The short answer is: bring only the items approved by your school, usually a pen or pencil, required identification, and possibly a clear water bottle or compatible wired headphones. Do not assume you should bring your own laptop, paper, notes, dictionary, or other equipment. Exact MYP History eAssessment logistics vary by school, so your coordinator's written instructions always take priority.
MYP History is assessed through the Individuals and Societies on-screen examination when a school registers candidates for that subject. Although the examination is digital, schools control the devices, candidate checks, room procedures, and storage of personal belongings.
Quick MYP History exam-day checklist
| Item | What you should do |
|---|---|
| Pen or pencil | Bring one if your school asks you to use it on official rough paper |
| Identification | Bring school or photo identification only if required |
| Water | Use a clear, label-free bottle if your school permits it |
| Headphones | Bring wired headphones only when instructed |
| Laptop or computer | Bring a personal device only if the school approved and tested it |
| Notes and books | Leave them outside the examination room |
| Phone and smartwatch | Switch them off and store them as instructed |
| Loose paper | Do not bring it; use only paper issued by the school |
The safest rule is simple: if an item is not on your school's approved list, do not take it to your workstation.
What students will normally need
A pen or pencil
A pen or pencil may be used for planning on authorized rough paper. Some schools provide writing equipment, while others ask candidates to bring their own. Do not bring loose sheets, notebooks, revision cards, or paper containing writing.
Identification, if requested
Some schools require a student card, examination card, or photo identification during candidate checks. This is a local administrative requirement, not a universal IB rule. Confirm the acceptable form of identification several days before the examination.
Water, if permitted
Many schools allow water in a clear bottle, often with the label removed. Other drinks and food are normally kept outside unless an approved medical arrangement applies. Ask about the exact container rules because opaque bottles or bottles with electronic features may not be accepted.
Wired headphones, when instructed
The IB's official on-screen examination preparation guidance includes headphones in the technical setup. History assessments may contain multimedia source material, so reliable audio equipment matters.
Your school decides whether headphones are provided. If instructed to bring your own, use wired headphones tested with the examination device. Do not bring Bluetooth earbuds unless your coordinator explicitly authorizes them.
What the school normally provides
The school is responsible for preparing a secure examination environment. This normally includes:
- a compatible computer, keyboard, and mouse
- installed examination software and candidate access details
- authorized rough paper
- timing and invigilation instructions
- technical support if a problem occurs
Official IB guidance says every workstation requires a reliable computer, keyboard, mouse with a scroll wheel, and headphones. A personal laptop may be permitted in some arrangements, but it must pass the school's compatibility and security checks beforehand. Do not arrive with your own laptop unless specifically instructed.
MYP eAssessment includes on-screen examinations and externally moderated components. Individuals and Societies examinations, including History where offered, are generally two hours, as outlined in this guide to MYP examination durations.
What not to bring to the workstation
Unless your coordinator approves an exception, leave these items outside:
- history notes, textbooks, timelines, maps, and flashcards
- loose paper, notebooks, and unapproved stationery
- phones, smartwatches, fitness trackers, and communication devices
- wireless earbuds, calculators, and USB drives
- bags, coats, and unapproved pencil cases
A phone on silent is still prohibited equipment. Follow the school's storage procedure, which may require devices to be switched off and placed in a locker, bag, or collection area. Do not assume a dictionary is allowed; language support must follow the rules for the examination session and the candidate's approved circumstances.
Access arrangements and medical needs
An approved inclusive access arrangement is different from bringing extra equipment informally. Modified technology, additional time, rest breaks, medical items, food, or other support must be organized through the MYP coordinator in advance.
The IB's MYP eAssessment registration guidance explains that schools submit requests for inclusive access arrangements before the examination session. Raise access or medical needs early rather than waiting until exam day.
Final checks before exam day
Ask your coordinator:
- When and where must I report?
- Do I need identification?
- Will the school provide rough paper and headphones?
- May I bring water?
- Where will phones, watches, and bags be stored?
- Has any access arrangement been confirmed?
The evening before, pack only confirmed items and plan to arrive at the specified time. For academic preparation, use the RevisionDojo MYP History resource hub, MYP History Questionbank, 30-day study plan, and MYP eAssessment success guide to practise source analysis, timing, and digital exam habits.
Conclusion
For most candidates asking what to bring to MYP History eAssessment, the answer is a permitted pen or pencil, required identification, and only the additional items named by the school. The school normally supplies the computer, examination software, controlled rough paper, and technical equipment. Leave notes, personal paper, phones, watches, and unapproved devices outside the workstation.
Once the practical arrangements are confirmed, focus on historical thinking. RevisionDojo's MYP History resources and Questionbank can support final review and timed on-screen practice.
Sources and referenced URLs
- IB: Preparing for an MYP on-screen examination
- IB: MYP eAssessment registration and access arrangements
- RevisionDojo: What is MYP eAssessment?
- RevisionDojo: MYP examination durations
- RevisionDojo MYP History resources
- RevisionDojo MYP History Questionbank
- RevisionDojo: 30-day study plan
- RevisionDojo: MYP eAssessment success guide
