Few things in life
make people as nervous as exams. Preparing for a test and taking it involves great
amounts of stress. It could get even more taxing if you have to organize the
exam yourself and look for external
proctoring services. Good news is that there are test centres that
provide professional proctored
testing services and can help you have a more positive exam experience.
What is a proctored exam?
You will need exam proctoring if you’re taking a high-stakes professional test
or exam that allow you to become certified by certain regulatory bodies or
associations. You might also use proctoring services if you are giving general
exams that test your language, analytical, or writing skills required for
college applications or other purposes.
Today, in this era of advanced technology, you can take a proctored exam at home by
installing special invigilation software on your computer. However, this
process requires time and dedication. You will need to figure out how to set it
up, how to get the exam materials from your provider, and how to schedule the
exam. Therefore, taking your exams in professional test centres is advisable.
The benefits of going to a test centre that provides proctored testing services
are apparent. Professional proctors know everything about the procedures of the
exams they oversee. They can guide you and answer all your questions. So, any
concerns you have about what happens during or after the test can be
alleviated. Proctors will also make sure that your experience on an exam day is
as stress-free as possible.
How to prepare for
the test day?
Once you’ve booked your exam, you’ll need to hit the books or
online study materials recommended by the exam provider. Get lots of sleep, eat
well and take breaks during your studies. Make sure you check out the location
of your test centre providing external proctoring services in advance and allow yourself
plenty of time to get there.
Bring a government-issued ID with your photo and signature
on it. What you can bring with you to the proctored exam is determined by the test centre and
the exam provider. Check the list of allowed items in advance. Prepare to
arrive at least 30 minutes early for your exam, so you have enough time to go
through the registration process and settle in to the exam room before the test
starts.
- The exam centre will require you to follow several steps:
- Upon arrival, you will be greeted and welcomed by a test centre administrator.
- Present a valid ID. You will need to sign in at the exam centre in a log book.
- Once you are signed in, the administrator will give you any materials you need for the exam. This may be a blank paper or a white board and a pen. The proctor will show you to your locker and provide you with a key. You can use the locker for storing all your personal belongings as you may not be allowed to take anything into the exam lab except for what is provided or approved. You will keep your ID and your locker key with you during the exam
- If your certification organisation or regulatory body requires biometric sign-in, the process will include fingertip scanning and photo ID scanning by a digital reader.
- Once in the room, the proctor will explain the rules and regulations that apply to external proctoring services and will also cover any rules and regulations specific to the test you are taking.
- Raise your hand during the exam to have the proctor come to assist you.
Test centers take exam proctoring very seriously, so even your accessories, for
example, jewelry or eyeglasses, may be inspected before entering the exam lab.
You may also be asked to remove them and leave them in your locker. Watches, coats,
electronic devices, purses, food, drink, hats, and so forth are not permitted
into the exam room. The test centre administrator will explain to you the
policies for taking breaks during your proctored exam and what you may be allowed to do
on your breaks.
Exams are always stressful. Not knowing what to expect can escalate
the stress levels. Contact your proctored testing services provider in advance to eliminate your
concerns and let experienced proctors handle the whole process so that you can
focus on the exam itself. Good luck.
