**TL;DR** — Preparation for a proctored online exam breaks into two halves: 48 hours before (environment + tech) and 15 minutes before (checklist run). Most stressed test-takers fail the first half and blame the second.
Last updated: July 2026.
48 hours before
- Confirm the proctoring product — Honorlock, Proctorio, ProctorU, Respondus Monitor. Install any required extensions or the LockDown Browser now, not on exam day.
- Run the vendor's system check — every product offers a "test my setup" page. Do this on the actual computer, monitor, and internet connection you'll use.
- Photograph your ID — most proctors require a live ID scan. Have your driver's license or student ID clean and accessible.
- Room scan — most products ask you to pan the room with your webcam. Clear the desk, remove books, remove second monitors, unplug secondary devices.
- Test webcam + microphone — in the vendor's system check. Use built-in laptop hardware unless you know your external cam is compatible.
15 minutes before
- Bathroom break.
- Water in a clear cup, no bottle labels.
- All notifications silenced (macOS Do Not Disturb, Windows Focus Assist, phone Do Not Disturb, phone face-down in another room).
- Room lit from the front, not backlit.
- Restart your browser to clear memory.
- Close every application that isn't the exam browser.
- Warm hands — nervous hands mis-type answers.
During the exam
- Look at your monitor, not around the room. Every "eyes off screen" flag stacks against you.
- Read slowly. AI proctors flag "unusually fast completion" as much as slow completion.
- If Wi-Fi drops, don't panic — LockDown Browser and Honorlock auto-resume within 60 seconds.
- If a family member walks in, stay calm and finish the current question. The proctor will note the event; your instructor decides what it means.
The content half
Infrastructure buys you a fair shot. Content wins the grade. Our [online exam help](/services/online-exam-help) pairs you with a subject tutor for pre-exam prep.
**Sources**: Honorlock, Proctorio, ProctorU, Respondus student-preparation guides (2026); NASPA test-anxiety brief (2025).