Remote invigilation FAQs for April 2025 exam candidates

Preparing for a remotely invigilated exam

 

What equipment do I need to sit an exam?

You will need a laptop or computer that meets our minimum technical requirements.

Candidates are permitted to use one screen only.

Candidates are permitted to connect a single monitor to a laptop device. However, the laptop must be closed for the duration of the exam and an external webcam will be required.

 

What software do I need to sit an exam?

To connect to the exam platform, you will need to download the ‘Guardian Browser’ to your laptop or computer.

You will also need Microsoft Word, Excel and/or R Studio. Information on the software required can be found in the Examinations Handbook

 

What is the ‘Guardian Browser’?

The Guardian Browser is a custom developed web browser, designed to secure the virtual environment of the exam candidate.

 

Will the ‘Guardian Browser’ forcibly lock the screen to one browser?

No, the Guardian Browser does not lock the candidate’s screen to one browser. Candidates will be able to navigate outside the Guardian Browser to other programs on their device e.g. Excel, Word.

For Candidates sitting the CS1B or CS2B exam, it will also be possible to launch the ‘R’ help pages. These will open in your default browser e.g. Chrome. This will be permitted within the Exam Rules.

Candidate activity will be monitored during the exams to detect any unauthorised activity, which may result in disqualification from the exam and possible future exam booking ban – depending on the severity of the breach.

 

Can I test my equipment is exam ready?

You can test that your computer is exam ready by using the ‘try it now’ function.

 

Can I use a work laptop?

Yes, but the ‘Guardian browser’ must be downloaded and permitted within your employers' infrastructure.

See our exam developments webpage for more information and to download the link.

 

I can’t download the ‘Guardian Browser’, what can I do?

If you are planning to use a work laptop you may find there are restrictions that prevent you from downloading the ‘Guardian Browser’, if so, please contact your employer’s IT department for further support.

If you are using your own device, please seek support from a suitably qualified IT specialist.

 

Can I sit the exam without using the ‘Guardian Browser’?

No – unfortunately, you will not be able to sit your exam without the ‘Guardian Browser’.

 

How will I log in to the exam?

Candidates will continue to log into the exam platform. You can find a guide to logging in to the exam system in our Examinations Handbook. Once logged in, candidates will launch and connect to the remote invigilation system. Candidates must connect to the remote invigilation system before they can access their exam paper.

 

Can I use my mobile phone to connect to the internet?

Mobile hotpots and tethering are unlikely to provide a stable enough connection.

 

What will happen during a remotely invigilated exam?

On exam day you will need to log in to the exam platform and open the ‘Guardian Browser’. You will be provided with the required URLs in your exam joining instructions.

Once connected, you will need to accept the Remote invigilation Terms and Conditions. You will then be taken through a series of automated steps to verify your identity. This is referred to as ‘Exam Onboarding’.

You will be required to:

  • present photographic ID
  • connect your webcam and audio
  • share your computer screen

Your audio, video and screen will be recorded for the duration of the exam. There is no live proctor watching you during your exam.

If you need technical support, you can use the ‘Chat’ function within the ‘Guardian Browser’. Please note the ‘Chat’ function can only support with basic IT queries about connecting to the proctoring system. They cannot support on any exam related matters.

Information on exam support can be found in the Examinations Handbook.

 

Is there an alternative to remote invigilation?

To assure the security and integrity of IFoA exams, all exams will be remotely invigilated from April 2025.

 

Is there a back-up plan should there be an issue on exam day with any part of the remote invigilation process or Guardian Browser?

Candidates are responsible for ensuring their equipment meets the minimum technical requirements. If a candidate experiences issues on exam day, they can use the ‘chat’ function within Guardian Browser or call the IFoA Assessment Delivery Team. If a technical issue cannot be resolved and a candidate cannot access the exam there will be no alterative exam sitting.

If there is a technical failure resulting from an error or system failure, caused by the IFoA or any third-party supplier, relevant business continuity plans will be executed.

 

Can I see a copy of the proctoring compliance and privacy policy?

Yes, please follow these links to view the Compliance and Privacy policy of our remote invigilation provider. 

 

Where will my data be stored and who will have access to it?

All data will be stored in secure EU based servers.

Recordings will be viewed by trained invigilators and IFoA executive staff only.

Images of photographic ID will be retained for 7 working days.

Exam recordings will be retained for 12 months.

 

Can I connect using a virtual desktop?

No – you are not able to connect to the system in a virtual desktop environment.

 

Will all exams start at the same time?

Yes, each exam subject will have one single start time.

Exams will be held in UK time.

Details around the exam start time will be released shortly.

 

Will the length of time given for each exam change with the introduction of RI?

No, the exam length will remain the same.

 

I have a medical condition which requires me to need more flexibility around the breaks – can this be taken into consideration?

We understand that candidates may perform certain actions or make use of specific equipment as a result of a medical condition. To ensure we can continue to support you during exams it may be necessary to apply for a formal access arrangement.

We have published guidance and advice on what is/isn’t permitted on our access arrangements webpage.

For our existing members with long term access arrangements already approved and in place we will be in contact to review the arrangements

 

Will I be able to experience the new browser and process for remote invigilation prior to sitting actual exams?

Yes, the IFoA is running three practice sessions in January and February 2025. For full details including dates, what’s involved, how to register and sign-up deadlines, see: Remote invigilation practice exam sessions – book now

For anyone unable to attend, a recorded run-through of the exam experience will be launched in January.

 

Will the exam system include a timer/clock/alarm?

There is no countdown clock or timer on the exam platform or remote invigilation system.

 

Will I need to remove additional tech from the room I am sitting in? Such as additional monitors which are not being used for the exam.

No, you do not need to remove additional tech as long as any other devices are not in use.

For example, if you have a monitor in the background of the room where you intend to take the exam, please ensure it is switched off.

 

Can I use my phone as a webcam?

No, using a mobile phone as a webcam is not permitted. For external webcam specifications, please see our technical requirements webpage.

 

My built-in webcam on my laptop has low image quality. Will this affect my exam sitting?

Candidates must ensure that the device chosen to complete their exam meets all the exam system technical requirements.

For details on our technical requirements, please see our technical requirements webpage.

 

Are mobile hotspots prohibited or simply discouraged?

Mobile hotspots and tethering are not supported. You will be unable to sit your exam with this chosen internet option.

Please see all the technical requirements for our new exam system on our technical requirements webpage.

Exam rules and guidelines

 

What form of photo ID will be accepted?

A valid form of photographic ID will need to be shown to the webcam clearly at the start of the exam, candidates should ensure that they have their ID available and to hand before starting ‘Exam Onboarding’.

Only government issued photo ID will be accepted, for example driving licence, passport.

 

What if my assumed name is different from my given name? Do I need to update my details with IFoA to reflect any middle names?

The details we hold for you must match your government issued photo ID.

Candidates will need to update their details in their member portal to ensure ID verification is accepted.
Non-members will need to contact memberservices@actuaries.org.uk to make these changes.

 

Can I use two monitors?

No, candidates are permitted one screen only.

Candidates are permitted to connect a single monitor to a laptop device. However, the laptop screen must be closed for the duration of the exam and an external webcam will therefore be required. Depending on your laptop, an external microphone may also be required.

 

I will be sitting my exam at my shared workplace, are others permitted to be in the room?

No, candidates must be alone for the duration of the exam.

 

Can I still refer to online resources during the exam?

No – while the exams will be closed book/closed web. There will be some exceptions, we will share more information soon.

 

Can I use scrap paper?

Yes, two sheets of A4 paper.

 

Can I use a calculator during the exam?

Candidates can use calculators during their exam. There is no specific make or model a candidate must use.

Candidates are also permitted to use excel for calculation questions.

Candidates must not use calculators on mobile devices.

 

Can I talk out loud?

Talking is not permitted during an exam. Accidental mouthing / mumbling will be reviewed.

 

Can I have a pet in the room?

Pets are permitted in the exam room so long as they do not cause sound or visual disruption to your exam recording.

 

Can I take a bathroom break?

Candidates will be permitted two five-minute breaks during exams. You can leave the room to take your allotted breaks.

Breaks cannot be taken in the first 30 minutes of the exam.

To request the break, candidates must speak clearly to their camera so this can be heard on the exam recording.

For further information on access arrangements, how to apply and what evidence is required to support your application, please see: access arrangements.

 

Will I be required to record my break?

Your webcam, audio and screen share should continue recording uninterrupted during the permitted breaks. You do not have to take your recording device with you.

 

Can I eat/drink?

Drinks and snacks are permitted. For example, energy bars or a piece of fruit. Candidates should be mindful of noise while eating as this could impact the exam recording.

 

What happens if someone comes into my exam room?

Candidates should be in a private room, with a closeable, preferably lockable, door. If a person enters the exam room accidentally and does not interact with the candidate, the incident will be flagged to the IFoA but is unlikely to be investigated further. Any deliberate interaction with a third party will in breach of the Assessment Regulations.

 

Can I listen to music or have background noise?

No – Noise is not permitted unless it is part of an approved access arrangement.

 

What if there is external noise outside my control, for example roadworks?

If your exam in unexpectedly impacted due to circumstances beyond your control, candidates should consider applying for mitigating circumstances.

 

Will there be any live warnings during an exam?

No, there is no live proctor. Your exam is recorded and reviewed after completion.

 

Can I wear ear plugs?

No, candidates are not permitted to wear ear plugs, headphones or earbuds. Unless it is part of an approved access arrangement.

 

Can I wear a headset with microphone?

No, this is not permitted.

 

Can I use a timer / watch to keep track of time?

Candidates may use analogue or digital stop watches, timers or clocks only.

Smart watches, tablets, or mobile phone timers are not permitted.

 

Can I move/stretch?

You can stretch and move at your exam desk while remaining in view of the camera. You are not permitted to leave view of the camera unless you are taking a permitted break.

 

How will eye movements be assessed? Do we need to look at the screen the whole time?

There is no automatic tracking of eye movement. During the post- exam review, reviewers will consider if any suspicious activity has occurred and flag this to the IFoA for further consideration.

 

Using my laptop for a long period of time can induce my eye strain and give me headaches. What should I do?

Access arrangements can be made for those with medical conditions. To find out if you are eligible to apply and read the guidance, please see: access arrangements.

 

Are we allowed to split screens across the one monitor?

Yes, candidates will be able to use the split screen functionality on their one monitor.

Study support

 

Will the types of questions change with the re-introduction of closed book?

Yes, questions may be worded differently to reflect a closed book environment. However, each paper has a quality assurance process that ensures a well-prepared candidate can demonstrate their competence without access to core reading, study notes or other resources.

Examiners always aim to create exam papers that will enable candidates to demonstrate their competence and understanding of the subject material.

 

What past papers should I now use to support my preparations for the exams – are pre-2020 now more suitable?

2020-2024 papers delivered under open-book rules are still a valuable study resource as they more closely reflect the current syllabus objectives. Attempting these papers under closed book conditions would still be a useful revision exercise.

Pre-2020 papers were delivered under closed-book rules but may no longer align completely with the current syllabus, so students are advised to review the syllabus before using earlier papers as a revision resource.

 

For exams using R- will students still have access to existing software including the help function?

Yes

Related resources

Preparing for the April 2025 exam session

All the information and resources you’ll need as we adopt more modern and digital methods of assessment.
Learn more

Exam system technical requirements

All the technical requirements for our new exam system
Learn more

Access arrangements

Key information about access arrangements and how to apply
Access arrangements