What to Expect during your IT Credentialing Exam

Congratulations on completing your course and preparing to take your credentialling exam. Or maybe you’re looking at taking a course. Let’s discuss what happens after you’ve done all the hard work to complete and pass. The number one question is: “What is the Testing Process?”

What you can expect when testing differs slightly depending on the course you took and the method of testing the training partner utilizes. As a former proctor with Pearson Vue (2007-2008) and a current CTC Certified Proctor, I can tell you most of the experience and process is the same.

Taking your Test Remote?

It is better to prep your test area ahead of time, in my experience it goes like this:

The proctor will need to verify that you are in a room alone by having you pan the area with your webcam. You will also have to show them your work surface to verify there are no open books, papers, or other study materials. You will need to silence your cell phone and put it across the room from your testing area. Other than the web conferencing program utilized to take your exam, make sure all programs and apps are closed. Once you log into the testing site, you may be prompted to give remote control of your computer to the proctor so they can type in their password to access your exam session. You are not permitted to leave the room for the duration of the exam.

It is important to keep in mind that all exams are timed. While testing, do not take too much time on any one question. Most exams have a “Review” button. If you find yourself stuck on a particular question, by the process of elimination, mark your best guess then click the Review button. NEVER leave a question unanswered. Questions without a response will automatically count against you. Once you have completed all the questions, you will have an opportunity to review all marked questions. (If time permits) Which brings me to my next point.

Always keep an eye on your timer. Depending on the length of your exam and the number of questions, it is BEST PRACTICE to give yourself 10 to 15 minutes to review all marked questions.

Taking your Test On-Site?

The number one thing to remember is that you are not permitted to bring anything into the testing room. The facility I worked at provided lockers to place personal items such as bags, coats, and keys. Before the exam begins the proctor will give everyone a chance to go to the restroom. Once everyone is seated and the exam begins, you will not be allowed to leave the testing room. If you do leave the room your exam will be terminated. (There were exams that I proctored that were 4 hours long. During those exams there were scheduled breaks built into the exam.)

The rest of the advice remains the same. Always give an answer to every question. Be mindful of your time and BREATHE.

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