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Getting Ready for Your Automated Proctoring Exam

Nikki S. avatar
Written by Nikki S.
Updated over a week ago

Our goal is to make your testing experience smooth and stress-free! Here’s everything you need to know to get ready and succeed.

What is Automated Proctoring?

Automated proctoring uses technology—not a live human—to monitor your exam session. It:

  • Offers a flexible, secure, on-demand testing experience

  • Records your video, audio, and screen activity

  • Flags any unusual behavior for later review

  • Ensures academic integrity without live supervision


How to Prepare Ahead of Time

Check Your Technology

  • Use a laptop or desktop (Windows, Mac, or Chromebook)

  • Tablets and phones are not supported

  • Have a working webcam and microphone

  • You cannot use your phone as a webcam

Check Your Internet Connection

  • Minimum speed: 3 Mbps download / 1 Mbps upload

  • Take the exam close to your Wi-Fi router or use a wired connection

  • Keep your device charged or plugged in during the exam

Disable Sleep Mode

  • Windows: Settings > System > Power & Battery > Screen & Sleep

  • Mac: Apple Menu > System Settings > Lock Screen


Google Chrome Setup

Install Google Chrome

Download from: google.com/chrome

Update to the Latest Version

Visit: chrome://settings/help
Chrome will auto-check and prompt to relaunch if needed.
Automated Proctoring requires the latest version.

Enable Cookies in Chrome

To ensure the proctoring system works correctly:

  • Navigate to: chrome://settings/cookies

  • Make sure your settings match the example provided in the screenshot below
    ​(Typically, this means allowing sites to save and read cookie data)


Find a Good Testing Space

  • Choose a quiet, private location with good lighting and no distractions

  • Clear your workspace of papers, books, phones, smartwatches, or other unauthorized items

  • Use the restroom beforehand—leaving the camera during the exam will flag your session


Do a Practice Test (if available)

  • Take a practice exam to test your setup and get familiar with the process.


Important Testing Rules

  • Photo ID Required for identity verification

  • Room Scan may be required by your school Watch an example video

  • No earbuds, smartwatches, or recordable eyewear unless approved


Starting Your Exam

  • Access SmarterProctoring through your course

  • Follow prompts to:

    • Accept the terms of use

    • Install the Chrome Extension (if needed)

    • Close other programs

    • Stay in the exam window

  • Your webcam and screen will be recorded

  • Suspicious activity is flagged for instructor review

  • Password Support: Click "Inject Password" in the toolbar if needed


Accommodations

Need special arrangements for testing?
Contact your institution before the exam to request accommodations.


What to Do If You Run Into Issues

If you experience technical problems before or during your exam, help is always available:

Before Your Exam

During Onboarding or During the Exam

  • Click the Proctor Chat button in the SmarterProctoring toolbar at the top of your screen.

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