Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about online proctored exams

How do I request exam accommodations?

Visit: Request accommodations.

Can I reschedule or cancel my exam?

Visit: Exam reschedule and cancellation policy.

Can you share the latest exam scheduling policy?

You can have a maximum of two Microsoft Certification exams scheduled at a time, either on the same day or on separate days through Pearson VUE. After you take (or cancel) one of these exams, you can register for another. Please note, there are no changes to exam scheduling through Certiport. Learn more about registering and scheduling an exam. 

What type of identification is required during the check-in process?

Visit: About online exams with Pearson VUE.

How do I change my legal name on my Microsoft Certification profile?

Visit: Manage your certification profile.

Where can I find a list of exam policies?

Visit: Policies and agreement.

After my exam has launched and I am assigned a proctor, how long do I have to complete the exam?

Visit: Exam duration and exam experience.

What happens after I launch the online proctored exam?

You can expect to submit a photo of your ID and do a room scan. Once complete, you will be assigned a proctor. For more information, visit: About online exams with Pearson VUE.

Can I take a break during an online proctored exam?

Yes. We’ve added 5 minutes to our exams to allow for unscheduled breaks that don’t need to be requested in advance. Visit Unscheduled breaks on exams. If you need more than 5 minutes for breaks, request additional time through our accommodation process.

If I'm taking multiple exams for a certification, do I need to choose a single exam delivery method for all exams?

No, you may mix and match delivery methods (online proctored or in person at a testing center).

Are online exams more difficult than exams taken at test centers?

No, the exams are of equal difficulty no matter which method you choose. Consider which option makes you feel most comfortable during the exam.

May I take notes during my online proctored exam?

Yes, you can take notes during your online exam by using the whiteboard feature. You can access the whiteboard during your exam by selecting the eraser icon at the top of the screen. (You may not use an external whiteboard or pen and paper.) If you’d like to learn more or practice using it, visit: Whiteboard // OnVUE // Pearson VUE.

Are online proctored exams as secure as a test center?

We're committed to protecting the integrity of our exams, regardless of delivery method. When you take an online exam, you’ll first install a secure browser that enforces rigorous safeguards throughout the process. In addition, a proctor monitors you throughout the exam via webcam and microphone.

What happens to candidates caught cheating?

We review video of the exam process in cases where we suspect cheating. We're pretty good at detecting cheating, so we don't recommend it—we decertify cheaters, remove their certifications, and ban them from taking future exams.

Are online proctored exams available in multiple languages?

Yes, although proctors may not speak those languages. So, while the exam content may be available in various languages, proctoring and support is generally only available in English or Japanese (availability limited). To read more about language support during online exams, visit: About online exams with Pearson VUE.

If I have technical issues before, during, or after the online proctored exam, who do I contact?

If you run into problems before or after the exam, contact certification support. For questions during your Pearson VUE exam, use Pearson OnVUE Support live chat to contact Pearson VUE’s customer service team. (Do not use your mobile phone during an exam.)

What if my phone rings during the exam? Can I answer it?

If your phone rings during the exam, limit your interaction to identifying the caller. If a proctor is contacting you, the number will display as 617-379-0635, and/or caller ID may identify the number as Pearson VUE. If this number or contact appears, please answer the call.

Any mobile phone use other than engaging with a proctor is strictly prohibited and will result in your exam being revoked. If your phone rings and the call is not from Pearson VUE, don’t answer it.

If you need to silence your phone after the exam has begun, first alert a proctor, then wait for their acknowledgement to ensure they understand you’re accessing your phone only to silence notifications. Once you’ve silenced your phone, move it out of arm’s reach.

Pearson VUE will not text you during your exam. If you receive a text notification, ignore the notification, and continue testing. If an alarm sounds on your phone, first alert a proctor, then wait for their acknowledgement to ensure they understand you’re accessing your phone only to silence the alarm. Once you’ve done so, move your phone out of arm’s reach.