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Introduction

Attendee Proctoring Onboarding is the pre-assessment verification process that ensures a secure and fair testing environment. This FAQ is specifically for Attendees (candidates/test takers) who are required to complete identity verification, Diagnostics, Secure Browser setup, and environment validation before starting the assessments.

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1. Before You Begin

Q1. What is Attendee Proctoring Onboarding? Attendee Proctoring Onboarding is a mandatory pre-exam process that verifies:
  • Your device compatibility
  • Your camera and microphone access
  • Your identity (ID verification and facial capture)
  • Your testing environment (if required)
  • Secure Browser installation (for certain assessments)
You must complete onboarding successfully before you begin your exam. Q2. How can I check if my device and browser are compatible? Before your scheduled exam:
  • Ensure you are using a supported browser:
    • Google Chrome (recommended)
    • Microsoft Edge
    • Mozilla Firefox
    • Safari (macOS)
  • Update your browser to the latest version.
  • Test your:
    • Camera
    • Microphone
    • Internet connection
For optimal performance, close unnecessary tabs and background applications before starting. Q3. What devices can I use for the assessment? You can typically use:
  • Desktop or Laptop (Recommended) – Windows or macOS
  • Supported browsers – Chrome, Edge, Firefox, or Safari on macOS (latest versions)
Mobile devices are not recommended unless explicitly permitted by your organization. Q4. What are the minimum system requirements? Your device needs a modern multi-core processor, enough free memory, a working webcam and microphone, and a stable internet connection. See Secure Browser – Platform Compatibility and System Requirements for the full list. Q5. Can I use a mobile phone or tablet for onboarding? Mobile devices are not recommended unless explicitly permitted. Most proctored assessments require a laptop or desktop. Q6. How early should I start the onboarding process? You should begin onboarding at least 15–20 minutes before your scheduled exam time. This allows sufficient time for Diagnostics, Secure Browser updates (if required), and identity verification. Q7. What should I keep ready before starting onboarding?
  • Government-issued photo ID
  • Stable internet connection
  • Fully charged laptop (or connected power source)
  • Quiet, well-lit room
  • Administrator access to install Secure Browser (if Secure Browser is required)
Q8. Can I use a public or office network? Yes, but ensure:
  • The network does not block camera or screen recording permissions
  • Firewall restrictions do not prevent Secure Browser installation
  • Bandwidth is stable
Note: If using a corporate network, check with IT in advance.
Q9. Can I change devices after starting onboarding? If you face technical issues during onboarding, you may switch to another supported device and restart the process. However, after completing onboarding, you should continue the exam on the same device, as changing devices may require re-verification. Q10. Do I need a secondary device for my exam? It depends on how your exam is set up. Some exams use your mobile phone as a secondary camera. If yours doesn’t, you’ll complete the environment check and ID capture on your laptop instead. Check your exam instructions to see what’s required.

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2. Secure Browser

Q1. What is a Secure Browser? A Secure Browser is a controlled testing browser used to ensure exam integrity. It restricts certain system and browser functions during the assessment. It creates a secure testing environment to prevent unauthorized activity. Q2. How do I install the Secure Browser? Some assessments require a Secure Browser for enhanced exam security. To install: For Windows:
  • Download the Secure Browser from the Microsoft Store or the official Talview download link provided in your assessment email.
  • Right-click the installer and select “Run as Administrator.”
  • Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.
  • When prompted, grant permissions for:
    • Camera
    • Microphone
    • Screen Recording
For macOS:
  • Download the .dmg file from Talview’s official download page.
  • Open the .dmg file.
  • Drag the Secure Browser application into your Applications folder.
  • Launch the application.
  • Allow permissions for:
    • Camera
    • Microphone
    • Screen Recording
NOTE:
  • Administrator privileges are required to install the Secure Browser.
  • Launch the Secure Browser 15–20 minutes before your scheduled test to allow time for updates and Diagnostics.
Q3. Why is Secure Browser required? The Secure Browser helps maintain a fair and secure assessment environment by preventing unauthorized actions and monitoring system activity during the exam. Q4. What if Secure Browser fails to launch?
  • Restart your device
  • Reinstall the Secure Browser
  • Ensure administrator access
  • Temporarily disable antivirus (if blocking installation)
Note: Uninstall any previous versions before you install the latest version of Secure browser.
Q5. Can I use other applications while using the Secure Browser? No. The Secure Browser restricts access to other applications and system functions during the assessment. Q6. Do I need to uninstall the Secure Browser after the exam? You can keep the Secure Browser installed if you have upcoming assessments scheduled. If you do not have any future exams, you may uninstall it from your system settings. Q7. Will Secure Browser access my personal files? No. The Secure Browser does not access personal files. It only restricts system functionality during the assessment session. Q8. Is the Secure Browser a virtual machine? No. The Secure Browser is a browser you install directly on your own Windows or macOS computer. It doesn’t create a separate virtual computer. Instead, it restricts access to other applications and system functions while your assessment is open. The Secure Browser isn’t supported on virtual machines, such as VMware or Citrix, so install and open it directly on your own laptop or desktop.

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3. Verification Process

Q1. Why is my verification taking longer than expected? Verification usually takes up to 10 minutes. While it’s in progress, you’ll see one of these statuses:
  • Verifying – Your ID, face capture, or environment check has been submitted and is being reviewed.
  • Pending – The review isn’t complete yet. You can start your exam once it’s approved
Verification may take longer if additional checks are being completed or if multiple test takers are being verified at the same time. Delays or retries can also occur due to:
  • Slow internet connection
  • Poor lighting
  • Blurry ID or facial image
Note: Please remain on the page and avoid refreshing repeatedly while the process completes.
Q2. My exam time has started, but I’m stuck on the verification page. What should I do? If your exam time has started and verification is still in progress:
  • Stay on the verification page and do not close the window.
  • Avoid repeated refresh attempts.
  • If verification is still pending after 10 minutes, use Need Help to contact the proctor and inform them that verification is pending.
Note: Do not exit the session unless instructed by the proctor or support.
Q3. What happens if my verification fails? If verification fails:
  • Reattempt facial capture or ID upload carefully.
  • Ensure proper lighting and camera positioning.
  • Follow on-screen instructions.
Q4. What documents are accepted for ID verification? Typically accepted documents include:
  • Government-issued ID card
  • Passport
  • Driver’s License
Note: If explicitly mentioned in your assessment instructions, a College/Institution ID may also be accepted. Refer to your assessment instructions for exact requirements.
Q5. What should I do if my face is not detected during verification?
  • Improve lighting
  • Remove hats or face coverings
  • Sit directly facing the camera
  • Ensure your face is centered in the frame
Q6. What is the Environment Check? You may be asked to rotate your camera briefly to show your surroundings. This confirms that no unauthorized materials or individuals are present. Q7. What happens if my ID gets rejected during verification? If your ID is rejected, you cannot proceed with the exam until a valid and clear ID is submitted. The system expects a high-quality image where all required details (photo, name, expiry date, etc.) are clearly visible. You will be prompted to retake and resubmit your ID with a clearer image. Q8. Why am I asked to show my surroundings? This ensures:
  • No unauthorized materials are present
  • No other individuals are assisting you
  • The environment meets exam integrity standards

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4. During the Exam

Q1. Am I allowed to take a break during the exam? Break permissions depend on how your organization has configured the assessment.
  • If breaks are allowed, you will see a Pause/Break option.
  • If breaks are not allowed:
    • Leaving the screen may trigger proctoring alerts.
    • The session may be flagged.
    • Your exam may be automatically submitted or terminated.
Note: This applies to all breaks, including toilet breaks and breaks between parts of a multi-part exam.
When you return from a break, your exam resumes. You don’t need to repeat face verification or the Environment Check, and break time doesn’t count against your exam time.
Q2. My internet connection is stable, but my screen is frozen. How can I fix this? If your screen freezes:
  • Wait a few seconds to see if it resumes.
  • Close unnecessary background applications.
  • Refresh the page once.
  • Restart the Secure Browser if required.
  • Rejoin using the original assessment link.
Note: Avoid repeated refresh attempts, as this may disrupt the session.
Q3. What should I do if I accidentally close the exam window? If you accidentally close:
  • Reopen the original assessment link immediately.
  • Log back in using your registered credentials.
  • Continue the assessment (if allowed by configuration).
Note: If you cannot resume, click Need Help to contact support right away.
Q4. What actions can trigger proctoring alerts?
  • Switching browser tabs
  • Opening other applications
  • Leaving the camera frame
  • Disconnecting camera or microphone
  • Connecting additional devices
Note: These alerts may be reviewed by Alvy (AI Proctoring Agent) or a human proctor. You can’t view these alerts or your session’s event log. If you believe an alert was raised in error, contact your exam administrator.
Q5. What happens if I lose internet connection during the exam?
  • Reconnect immediately
  • Reopen the original exam link
  • Resume the assessment (if allowed)
Prolonged disconnection may be flagged. Q6. What happens if I leave the camera frame briefly? Leaving the camera view may trigger a proctoring alert. Repeated or prolonged absence can lead to review or escalation. Q7. What happens if someone enters the room during my exam? If another person enters the room, it may trigger a warning or proctoring flag. Depending on your exam setup:
  • You may receive an on-screen warning, or
  • The incident may be flagged for review by a proctor or exam administrator.
To avoid issues, you must ask the other person to leave the exam environment and take the exam alone in a private room. Q8. How do I change the language in a proctored assessment? To change the language, go to the top-right corner of the onboarding page and click on the language icon. A small menu will appear where you can select your preferred language. Currently, the available language options are English and Spanish. Q9. Am I allowed to drink water during the exam? Yes, you are allowed to drink water during the exam. Preferably use a transparent water bottle with no content or written materials. Just make sure you remain visible in the camera view while doing so. Q10. What happens if I get disconnected during the exam? If you experience a disconnection, rejoin immediately using the provided session link and resume from where you left off, if your exam allows it. To minimize disruptions, we recommend using a stable wired connection if possible, closing unnecessary apps, keeping your device charged, and avoiding network changes mid-session. If you need further guidance, click Need Help to chat with a proctor. Q11. Can I connect my charger to the laptop during the exam? Yes, you can connect your charger to your laptop during the exam. In fact, we recommend keeping your device plugged in throughout the session to avoid any disruptions caused by a low battery or unexpected shutdown. Just make sure that plugging in the charger doesn’t cause you to move out of the camera’s view or create prolonged movement away from the screen, as this could trigger a flag. Q12. What should I do if I get flagged during the exam? If you receive a flag during the exam, don’t panic. First, try clicking Need Help to chat with a proctor to understand what triggered the flag and get guidance. If you believe the flag was raised in error and you haven’t violated any rules, simply continue with your exam as normal. Flags are reviewed after the session, and any unintentional triggers are taken into account during the review process. You can’t view your flags or your session’s event log. If you’d like to dispute a flag or request a review after your exam, contact your exam administrator. The most important thing is to stay calm, keep your focus, and complete the exam. Q13. Can I wear a smartwatch or other wearable during my exam? No. Smartwatches, fitness bands, and other smart wearables are not allowed during a proctored exam. Remove them before your exam begins. Q14. Can I mute my microphone, turn off my camera, or stop sharing my screen during the exam? No. Your camera, microphone, and screen share must stay on for the entire exam. If you turn off your camera or microphone, or stop sharing your screen, it’s flagged and your exam screen is blocked until you turn it back on. The exam and timer keep running while the screen is blocked, so turn it back on right away.

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5. Device Permissions

Q1. What permissions do I need to allow? You must allow:
  • Camera access – for facial verification and proctoring
  • Microphone access – for monitoring (if required)
  • Screen access – for secure assessments
  • Secure Browser permissions (if applicable)
When prompted by your browser, click “Allow”. Q2. What if I accidentally denied camera or microphone permissions? If you denied permissions:
  • Click the lock icon in the browser address bar.
  • Go to Site Settings.
  • Set Camera and Microphone to Allow.
  • Refresh the page.
Complete this before proceeding with verification. Q3. Why is screen recording permission required? Screen recording permission is required to monitor on-screen activity during the assessment. This helps maintain exam integrity and may be used for session review or auditing, if required by your organization’s proctoring configuration. Q4. What if my operating system blocks screen recording permission? On macOS:
  • Go to System Settings → Privacy & Security → Screen Recording
  • Enable access for Secure Browser
  • Restart the browser
On Windows: Ensure required permissions (camera, microphone, screen recording)are granted during installation.

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6. Troubleshooting & Support

Q1. How can I raise a support ticket? To contact support:
  • Click the Help/Support option on the onboarding or assessment page.
  • Provide:
    • Your registered email ID
    • Assessment name
    • Detailed description of the issue
    • Screenshots (if available)
  • Submit the request.
Note: You may also use the support contact information provided in your invitation email.
Q2. I received a browser or OS compatibility error. What should I do? If you see a compatibility error:
  • Switch to Chrome, Edge, Firefox, or Safari on macOS (latest version).
  • Update your browser.
  • Use a supported operating system.
  • Try a different laptop or desktop device.
If you do not have access to a supported device, inform your administrator immediately. Q3. What should I do if I continue to face technical issues? If troubleshooting does not resolve the issue:
  • Contact support immediately.
  • Stay logged in until advised otherwise.
  • Capture screenshots (if possible).
Note: Early reporting helps minimize disruption and protects your assessment attempt.
Q4. Will my exam time be compensated if I face technical issues? Time adjustments depend on your organization’s policy. Always report issues immediately to ensure they are documented. Q5. Can I reschedule my exam due to technical issues? Rescheduling rules, such as whether you can reschedule, the deadline, and any fees, are set by your exam provider. If a technical issue stops you from taking your exam:
  1. Report the issue right away using Need Help during the session, or by raising a support ticket, so it’s documented.
  2. Contact your exam administrator to ask about rescheduling.
If your exam allows you to reschedule from the booking page, see Candidate FAQs - Scheduling & Payments.