United States
Hong KongWhat you can and cannot bring
You may bring the approved references with permanent index tabs and highlighting. Loose notes, written annotation beyond what the bulletin permits, and unapproved books are not allowed.
The one exam where what you bring is most of your preparation, so the rules matter.
Permitted
- The approved reference books, in the editions the bulletin names
- Permanent index tabs
- Highlighting
- Photo identification
Not permitted
- Loose notes or paper of any kind
- Books not on the approved list
- Phones and connected devices
- Anything written into a book beyond what the bulletin allows
The rules on what may be written in a book are specific and they are the ones candidates most often get wrong. Tabs and highlighting are the safe ground. Anything beyond that, check rather than assume, because a book refused at the door is a book you sit without.
Why loose notes are excluded
Because a page of notes is a different examination. The open-book format tests whether you can find your way around the references, and a summary sheet would replace that skill entirely. Check every book. Tabs are safe.
Which is also why your index has to live in the books themselves.
Editions are checked
A book in the wrong edition may be refused. Verify each one against the current bulletin before exam day rather than at the door.
The practical check
The night before, go through every book. Remove receipts, sticky notes and anything tucked between pages. Confirm nothing has been written in beyond what is allowed.
It takes twenty minutes and it prevents the worst possible start to a five-and-a-half-hour exam.
Common questions
What can I bring to the NASCLA exam?
The approved reference books with permanent index tabs and highlighting, plus photo identification.
Can I bring notes?
No. Loose notes and paper are not permitted.
Can I write in my books?
Tabs and highlighting are permitted. For anything beyond that, check the current bulletin rather than assuming.
Are editions checked?
Yes. A book in the wrong edition may be refused at the door.
What should I check the night before?
Every book, for receipts, sticky notes and anything tucked between pages or written in.