There are several detailed requirements for taking an Architect Registration Examination® (ARE®) division through an online-proctored appointment. You can learn about all the requirements for testing through the ARE Guidelines and PSI’s online proctoring guide, but we’re sharing the top mistakes candidates make when testing remotely—and how to avoid them.
- Forgetting to schedule a test run. You must complete a free PSI test run to confirm that your setup meets the requirements for online testing before taking each online exam division. Even if you’ve already completed a test run for a previous division, your setup or system may have changed, which could impact your ability to complete your division. NCARB won’t issue refunds to candidates who are unable to complete an exam appointment due to technical or environmental issues if they did not complete a test run first. Find more tips for scheduling a test run.
- Leaving clutter in your testing space. Clutter doesn’t just include items on your desk, but belongings behind you as well—like items on bookshelves or in open doorways. You must remove or fully cover personal and household items, except for furniture. You can use bedsheets or other opaque materials to cover items, or even define a smaller testing area with bedsheets, curtains, or room dividers. Learn about the requirements for setting up your testing space.
- Using Wi-Fi instead of an Ethernet cable. One of the most reported technical issues candidates experience during their online-proctored appointment is a dropped internet connection. To avoid this potential problem, connect your internet through a wired Ethernet connection with a minimum of 3 Mbps of dedicated bandwidth.
- Using the wrong type of webcam. You cannot use a built-in webcam for an online-proctored exam appointment. Instead, use an external webcam to provide a full 360-degree view of your testing environment, including under your desk and below your monitor. The webcam must also autofocus so that your proctor can clearly see your ID and surroundings.
- Requesting a break incorrectly. Many candidates who are testing online forget to share the “On Break” screen with their proctor when they start their break. After your “On Break” screen appears, make sure you notify your proctor that you are starting a break and show them the “On Break” screen. Don’t forget that any items you have viewed will be locked after you return from your break. Get instructions on requesting a break during your exam appointment.
Be sure to reference the ARE Guidelines and PSI’s online proctoring guide before you schedule your next exam appointment—these documents share the most up-to-date information about testing requirements, setting up your space, and more.