Proctoring requirements for test takers, candidates and students

Get ready for your proctored test with confidence

Taking an online test with proctoring for the first time? Wondering how it works, what you’ll need, and how to be fully prepared? You’re in the right place.

Complete a quick test to ensure your device meets the necessary technical requirements for a successful proctoring session.

Why a proctored assessment with OctoProctor is good for you

A proctored test isn’t just about preventing cheating — it’s about protecting your hard work, your achievements, and the value of your certificate or qualification. Here’s how a proctored assessment with OctoProctor benefits test takers:

User-friendly and non-invasive

Taking an online test with proctoring for the first time? Wondering how it works, what you’ll need, and how to be fully prepared? You’re in the right place.

Your privacy is respected

Your security matters. All data captured during your webcam proctoring session is encrypted, securely stored, and used solely for test integrity verification. No personal files or unrelated activities are accessed, and no recordings are shared beyond your exam provider’s review team.

Protects the integrity of your qualification

When a certificate or qualification requires a proctored exam camera and proctor screen monitoring, it carries more weight. That’s good for your résumé, academic record, and future opportunities.

Trusted, recognized results

Most schools, universities, and certification providers require proctoring enabled exams because they’re credible and respected. A proctored test means your scores are accepted and valued by employers and institutions worldwide.

Fairness for everyone

With online test proctoring in place, you can be confident you’re competing on a level playing field. Everyone follows the same proctoring requirements, which means your results reflect your genuine effort.

Take your test from anywhere

Thanks to secure proctoring systems, you can take your exam from your own space — no need to travel to a testing center. As long as you meet the proctored test requirements, you have the freedom to choose where to test.

No downloads — browser-based and hassle-free

OctoProctor is a fully browser-based proctoring system. No extra software, extensions, or installations needed. Simply launch your proctored test in your browser, and you’re ready to go.

What you need to take a proctored test

A device with a webcam and microphone

To take a proctored test, you’ll need a computer or laptop running Windows, macOS, or Linux, along with a working webcam and microphone.

An up-to-date browser

Our proctoring system works with the latest versions of Chrome, Edge, Opera, Firefox, or Safari.No need to install extra apps or plugins — just update your browser to the latest version and you’re good to go.

A smartphone or tablet

(if required by your assessment organization)

In some cases, you might need to use your phone or tablet as a second proctor camera to show your testing room. Simply scan a QR code on your computer screen with your phone, then open the link in your mobile browser. 

Pro tip: Keep your phone connected to a charger so it doesn’t die during your proctored test.

A stable internet connection

Since your proctored test happens online, you’ll need a reliable internet connection with at least 256 kbps upload and download speed. If you’re using a second device for webcam proctoring, make sure it’s connected to the same network. You can check your internet speed here. If the connection is for some reasons interrupted during the assessment, OctoProctor will restore the proctoring session. However, no connection interruption will allow you to concentrate on your assessment more. 

How to prepare your workspace for a proctored test

A distraction-free, well-lit environment helps keep your proctored test smooth and secure. Here’s how to set it up:

Good lighting

Make sure your face and workspace are clearly visible on camera. Avoid sitting with a light source behind you — aim for even lighting without glare directly into the proctor camera.

Stay alone in the room

You must be the only person in the room while taking your online proctored exam.Also, remove or cover any personal items, photographs, or documents you don’t want to appear on camera.

Check your camera placement

Position both your computer webcam and any additional smartphone proctor camera so your face and workspace are clearly visible.

Once the proctoring system starts, you’ll see a preview showing what’s being recorded — adjust if needed to meet proctoring requirements.

What to avoid during a proctored test

To maintain the integrity of your proctored assessment, please avoid the following:

No extra devices

Don’t use a second screen, extra phone, tablet, or any other device — unless your smartphone is being used as a second proctor camera.

No headphones or headsets

For security, you’ll need to hear and be heard through your device’s speakers and mic, without any headsets or earpieces.

No talking, singing, or background noise

Keep your environment quiet and avoid speaking, as sounds will be monitored for irregularities by the proctoring platform.

No interruptions or leaving the room

Stay on camera for the entire webcam proctored test session. Breaks, including restroom visits, are not permitted once your test begins.

Instructions

Read the instructions before you start:

Final check before you start a proctored assessment

Read the instructions before you start: