Your Test-Taking Toolkit: 15 Essential Items to Pack for Exam Day
On the morning of the HSAT, your mental energy should be focused on one thing: the test itself. You shouldn't be wasting precious focus worrying about a forgotten admission ticket or a broken pencil point. A well-organized test-day bag is a simple but critical part of a stress-free, successful experience.
As we discussed in our "Night Before the Test" guide, you should pack this bag the evening before. This ultimate checklist will ensure you have everything you need.
Disclaimer: Rules can change. Always check the official GoCPS website for the most current list of permitted and prohibited items for your specific test year.
Category 1: The "Cannot Enter Without" Items
These are absolutely non-negotiable. Double-check for them before you leave the house.
Your Printed Admission Ticket: You will not be allowed into the test center without this.
A Valid Photo ID: A current school ID is usually perfect for this.
Category 2: The Tools of the Trade
These are the items you'll be actively using during the exam.
Several Sharpened #2 Pencils: Don't rely on just one. Bring at least three, already sharpened. Mechanical pencils are often not allowed.
A High-Quality Eraser: The erasers on the ends of pencils are notoriously bad. A separate, good-quality eraser can prevent smudges and messy answer sheets.
Category 3: The Comfort and Pacing Items
These items help you stay comfortable and in control.
A Simple Watch (Non-Smart): A basic digital or analog watch is essential for pacing yourself. Make sure any alarms or beeping functions are turned off. Smartwatches are strictly prohibited.
A Water Bottle: Check the rules for your test year, but often a clear water bottle with the label removed is permitted. Staying hydrated is key to focus.
Comfortable, Layered Clothing: A sweatshirt or zip-up you can easily take off will save you from being distracted by a room that is too hot or too cold.
Category 4: What to Leave at Home (or Stored Away)
Bringing a prohibited item can cause major problems, even dismissal from the test. Leave these at home or make sure they are turned completely off and stored in a locker or bag away from your desk.
Your Cell Phone (IMPORTANT): Must be turned completely OFF (not just on silent). A phone that makes any noise during the test can be grounds for dismissal.
Calculators: These are never allowed on the HSAT.
Smartwatches, Fitness Trackers, or any device that can connect to the internet.
Highlighters, Pens, Correction Fluid.
Books, Notes, or Dictionaries.
Food or Drinks (other than water, if allowed).
A Healthy Snack: For after the test. You’ll be hungry, and this is a great way to recharge.
Tissues: Just in case.
The Full Dress Rehearsal
The best way to get comfortable with your toolkit is to use it. When you do your final, full-length CPS HSAT Practice Tests, create a full simulation. Use only your #2 pencils, time yourself with your simple watch, and put your phone in another room. This makes the real test day feel familiar and reduces anxiety.
By packing your toolkit the night before, you eliminate last-minute panic and free up all of your mental energy for the questions in front of you. Walk in prepared, and show them everything you know!