This article is for candidates.
This article provides guidance on how to prepare for a test using proctoring. The test will be recorded and monitored by a proctor and is held to the same standards as a classroom examination. Please give yourself plenty of time to read this guide.
For additional information, see the articles on Taking a proctored test.
Before taking a proctored test
You will be taking a remotely proctored test that is set to the same standards as a classroom. During the test you will be monitored by a proctor. The test will be recorded. You will be expected to confirm your identity and have a room that is tidy, well-lit, and clear of papers or books to sit your test.
To take the test, you will need:
- A Laptop with Windows 10 & above.
- or, a Mac Book with Mac OS 10.11 and above.
- A strong/stable internet connection with (a minimum of 5 Mbps Upload and Download speed).
- A charger.
- A microphone.
- A quiet and well-lit room where you will not be disturbed.
- Photo ID – accepted ID: driver's license, passport, or Student ID.
- Mobile device with a working camera and microphone to be used as the secondary camera device.
Before the test day, please make sure you have these items ready.
Device and system requirements
You must use a functional laptop computer with optimal performance. Please set Google Chrome as your default browser for a better exam experience.
Default browser
To set Google Chrome as your default browser you need to follow these steps:
- On your computer, click the Start menu.
- Click Control panel.
- Click Programs Default programs. Set your default programs.
- On the left, select Google Chrome.
- Click Set this program as default.
- Click OK.
System requirements
These are the minimum system requirements for running a proctored exam:
Hardware | |
| Processor | 1.8 GHz or faster x86-compatible processor |
| Internet connection | Minimum 5Mbps, recommended 10Mbps |
| The use of mobile cards/dongles/personal hotspots may not guarantee a constant bandwidth and therefore are not supported | |
| Memory (RAM) | 4GB |
| Video | Single display |
| Screen resolution of 1024x768 | |
| Graphics card with at least 128MB of memory | |
| Webcam | Webcam 640 x 480 pixels recording colour at 15fps and a microphone |
Technical setup
- Test your computer's audio and video settings to ensure they are working correctly.
- Ensure the speakers on your laptop are turned on.
- Close all unnecessary applications and browser tabs.
- Test the internet in your work area to ensure you have good wi-fi or wired internet connection.
Physical environment and ID
You must choose a quiet and well-lit room where you will not be disturbed for the entire test. You cannot change the test room during the test.
Required room conditions
Your test room must be:
- Well-lit: So the proctor can see you clearly.
- Quiet: Choose a location where you will not be disturbed during the test.
- Private: you need to be sure you will be alone for the entire test.
- Clear: Clear your workspace of any materials not permitted by the test guidelines.
- Clean: Free from clutter and items that are relevant to the subject of the test. Ensure there are no stickers, notes, or writing on the desk or computer, and nothing on the floor around the desk.
- Free from Private Documents: Remove personal belongings or documents that might reveal personal information. This could be bank statements, photos, or anything that might reveal personal information about you that you would not want to be captured in the test recording).
- Remove distractions: Remove any potential distractions and unauthorised equipment, such as smartwatches, headphones, MP3/4 players, or other electronic devices.
Identification
You must have a valid photo identification document ready for the ID check. Ensure your ID card has a clear picture of you to use for the ID check. Soft copies of ID card are not allowed.
- Accepted ID: Driver's license, passport, or Student ID.
- Requirement: Ensure your face is clearly visible on the webcam throughout the test.
- Follow any instructions provided by the Proctor for the identification and authentication process (Live Proctoring only).
Permitted and Non-Permitted Items
-
- One laptop (Windows/Mac) for taking the exam.
- One mobile phone with a working webcam and microphone to use as a secondary camera (if required as part of the test)
- Google Chrome
- Student ID card, Driver’s License, Passport
- Water in a clear glass/bottle without labels
- One Scrap paper and a pen (please note you need to rip up handwritten notes at the end of the exam.)
-
- Mobile Phone (Apart from the Secondary camera device, if required)
- Tablet
- Smart Book
- Pager
- Smart Watch
- Digital Headphones
- Multiple Devices (second laptop, tablet etc)
- Camera
- Video Recorder
- Landline/Desk phone