Prepare for Your Test

Do You Need a Proctor?

A proctor is a person who watches you as you take your exams. The purpose of a proctor is to ensure exam security. Your instructor determines whether or not the exams in your class will require a proctor. Generally, your instructor will inform you at the beginning of the semester, or in the syllabus, if you need to have your exams proctored. If your exam asks for a password before you can access it, you need a proctor to administer that exam.

Campus Testing Centers
If you are in Utah, you can have your exams proctored at USU campus testing centers.
Find a Testing Center
USU Certified Proctors
If you live outside of Utah, or more than 20 miles from a USU campus, you will need to find a USU Certified Proctor near you.
Find a Certified Proctor

Before Taking Your Exam

  • Review the Student Testing Policies and Rules.
  • Know the correct date and times for your test. You can find out when your test will be administered by your instructor or course syllabus.
  • Make an appointment to take your exam. Schedule it before the end date and time; avoid waiting until the last day.
  • Plan plenty of time to take your test. Be aware of the Testing Center/Proctor hours. You will not be allowed to stay and finish your test after closing.
  • Bring you Student ID with you. The staff will ask to see your ID to verify who you are before the exam is given.
  • Electronic devices (e.g. cell phones, media players, watches, headphones etc.) are not allowed. Before entering the testing room, you must turn off your cell phone. Any use of a cell phone is strictly prohibited.
  • Restroom breaks are not allowed. 
  • Children are not allowed in the testing center and are not allowed to be unattended in USU facilities while the parent is testing.

There are individuals and companies outside of the University that try to exploit students in need of help by offering things like ‘essay writing help’, ‘practice exams’, or ‘free summaries and answers’. Please do not engage with these companies.

Checking-in with the Testing Center or Proctor

  1. Check-in at the front desk
  2. Present your photo ID (student ID, drivers license, military ID or passport are all accepted.)
  3. Have everything out that you will use to take your exam. All other materials must be put away.

Note: Testing center staff honor the instructor's literal written instructions. Students are responsible to clarify any issues involving test instructions, availability, or delivery with the instructor.