So you’re taking an online test...

PSI uses virtual lock-down browser technology with enhanced communication security and encryption. The lock-down browser restricts your ability to open and use additional windows or programs during the test session. Your personally identifiable information is always protected. PSI only has access to the webcam and audio on your computer until you close the online proctoring software application.

As part of the check-in process, you will be required to take a real-time video of your testing environment to ensure compliance and secure your workspace.

You can test in the convenience of your home, school, or office. Wherever you test, you should be in a walled room where you will not be disturbed. No one else is permitted in the room with you while you are testing.

You are required to present a valid, government-issued photo identification as part of the check-in process. Your identification must contain your full name and a recent, recognizable photo.

Please Note: Military identifications and credit cards are not accepted for online proctored tests.

Please review the System Requirements.

You will need to be able to install PSI’s Secure Browser on your computer to take the test. If you are on a corporate computer that does not allow program installation, you may want to take the test at home instead.

The check in process will take approximately 10-15 minutes. Your organization’s testing rules will provide guidance on being late.

You will be asked to take a video of your work area during the check-in process, which will be reviewed by a PSI proctor prior to test launch. Please ensure that you are in a well-lit room so that your workspace can be reviewed – artificial lighting is recommended.

• Please ensure that your desk space is clear and clean of any prohibited items. If you are taking a closed book test make sure that there are no notes or descriptions posted on the walls in the room, and, overall, no items or information in the room that could be considered cheating materials. Other items in the background, provided that they are not accessed during the test, are fine. For example, having books on a bookcase in the background is not a problem provided that you do not access them.

No. You may not receive any assistance from other individuals while taking the test, and you may not allow other individuals to see your computer screen when test questions are being presented.

The proctor cannot answer questions related to test content.

Test rules provide guidance for what is acceptable during your test. The proctor will use your webcam and on-screen chat to communicate with you during your test. Your test may be paused by the proctor or automatically by the testing platform to investigate suspicious actions or events during the test.

Examples of prohibited behavior may include, but are not limited to:

• Looking off the screen
• Mumbling or speaking aloud
• Using unauthorized materials as listed in the section below
• Interacting with third parties intentionally or unintentionally
• Leaving the circle of view of the webcam

The proctor will investigate the event and then release your test so that you may continue after re-accepting the terms and conditions. If you have any questions about the pause or release of your test, you can chat with your proctor directly.

Test rules provide guidance for what is acceptable during your test. Please make sure that you do not have access to any mobile device or electronic device during your test aside from the laptop or desktop on which you are taking the test.

Examples of items that may not be permitted in your test space during the online proctored test include:

• Reference materials, paper, notepads, or language dictionaries
• Calculators
• Any type of communication, surveillance or recording devices such as:
  • Mobile phones
  • Tablets
  • Smart watches or glasses
  • Headphones, AirPods, or any in-ear device
• Baggage of any kind, including handbags, purses, or briefcases
• Weapons
• Food or beverage
• Tobacco products or smoking equipment

Test rules provide guidance on what is acceptable during your test.

Yes. The entire test session is recorded, from when you check in to when you complete the test and close out of the online proctoring application.

Please Note: After completing the test, you must fully close the online proctoring application before leaving the view of the webcam. Leaving the view of your webcam for any reason or duration during the test may result in your test session being terminated, and your test results invalidated, even if you have already completed the test.

First of all, check that your device meets the minimum system requirements here. 

You should seek to take steps to minimize connectivity disruptions on test day, these could include any of the following: using a wired connection (vs. wireless), taking the test in a location close to the wireless router, ensuring no one else is using the wireless connection during the exam, etc.