Preparing for Your Proctorio Exam
Overview
Proctorio is designed to be simple and automated so that test-takers can focus on what's important: studying the content and practicing skills. However, setting aside a little time before your exam to prepare yourself, device, and space may relieve some worry and reduce the likelihood of any issues.
Watch the video below to preview the full Proctorio exam experience; please note that not all steps and requirements may apply to your exam.
What do I need
At a minimum, you will need a stable internet connection as well as a laptop or desktop device with the Secure Exam Proctor extension installed on a supported web browser. Other devices and materials may be optional, required, or prohibited depending on institutional policies and exam settings.
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Preparing Yourself
Knowing what to expect and planning for different scenarios can help alleviate a lot of testing anxiety.
- Familiarize yourself with the test-taker experience. Learn More↗
- Complete any practice exams provided by your institution.
- Know how to access Proctorio support. Learn More↗
- Know how to resume your exam in case you are removed or temporarily disconnected. Some administrators may not permit re-entry. Learn More↗
- Carefully read all instructions provided by your exam administrator; contact them beforehand with questions or concerns.
- Use the bathroom and collect all your authorized exam materials, including snacks and beverages, before starting your exam. Breaks may not be permitted, and you may be expected to remain visible for the duration of the exam.
Optimizing Your Device
Complete the following checklist before your exam to address potential technical issues and reduce unwanted distractions.
- Add the Secure Exam Proctor extension to a supported web browser. Learn More↗
- Check for any available browser, operating system (OS), and hardware updates. Learn More↗
- Confirm your camera and microphone are working properly.
- Disable all unneeded browser extensions. Learn More↗
- Close/quit all unneeded applications.
- Disable all system and browser notifications. Learn More↗
- Bookmark the exam URL for quicker access in case you are removed.
- Confirm your device is fully charged or plug in your device.
- Restart your device before your exam to free up system resources and RAM.
- Download and run Proctorio's free system optimization and device troubleshooting applications. Learn More↗
If possible, have a backup device ready to go in case of an emergency.
Optimizing Your Connection
Complete the following checklist before your exam to enhance your internet connection and reduce possible disruptions.
- Connect your device using a wired ethernet connection; or
- Move as close as possible to your Wi-Fi router or access point.
- Temporarily disconnect other devices on your network.
- Temporarily disable any security application, such as firewalls.
- Test your internet connection. Learn More↗
- Turn off your modem and/or Wi-Fi router for at least 30 seconds; then power back on.
If possible, have a backup connection, such as a mobile hotspot, ready to go in case of an emergency.
Optimizing Your Space
Complete the following checklist before your exam to prepare your space. Your exam administrator will provide you with a list of allowed and prohibited materials, as well as requirements for an acceptable exam environment.
- Confirm your space is evenly and well-lit; avoid sitting with a bright light or window directly behind you.
- Remove any personal items you do not want included in any video, desk, or environment recordings.
- Remove all items prohibited by your exam administrator, such as textbooks, notes, or cell phones.
- Place all required or approved exam materials, such as your photo ID, calculator, or beverage, on the desk or table-top so that it is easily accessible and included in any required desk or environment scans. Learn More↗
- Place a "Do not disturb" sign on your door and/or ask all individuals who share the space to not interrupt you while completing the assessment.
