But having problem-free transportation on the day is not impossible, obviously. All you need is a little bit of preparation beforehand. Below is my general advice to a transport-issue-free CFA exam day.
Ever seen thousands and thousands of people try to arrive at the same place at the exact same time? It ain’t pretty.
If you live fairly distant away from your test centre I highly recommend that you stay overnight in a friend’s place or a hotel the night before, close to the test centre. You want to wake up refreshed and ready to take the exam on exam day, and not spend the first 3-4 hours of your day travelling to the test centre.
Advice for specific modes of transport:
- Public transportation: Make sure it’s running on the day itself
- Cabs: Book your cab early – I guarantee you they will be all booked up.
- Driving: I suggest to aim to park slightly further away from the test centre and take a short walk. You may find that saves a lot more time than queuing for a parking space.
- Walking or biking: Frankly I think this is the best option if you can swing it. Only thing to watch out for is the weather.
The last thing you need is to prepare for it all but not arrive in time to take the bloody exam, so make sure that doesn’t happen. It’s easier to screw it up than you think.
But I hear you ask – I’m only talking about getting there, what about after the exam? Won’t the same problems exist?
Who gives a toss? The exam is over. Have a few pints, wait a while. It’s all good.
Good luck!