1.4 Test-Day Environment, Navigation & Examity Security

Test-Day Environment, Navigation & Examity Security

Because Password Skills Plus is an officially accredited academic English examination accepted for university entry and Student Visa sponsorship, test-day security is paramount. The integrity of every test score depends on strict adherence to technical prerequisites, physical workspace standards, and live proctoring protocols enforced by Examity.

Failing to meet environment standards or violating test interface rules can result in immediate session termination, score cancellation, or formal academic disqualification. Candidates must prepare both their technical equipment and physical surroundings well before their scheduled exam appointment.

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Technical Hardware and Software Requirements

Candidates must ensure their computer hardware and software meet the mandatory specifications required by ELT and Examity prior to launching the exam:

CRITICAL AUDIO RULE: Bluetooth or wired headsets, headphones, and earbuds are strictly forbidden during Password Skills Plus testing unless an official medical accessibility accommodation has been formally approved in writing by ELT prior to test day. Candidates must play listening audio through computer speakers and speak into an open microphone.

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Examity Live Proctoring Security Protocols

Upon clicking the test launch link, candidates are connected live to an Examity proctor who conducts a three-stage security verification process:

1. Identity Verification

The candidate must present a valid, unexpired, original government-issued photo ID (such as an international passport or national ID card) directly to the webcam. The proctor visually verifies that the name on the ID matches the registered candidate profile and confirms facial identity.

2. Environmental 360-Degree Room Inspection

The proctor instructs the candidate to pick up their webcam or rotate their laptop 360 degrees to scan the physical room. The scan must clearly show:

• The entire desk surface and workspace area underneath the desk.
• All four walls of the room, confirming no whiteboards, posters with text, or unauthorized materials are visible.
• That the room door is closed and no other person or pet is present in the room.

3. System and Screen Check

The proctor verifies via screen-sharing software that all secondary monitors are unplugged, background applications (such as Skype, Zoom, WhatsApp, or screen recorders) are fully closed, and pop-up blockers permit the exam window.

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Test Interface Mechanics and Navigation Rules

The Password Skills Plus test interface enforces strict navigation constraints designed to ensure standardized conditions for all test-takers:

Module Timers

Each module features a prominent countdown timer at the top of the screen. The timer runs continuously once the module begins and cannot be paused for any reason. When the module timer reaches 00:00, the system automatically saves all completed responses, locks the module, and transitions to the next component.

Audio Playback Restrictions in Listening

In the Listening module, audio recordings play automatically according to predefined task rules (typically twice per recording). Candidates cannot pause, rewind, or fast-forward audio tracks. It is essential to read item questions during the allocated preparation time before audio playback begins.

Item Navigation Within Modules

Within the Reading module and individual Listening sections, candidates can use "Next" and "Previous" buttons to review and modify their answers prior to module submission. However, once a module is submitted—or its timer expires—candidates cannot return to previously completed modules.

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Security Violations, Disqualifications, and Flagged Results

Examity employs combined human proctor supervision and AI video analytics during the exam session. The following behaviors constitute serious security violations and will lead to immediate test termination and score invalidation:

• Looking away from the screen continuously or looking down toward your lap (suggesting mobile phone use).
• Speaking aloud during non-speaking modules (Reading, Writing, Listening).
• Leaving the camera view or standing up from your desk without proctor permission.
• Allowing another person to enter the room or speak to you during the exam.
• Utilizing dual monitors, screen-mirroring, or unauthorized background software.
• Having paper, pens, notebooks, or study guides on your desk surface.

Candidates whose test sessions are flagged for review by Examity will have their scores withheld pending formal security investigation by the ELT Academic Standards Board.