What you'll need Online invigilation (proctoring)
Software and hardware
To take an exam with online invigilation, you'll need to download and install an additional browser (called Guardian) to your computer. You'll need admin rights on your device to do so. If you're using a device supplied by your place of work, it's likely the security settings won't allow you to use the Guardian browser. You'll need to find an alternative machine to use for your exam.
You'll also need equipment that meets a series of requirements, including your device’s operating system, minimum internet speed and access to a webcam, speakers and microphone. If you're using a laptop, it's likely that these are built in.
You won't be able to take the exam using a smartphone, tablet such as an iPad, a Chromebook or Linux machine.
ProctorU lists its full equipment requirements on its website.
The ProctorU website may encourage you to set up an account. You should not do this until you receive an email from us containing a link inviting you to set up your account.
If you need to buy additional equipment, there's a fund you can apply to for financial support. Funding is discretionary and there are eligibility criteria. Find out more at Study-related costs funding.
Headsets and earphones
You'll not be allowed to use headsets or earphones during the exam unless you have told us you need these as part of an adjustment based on a disability or health condition. Headsets and earphones are not allowed as we need to ensure you are not connected to someone who might be giving you information.
You'll need audio access during your exam using the microphone and speakers on your device.
If you need to tell us about a disability or health condition that might impact on your exam, see Adjustments to meet your needs.
Your workspace
It's important to set yourself up in a quiet room where you can take the exam without interruption. You should ensure children or anyone you care for are not present in the room and you've made arrangements for them to be looked after.
You should remove any materials that relate to the exam and there should be no one in the room with you unless this has been approved in advance by the University.
You're only allowed to use one display monitor to take your exam and should remove additional monitors. If you're using a laptop, the laptop screen is the only one you can use. You'll need to switch off TVs and you might be asked to cover them.
You must be sitting at a desk, table or other hard surface. You'll not be allowed to take your exam from an armchair, couch or bed, unless you have a reasonable adjustment agreed beforehand.
Your desk needs to be clear of books and any other material.
On the day of the exam live audio-visual capturing will be used to monitor your workspace. It's therefore recommended that you remove or cover any photographs of people that may be in the background as these will also be captured in the video recording. You should also ensure children or anyone you care for do not enter your workspace.
Equipment for handwritten answers
If your exam needs you to handwrite some of your answers, your module website will specify this and tell you what the process is and any equipment you need.
