How to prepare for a proctored assessment:
- Ensure you have the correct equipment (desktop or laptop computer, microphone, webcam). A detailed list of requirements is here.
- Download the Guardian Browser:
Download the Guardian Secure Proctoring Browser
If you receive a firewall notification like this one, ensure the boxes are checked and “Allow access”.
- Test your equipment.
- Schedule your assessment time. Note that you might be required to schedule at least 72 hours in advance so check the email containing your login details.
- Check what resources you are allowed to have. This information should be included in the email you were sent with your Testgrid login details.
- Have your I.D. ready.
- Five minutes before your scheduled time, login to Testgrid and start the assessment. Once you connect with your proctor, they will run through some checks and then you can begin. You can read about this in more detail here.
- Remember, your proctor will not interact with you from this point unless you are doing something that is not permitted.
What equipment will I need?
You will need to use a desktop or laptop computer with a stable internet connection, a webcam and a microphone. Chromebooks, tablets and smartphones can not be used to take a proctored assessment.
Here is a detailed list of requirements, including non-compatible equipment.
TYPE | MINIMUM | RECOMMENDED |
Internet Connection | Wifi Connection | Wired Connection |
PC Users | Windows 10 (Windows 10 S mode is not supported) The Guardian browser requires 64-bit Windows 10 | Windows 10 (10 S mode is not supported) |
Mac Users | MacOS 10.13 (Oldest Still Maintained Version) | MacOS 10.15 |
CPU | more than 2 core CPU less than 85% CPU Usage | more than 4 core CPU less than 50% CPU Usage |
Webcam | 640x480 resolution | 1280x720 resolution |
Internet Download Speed | 1 Mbps Note: Hotspots and tethering are not supported due to stability issues | 12 Mbps |
Internet Upload Speed | 1 Mbps | 3 Mbps |
RAM | 4 GB less than 95% Ram Usage | 16 GB less than 70% Usage |
Connectivity Ports | 1935, 843, 80, 443, 61613, UDP/TCP | 1935, 843, 80, 443, 61613, UDP/TCP |
Screen Resolution | 1366 x 768 | 1920 x 1080 and above |
Additional Requirements:
- A functioning microphone (some web cameras have them built-in)
- Not Supported:
- Google Chromebooks
- Tablets (Nexus, iPad, Tab, Note, etc.)
- Smartphones
- Linux operating systems
- Windows 10 in S mode or Surface RT
- No running inside a virtual machine. You will be asked to reconnect using your host operating system to take your exam
If you would like to test your equipment, please click here.
You will need to download the Guardian browser before you take your assessment.
Restart your computer after downloading the browser.
What else do I need during the assessment?
One form of government-issued photo ID (i.e. driver’s license, passport, military ID, student ID, etc.)
Any materials authorized for use by your organisation (paper, pencil,calculator etc.) These will be listed in the email from Testgrid that contains your login information
A working webcam and microphone
A strong internet connection
A private room
A hard surface to work on