Online proctored exams
Why take an online proctored exam?
Online proctored exams are a convenient way to earn certifications from your home or office rather than a test center. You’ll save travel time and the stress of finding the test center on exam day. Microsoft partners with Pearson VUE to deliver certification exams through online proctoring.
Visit: About online exams with Pearson VUE.
Before registering for an online proctored exam
Online proctored exams are convenient, but there are some technical requirements. It’s a good idea to review the process thoroughly before scheduling.
- Complete the system test on the computer you’ll be using to take the exam. If your system doesn’t pass the system test, it will likely fail during the exam. We recommend taking the exam at a test center instead.
- Take a clear photo of your identification documents. This step is required for validating your identity at the time of testing. If the photo isn’t clear, the proctor won’t allow you to take the test. There are no exceptions to this rule.
- Review the testing protocol to know what to expect during the exam. Understand the video and audio monitoring requirements. If you have concerns about the online testing protocol, we recommend that you schedule your exam at a test center.
- We’re committed to ensuring everyone who’s interested in taking Microsoft Certifications can do so in a way that’s fair and accurately reflects their skills. If you use assistive technologies, you must request an accommodation to use them during the exam.
To register for an online proctored exam, visit: Register and schedule an exam.
How to start an online proctored exam
We recommend logging in 15 minutes early to start the check-in process.
- Sign into Microsoft Learn with the personal Microsoft account (MSA) associated with your Microsoft certification profile.
- Click on your photo avatar and select “Profile.”
- Select “Certifications” in the profile navigation menu.
- Your appointments will be listed at the top of the screen. Find the exam appointment you wish to start and select the “Go to the exam” button on the appointment screen.
- Follow the on-screen instructions and download and install the secure browser. For more details, visit: About online exams with Pearson VUE.
Frequently asked questions about online proctored exams
How do I request exam accommodations?
Visit: Request accommodations.
Can I reschedule or cancel my exam?
Visit: Exam reschedule and cancellation policy.
What type of identification is required during the check-in process?
Visit: About online exams with Pearson VUE.
How do I change my legal name on my Microsoft Certification profile?
Visit: Manage your certification profile.
Where can I find a list of exam policies?
Visit: Policies and agreement.
After my exam has launched and I am assigned a proctor, how long do I have to complete the exam?
Visit: Exam duration and question types.
What happens after I launch the online proctored exam?
You can expect to submit a photo of your ID and do a room scan. Once complete, you will be assigned a proctor. For more information, visit: About online exams with Pearson VUE.
Can I take a break during an online proctored exam?
Yes. We’ve added 5 minutes to our exams to allow for unscheduled breaks that don’t need to be requested in advance. Visit: Unscheduled breaks on exams. If you need more than 5 minutes for breaks, request additional time through our accommodation process.
If I'm taking multiple exams for a certification, do I need to choose a single exam delivery method for all exams?
No, you may mix and match delivery methods (online proctored or in person at a testing center).
Are online exams more difficult than exams taken at test centers?
No, the exams are of equal difficulty no matter which method you choose. Consider which option makes you feel most comfortable during the exam.
May I take notes during my online proctored exam?
Yes, you can take notes during your online exam by using the whiteboard feature. You can access the whiteboard during your exam by selecting the eraser icon at the top of the screen. (You may not use an external whiteboard or pen and paper.) If you’d like to learn more or practice using it, visit: Whiteboard // OnVUE // Pearson VUE.
Are online proctored exams as secure as a test center?
We're committed to protecting the integrity of our exams, regardless of delivery method. When you take an online exam, you’ll first install a secure browser that enforces rigorous safeguards throughout the process. In addition, a proctor monitors you throughout the exam via webcam and microphone.
What happens to candidates caught cheating?
We review video of the exam process in cases where we suspect cheating. We're pretty good at detecting cheating, so we don't recommend it—we decertify cheaters, remove their certifications, and ban them from taking future exams.
Are online proctored exams available in multiple languages?
Yes, although proctors may not speak those languages. So, while the exam content may be available in various languages, proctoring and support is generally only available in English or Japanese (availability limited). To read more about language support during online exams, visit: About online exams with Pearson VUE.
If I have technical issues before, during, or after the online proctored exam, who do I contact?
If you run into problems before or after the exam, contact certification support. For questions during your Pearson VUE exam, use Pearson OnVUE Support live chat to contact Pearson VUE’s customer service team. (Do not use your mobile phone during an exam.)
What if my phone rings during the exam? Can I answer it?
If your phone rings during the exam, limit your interaction to identifying the caller. If a proctor is contacting you, the number will display as 617-379-0635, and/or caller ID may identify the number as Pearson VUE. If this number or contact appears, please answer the call.
Any mobile phone use other than engaging with a proctor is strictly prohibited and will result in your exam being revoked. If your phone rings and the call is not from Pearson VUE, don’t answer it.
If you need to silence your phone after the exam has begun, first alert a proctor, then wait for their acknowledgement to ensure they understand you’re accessing your phone only to silence notifications. Once you’ve silenced your phone, move it out of arm’s reach.
Pearson VUE will not text you during your exam. If you receive a text notification, ignore the notification, and continue testing. If an alarm sounds on your phone, first alert a proctor, then wait for their acknowledgement to ensure they understand you’re accessing your phone only to silence the alarm. Once you’ve done so, move your phone out of arm’s reach.