Calling All Test Takers: Here’s How to Get Ready for Your Final Exams

December is here and it’s time to start preparing for finals! Between the stress of studying for exams, submitting final papers, getting ready for the holidays, and just generally being a human in 2020, we understand that there’s a lot going on in your life. That’s why we’ve compiled a short list of tips to ensure that you’re fully prepared for your final exams with Proctorio.

1. Have you restarted your computer lately?

From streaming Netflix to watching TikToks, your device is likely being used frequently and is in need of a little TLC. It might be time to restart your computer and install all of those dreaded updates. Before restarting your device, make sure all your extra programs are closed and your work is saved. These updates may take a while, so we recommend doing this a few days before finals begin so you’re not rushing the day of your big exam.

2. Has your Wi-Fi been reliable?

Chances are that you’re using the same Wi-Fi as your brother who’s playing video games downstairs or your roommate who has been binge watching The Bachelorette on Hulu. It can be hard to compete for a strong Wi-Fi connection. If possible, it might be worth chatting with your family or roommates to secure a timeframe of lower Wi-Fi usage for your exam sessions. You can always test your internet connection here before beginning a high-stakes exam.

3. Are your Internet browser and Proctorio extension up-to-date?

Using the latest versions of your Internet browser and the Proctorio extension are critical to preventing technical issues. While the Proctorio extension typically updates automatically, circumstances like an unstable Wi-Fi connection or mid-update interruptions can get in the way. Luckily, it only takes seconds to ensure the extension is updated by uninstalling using the “shield” icon in the top-right corner of your browser. From there, visit getproctorio.com to reinstall that new-new and access your exams with no additional stress.

4. Have you taken a practice exam?

Test takers typically enter their first Proctorio-enabled exam with many questions. What if I accidentally look away while thinking about a question? What if a text notification accidentally pops up during the exam? Many questions can be answered by reading this list of frequently-asked questions or by taking a practice exam that your exam administrator can easily set up. The practice exam will ensure you have adequate lighting and include system diagnostics pre-checks that make sure your internet connection, extension, and hardware are all working properly.

5. Have you chatted with your exam administrator about your concerns?

If you’re having difficulty securing a quiet and isolated space to take your exam (i.e. your toddler is listening to “Baby Shark” in the background or you’re sharing an office space with your parents who are working from home), we recommend you communicate this with your exam administrator in advance. Any behavior that may be flagged because of these circumstances can likely be more easily dismissed with advance warning.

6. Do you know how to access Proctorio Support?

No matter how prepared you are, day-of challenges can always come up. Remember that Proctorio’s Support Team is available 24/7/365 (that’s right — you can take your exam at 3pm, 11pm, or 2am) to help you seamlessly access, take, and submit your exams. Click the Proctorio shield icon in the top-right corner of your browser to initiate a live chat and receive a response within seconds.

Nice work, you are officially a pro at navigating Proctorio! Carving out time to work through these steps will make a huge difference in the readiness you feel heading into final exams. Remember to get lots of rest, take care of your health, and always have a warm beverage handy. Good luck and happy holidays!

Note: This blog post was updated for clarity on June 23, 2021.