand over your copy, without any distinguishing sign, even if it is a white copy
- Sign the sign-in list.
Final exit is prohibited before the end of the 1re time.
If you are unable to participate in the event, for health reasons for example, you must promptly notify the organizer of the exam or contest.
In some cases, a replacement session may be scheduled.
If you have a disability, you can have the right to an accommodation to pass your exams.