Completing the Exam Pre-Checks
Overview
To ensure a successful attempt, Proctorio guides each test-taker through a series of pre-checks before admitting them into their exam. The pre-checks are designed to—
- Inform the test-taker and disclose all recorded data;
- detect and fix any potential hardware or connectivity issues;
- validate the test-taker's identity; and
- confirm the integrity of the testing environment.
The pre-check process often takes less than three minutes to complete. If you are removed or disconnected from the exam, you will need to complete all the pre-checks again before resuming your attempt. Your exam administrator controls if you can resume your attempt.
Pre-Check Steps
Each pre-check is described below; however, you may not be required to complete all pre-checks depending on the exam settings. The appearance and behavior of some pre-checks may differ slightly when completing them on a mobile device.
1 | Before You Begin
The Before You Begin page is displayed on all exams and contains important exam information, including all recording and lockdown settings enabled by the exam administrator. The page also generates user-specific alerts that may advise or require you to perform some actions, such as closing other browser tabs or plugging in your device, before proceeding. The "Continue" button will remain unclickable until all required actions are completed.
2 | Advanced Security
Some exams require an additional security step before you can begin. The Advanced Security pre-check page appears when your exam administrator has enabled advanced security settings, and it verifies that the Proctorio Secure Companion App is installed and running on your device before allowing you to proceed. If this page does not appear, no additional setup is needed.
3 | System Diagnostics Test
The System Diagnostics Test page verifies that your device and connection can support all recording requirements enabled by the exam administrator. This step may include up to four diagnostic tests—Webcam, Microphone, Connection, and Desktop—and require you to update some app and site permissions. A successful test is indicated by a green icon and checkmark; a failed test is indicated by a red icon and an "X".
Webcam
The webcam test checks for a connected camera and prompts you, as needed, to permit access to the device. You must select "Allow" to proceed through the pre-checks and access the exam.
Microphone
The microphone test checks for a connected, unmuted microphone and prompts you, as needed, to permit access to the device. You must select "Allow" to proceed through the pre-checks and access the exam.
Connection
The connection test confirms your current internet connection is adequately stable and can support the required upload speeds based on the exam settings.
Desktop
The desktop test confirms the browser can access and record your screen. You must first select the thumbnail preview image of the screen; then click "Share".
Screen Sharing Troubleshooting↗
4 | Webcam Image Test
The Webcam Image Test page captures a set of photos to confirm your face is visible. If Proctorio cannot detect your face, a red "X" will appear on the photos, and you will be given the option to retest. After multiple unsuccessful attempts, Proctorio will automatically initiate a chat with a Support agent who can help you complete the test.
• Check your device for a "privacy shutter"; confirm it's open, otherwise your images will appear entirely black.
• Test in a well-lit room.
• Avoid sitting in front of any bright light sources, like a window or lamp.
• Confirm your face is centered within the video frame
Webcam Image Test Troubleshooting↗
5 | Identification Card
The Identification Card page captures an image of your photo identification (ID) card when required by your exam administrator. By default, Proctorio attempts to auto-detect and photograph your ID. If it cannot, it will provide you the option to take the photo yourself. Please confirm your name is legible before proceeding, otherwise retake the photo.
Based on the exam settings, you may be asked to wait while a Proctorio Support agent verifies your identity; this process normally takes less than two minutes. Once approved, you will be able to proceed.
6 | Exam Agreement
The Exam Agreement page asks you to affirm your identity and accept all policies presented in Proctorio's Terms of Service and Privacy Policy, as well as your institution's academic integrity policy or code of conduct. Your exam administrator may require you to electronically sign the agreement; you can use the keyboard or drawing input options to enter your signature. Otherwise, simply click "I accept" to continue.
7 | Desk (Environment) Scan
The Desk Scan page only appears when either a desk or environment scan is required by your exam administrator. Scans are used to confirm your testing environment is secure, and that you are not using any unauthorized resources. Please make sure to follow the on-screen instructions and any additional instructions provided by your exam administrator.
After you click "I understand", your exam page will load and the exam timer will start. The "Start" prompt will appear a few seconds after your exam page loads; you may be required to perform additional scans at random intervals during the exam depending on the exam settings. The "Done" option will appear after 15 seconds, but you may take as much time as needed to complete the scan.
