Remote Proctor FAQ
What does it mean that the exams are now Remote Proctored?
When an exam is a Remote Proctored exam, it means you will now take the exam on your computer at your home or office and the proctor will be monitoring you live, via an online webcam.
What are the benefits of having the exams given via Remote Proctor?
There are many benefits of having exams given via Remote Proctor. You will no longer have to travel to an exam site to take the exam. Within the designated exam week, you will now be able to pick the best day and time to take the exam. Exams can be taken 24 hours a day within the designated exam week. Also, many people feel more comfortable taking an exam in a familiar setting.
What will I need to take the exam via Remote Proctor?
Below is a list of things that you will need to have to take the exams via remote proctor:
- Desktop computer or laptop computer running Microsoft Windows or Mac OSX (Tablets, iPads, Chromebooks and smartphones do not meet our requirements).
- A working built-in or external webcam and microphone.
- A quiet and clean workspace cleared of any books, papers, phones, drinks, etc. where there will be no interruptions.
- You must use Chrome, Firefox or Edge. Chrome is the most compatible. Do not use Safari or Internet Explorer.
- Reliable internet connection. We recommend that your computer is hardwired to the internet to ensure your connection isn’t dropped. Wifi can be used, just be sure the connection is dependable.
- Internet speed must be at least 2 Mbps download and 2 Mbps upload. 10 download/3 upload is recommended. Test your internet speed at: http://www.speedtest.net.
- A valid government issued photo ID must be presented. The first and last name that you register under must match your ID.
How will I know if my computer will work for the exams?
To check your computer and network compatibility, please take this sample exam. If you have issues, you may need to use a different computer or take your exam from a different location. If you are using a company computer or are at work, you can ask your IT department to following the instructions in this guide, which may resolve the issues. Make sure you can successfully take the above exam before your appointment date.
How will I know if my computer will connect with a proctor for the exams?
When launching the exam, the proctor will be using GoToMeeting or Zoom.; If you have used these in past and/or already have this installed on your computer, you should be fine. If you are using a work computer and/or are connected to your employer’s internet we strongly recommend that you test your computer's compatibility before your scheduled exam date. Join a GoToMeeting Test Meeting or a Zoom Test Meeting.
When scheduling your exam, we will have a link available to check the compatibility of your computer. This is why when you schedule your exam you should use the same computer that you will be using to take the exam.
Will I get to use a calculator and scratch paper?
Yes, a calculator is available within the exam. One sheet of scratch paper will be allowed. You will be required to show the paper to the proctor.
I have signed up and paid to take the exams, now what?
You will receive an email with a specific link approximately 2 weeks prior to the first day exams can be taken. This link is specific to your exam and will allow you to schedule the date and time you would like to take the exam. We recommend that you schedule the exam using the same computer you plan on the taking exam with. If you haven't already checked your computers compatibility we strongly recommend you do this.
Will I get my exam results right away?
Exams offered as continuous testing will receive immediate pass/fail results on-screen after the exam is submitted. You will have the option to print or email the exam results. Within 7 – 10 business days for continuous exams, you will also receive an email when official exam results are released with a specific password protected URL to log into. Exams not offered as continuous testing will receive an email approximately four weeks after the exam date when official exam results are released with a specific password protected URL to log into. For Fail results only, you MAY receive the category areas needing the most improvement for future study. Please whitelist or note as a safe sender the email certification@sciencesocieties.org on your email account as this is the email we use to send email notifications to you.