Supervised online exams
Exams are applied where the supervision of a final assessment is required for accreditation by an external body, or for course completion.
There may be other circumstances approved, as required, with endorsement from senior Faculty teaching staff. In all these cases, supervision is mandatory. Supervision aims to ensure that the correct student sits the exam, complies with exam rules and conditions, does their own work and is therefore deserving of accreditation.
Information about the type of assessment for each of your units will be provided in the unit site in CloudDeakin, and any questions in this regard should be directed to your Unit Chair.
CloudDeakin Quiz / Integrity Advocate exams
You must ensure you are meeting the following requirements as a minimum standard:
| Category | Minimum requirements |
|---|---|
| Operating system | Windows Accepted browsers: Chrome, Edge MacOS Accepted browser: Chrome |
| RAM | 4GB |
| Internet speed | 3 Mbps upload/download |
| Webcam | Built-in or external |
Refer to the Deakin computing requirements for further information on device minimum standards.
You will sit the exam online using your own computer while being supervised via webcam. You and your screen are recorded through automated, recorded supervision.
- At all times you must follow the exam rules and conditions.
- You must follow the directions given by the exam supervision technology.
- You will complete an exam using CloudDeakin Quiz.
- You will be supervised via webcam through Integrity Advocate automated and recorded supervision.
- Exams may have some restrictions on what you can access.
- It is your responsibility to check your unit site to confirm what resources are allowable for your exam.
Check the Examination section under the Content menu in your unit site for further information.
Supervised online exam rules
| Rule | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Compliance | You must start your exam at the time shown in CloudDeakin. Exams commenced late may not be marked. You must not capture, record, store, share or print exam content or questions. You must not access tools that allow online collaboration including email, discussion boards, online forums or any other applications that allow real-time information sharing, unless explicit approval has been provided for use as part of the exam instructions. Shared document platforms such as OneDrive, GoogleDocs, OneNote etc., may only be accessed for reference materials if they are an allowable resource for the exam, and must not be used for collaboration purposes. You are expected to act with academic integrity in accordance with the Deakin student academic integrity policy and procedure. Exam recordings may be used as evidence if a breach of academic integrity is suspected. |
| Original answers | Copy and paste is not allowed. Your answers must be original (including when/if referencing study material). |
| Collaboration | You must stay in view of the webcam at all times. You must work alone. You must not get help from peers and others (unless otherwise outlined in the exam instructions). You must not communicate with any other student or unauthorised person during the exam. |
| Breaks | Bathroom breaks are allowed but should be kept to a minimum and any absence kept under 5 minutes. Authorised rest or medical breaks are allowed by prior approval from the Disability Resource Centre. |
| Required identification | Bring your Deakin Student Card or another form of approved photo identification, such as a driver's licence, passport, or national identity card. |
Materials permitted during the exam
| Material | Additional information |
|---|---|
| Hard-copy documents | Hard copy documents, including text books, may only be allowed if they are an allowable resource for the exam. |
| Digital resources | Digital resources including library reference material and unit site resources may only be accessed if they are an allowable resource for the exam. If your exam allows access to reference material, other electronic materials including notes, online resources and electronic texts must be pre-prepared (no internet searching is allowed) and either bookmarked in the browser or stored on the computer you will use for your exam - other devices are not allowed. |
| Applications | You can use applications such as Word and PowerPoint only for accessing pre-prepared reference material, if they are an allowable resource for the exam. But you must not use them for any other purpose unless specified in the exam instructions. Applications such as Excel may also be used for calculations, if it is an allowable resource for the exam. Where an application includes AI functionality, you must not access or use those AI features during the exam. |
| Calculators | Calculators (handheld and online) may only be used if they are an allowable resource for the exam. If using an online calculator, it should be bookmarked in your browser. Only devices whose primary function is that of a calculator are permitted for use (phones/tablets/iPads etc must not be used as calculators). Calculators (handheld and online) that have AI enabled features must not be used. |
| Your smart phone | To be used only in instances where you might need to reset your password, generate MFA or call the Deakin IT Service Desk, unless explicit approval has been provided for use as part of the exam instructions. Your phone should be placed out of reach at all other times. |
| Pen and blank paper | Pen and blank paper may only be used if they are an allowable resource for the exam. |
| Food and drink | Remove food packaging, and drinks must be in plain or clear containers. |
For full details on allowable resources, students should refer to their unit site.
Materials not permitted during the exam
| Material | Additional information |
|---|---|
| Earpieces of any kind | Headsets, headphones, earbuds, ear plugs or ear pods. |
| Additional monitor/screen | You must not use dual or extended screens. Duplicating your laptop screen to a larger second screen is allowed. |
| Electronic devices | Other than the computer used to complete the exam. Use of USB devices and printers are also not allowed. Devices with AI capabilities (such as smart pens and smart glasses) must not be used during the exam. |
| Online tools | You must not use search engines (e.g. Google, Baidu, Bing) to search for or to access information on the internet. You must not use online translation tools such as Google Translate. |
| Web resources | You must not use Artificial Intelligence (AI) content generation sites or associated AI browser extensions. You must submit your own work and not use services that provide exam answer assistance (e.g. Chegg). |
| Virtual Machines | You must not use Virtual Machines (VMs). |
| Bags/purses/wallets/keys | Must be placed out of reach. |
| Watches | All watches including smart watches and fitness trackers must be removed and placed out of reach. All alarms and alerts must be switched off. |
Under Regulation 04.1(2) – Academic Misconduct, it is considered an act of academic misconduct to have, possess, access, or use any material or item not allowed under the instructions for that examination, whether or not it is with the intention of using it to gain an advantage.
Exam date
The exam timetable is released via TimeEdit. If your location is incorrect, contact Student Central immediately to have it updated.
If the exam timetable hasn't been released in TimeEdit for the study period yet, you can check your location via StudentConnect:
- click on the 'Course and unit details' button on the home page or in the enrolment menu
- on this screen, you will see a line for 'Exam Location'. If this is blank or is incorrect, you'll need to request a change of exam location.
- check this location against the online unit locations list.
You can also change your exam location via the Nominate or Change of exam location form.
Exam time
The exam begins at the time specified in the EoUA timetable on TimeEdit. Time is shown in either Australian Eastern Daylight Time (AEDT) or Australian Eastern Standard Time (AEST). Convert exam times to your local time by using a World Time Zone Converter.
Exam duration
You have a fixed period of time to complete the exam. Time begins at the scheduled exam start time. An additional 30 minutes is provided to allow time for reading (15 minutes) and for technical support (15 minutes).
Location
To sit an online exam, you will need:
- A quiet, private space in your home or office where you will not be disturbed. Public or shared spaces may not be suitable.
- A well-lit space. You may encounter camera feed issues if your face cannot be properly detected in your camera feed due to poor lighting.
- A desk or table, and a chair. It is not suitable to sit on a couch or bed.
Technology
You will provide your own technology to sit the online exam. You will need:
- A desktop or laptop computer using a currently supported Microsoft Windows or Apple macOS operating system. Refer to the Deakin computing requirements for currently supported operating systems and device minimum standards. Mobile devices are not supported by the university for use in exams.
- A single screen. If you have a second monitor it must duplicate your laptop screen. Dual or extended screens are not allowed.
- A working webcam.
- A power source to plug in your computer.
- A reliable internet connection.
- A recommended internet browser (Windows: Chrome or Edge, macOS: Chrome only).
- If you are using a VPN, turn it off before starting the exam.
China based exams
If you are based in China, you must use a Windows computer and the Microsoft Edge browser.
Identity check
You must present proof of identity via the webcam before starting the exam. You will need official photographic identification such as your Deakin Student Card, a driver's licence, passport or national identity card. Your identification will be recorded for verification.
You should make yourself ready in your chosen examination location with sufficient time to check your exam environment and equipment. You can help to make your online exam as smooth as possible by preparing early and knowing what to expect. Before the exam period commences, you should:
- Watch the video above, which provides an overview of how to prepare for your exam.
- Read the exam rules. Check your unit site for specific details regarding allowable resources.
- Do the Try-It-Out exam to test your webcam and internet connection.
- Source an alternative internet or location if your internet connectivity is poor or unstable.
- Check your browser version is up to date (Microsoft Edge or Google Chrome).
- Know what to do on exam day.
- Know how to get help during the exam.
Try-It-Out exam
The Try-It-Out exam is a short, compulsory exam that helps you to test the suitability of your webcam and internet connections, check your setup and troubleshoot issues before exams commence. Information about how to access and sit the Try-It-Out exam will be available in your unit site four weeks prior to the exam period.
You should complete it on the computer you will use for the exam. You can repeat it if you need to change your computer.
Ensure you do this well before the exam period to identify and troubleshoot any issues.
Troubleshooting
Contact Integrity Advocate via Live Chat for assistance with technical issues.
You can also contact the IT Service Desk .
See the tips for improving online exam performance (PDF, 461.7 KB) document and the Troubleshooting FAQs (PDF, 189.6 KB) document for resolving technical issues.
Access the exam
You must start your exam at the scheduled exam start time. The examination system will show the exam duration and a timer counting down the time left in an exam. It is your responsibility to keep track of the time left as a time warning is not provided.
- Prepare a copy of the Troubleshooting FAQs (PDF, 189.6 KB) document for easy access during the exam.
- Start at the time shown in your exam timetable.
- Turn off other internet connected devices to improve your internet connectivity.
- Restart your computer. To maintain an adequate RAM level, keep the opened files, applications and tabs to a minimum if your exam allows access to these resources. Otherwise, close any other files or applications (if opened) except for the browser you are going to use to sit the exam.
- Use Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge as your browser.
- Open CloudDeakin and go to your unit site.
- Click the Content tab then the Examination module in the unit site.
- Select and click on the exam link to start.
System check
Integrity Advocate will conduct a system check to make sure your system is working. If you have problems, contact Integrity Advocate via Live Chat for assistance.
Identity check
You must present official photographic identification such as your Deakin Card (student ID card), a drivers licence, passport or national identity card, at every examination you sit. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete your identity check.
- Take a snapshot of your face. Make sure your face is clearly shown. Retake if necessary.
- Present your photo identification to the webcam, ensuring it is close enough to fill the on-screen frame. Make sure your details and photo are clearly captured and readable. If the image is too small or too blurry to read, retake it.
During exam
- Save your written responses regularly and at least every 2 minutes.
- DO NOT close the exam window or the Stop Sharing button unless you have been disconnected from the exam.
- If your exam allows access to resources:
- Close tabs, files and applications once you have finished using them during the exam.
- Close all tabs, files and applications before submitting the exam.
Submission
You must submit your exam within the allowed time.
- You will see a countdown timer in the CloudDeakin Quiz.
- Once the time is over, you cannot answer further questions and the exam will be automatically submitted.
- An on-screen message will confirm your exam submission. Email confirmation will not be sent to you.
- If you were unable to submit your exam due to a technical issue, it will be automatically submitted once the exam finish time has passed.
For help with technical issues during the exam:
- Contact Integrity Advocate via Live-Chat for assistance with access or authentication.
- Call the Deakin IT Service Desk (Australia 1800 463 888 | International +61 3 5227 8888).
- Keep your support ticket number as evidence of technical issues.
- Refer to the Troubleshooting FAQs (PDF, 189.6 KB) document for common issues.
Disconnection from the exam
If your internet fluctuates or drops out, you may be disconnected from the exam.
- While you are disconnected, the exam timer keeps ticking.
- If your internet connection is restored before the end of the exam finish time, you can reconnect to the exam and continue. You will need to repeat the system and identity checks if you have been disconnected for 5 minutes or more.
- For further information on how to avoid being disconnected, refer to tips for improving online exam performance (PDF, 461.7 KB) document.
Technical issues impacting your exam
If you experience technical issues during the exam that you believe impacted your performance, you can consider applying for special consideration. You must apply within 3 days of your exam. Attach screenshots of your issue, your IT support request and number.
Please note if you apply for special consideration, where successful, you only have the option to re-sit the exam in the following Supplementary EoUA/exam period. Your current exam will not be marked (even if you might pass it).
Unable to sit an online exam
If you are unable to provide a suitable location, or meet conditions necessary to sit an online exam, contact Student Central for advice.
Booking an on-campus space to sit your exam
If you have a compelling reason that will prevent you from completing your exam at your location, submit your request via the Registration Form. Your request will be considered based on your individual case and the availability of space.
- This form is an expression of interest only. On-campus spaces are very limited and allocation cannot be guaranteed. We will contact you in the coming weeks to confirm if a space is available and reserved for you.
- Please be aware that the offered spaces are shared by other students.
- Please only put in a request if it’s absolutely necessary. As spaces are limited, unnecessary bookings may prevent access for other students with significant needs.
Special assistance required to complete an exam
If you require special assistance to sit a supervised online exam, contact the Disability Resource Centre at least 2 weeks before the exam period. If adjustments to your exam are approved, you will be advised via email.
Your data and images will be handled in accordance with Deakin's Privacy Policy. For more information, refer to the Supervised Online Exams Disclosure Statement (PDF, 120.1 KB).
Recordings will be stored on the third-party servers of our online supervision service provider, Integrity Advocate. These recordings are viewed by Integrity Advocate reviewers for the purposes of verifying that academic integrity has been maintained. Recordings are deleted in 24 hours (unless further verification is required) and all other data within 12 months. Deakin may collect the data of your examinations from Integrity Advocate and will retain these securely in accordance with legal record-keeping obligations.
Need technical support during your exam?
If you have any technical issues during your exam, or would like to prepare to take your exam, please view our online technical support page.
Frequently asked questions
I am studying outside Australia. What time is my exam?
Exam times are shown in either Australian Eastern Daylight Time (AEDT) or Australian Eastern Standard Time (AEST) in TimeEdit. You should convert exam times to your local time by using World Time Zone Converter.
I don't have a suitable place for my online exam. What should I do?
If you cannot arrange a suitable place for your online exam at home, at office, or at your family member's or friend's place, you may be able to sit the exam on campus if you are based in Victoria. Contact Student Central for advice.
What if I don't have a suitable computer? Can I use someone else's computer?
If you don't have a suitable computer, consider using one of your family member's or friend's, if possible. You will need to be able to access CloudDeakin and use either Microsoft Edge or Google Chrome. If you are borrowing someone else's computer, make sure you do a Try-It-Out exam to check the system.
What if I don't have a webcam, or the camera on my computer doesn't work? Can I use an external camera?
If you don't have a working webcam and microphone, consider borrowing them from your family member or friend, or alternatively purchase a USB webcam. External cameras are also ok to use. You should test they work with your system by doing the Try-It-Out exam.
My internet is poor/unstable. What if my internet connection drops out?
If your internet fluctuates or fails, you may get disconnected from the online exam. Check the tips for improving online exam performance (PDF, 141.7KB) document to improve your internet speed. Ensure you take action to prevent poor internet prior to the exam period to have a smooth exam experience.
How do I find my notes if I can't use internet search? Can I use another device (e.g. tablet or phone) to access my notes?
If your exam allows access to reference material, you must pre-prepare your notes, resources or electronic texts so that they are available without using internet search. You can bookmark the online resources in the browser or store the information on your computer. You can only access your electronic reference materials on the computer you are using for the exam - other devices are not allowed.
I have my notes saved in OneNote or in another note-taking App. Can I access these during the exam?
If your exam allows access to reference material, OneNote may only be used during the exam to access stored reference materials. You must not use OneNote to communicate or collaborate with others during the exam. Note-taking Apps may only be used if they are primarily designed for note-taking, and must not be used for collaboration purposes. These Apps must be accessed on the same computer being used for the exam (and not on another device).
I am not very technically savvy. How do I deal with technical issues during my exam?
Issue prevention is the key. Use the tips for improving online exam performance (PDF, 141.7KB) document to prepare for your exam. Also keep a copy of the Troubleshooting FAQs (PDF, 209.6KB) document handy during the exam. You can also:
- Contact Integrity Advocate support via Live Chat for assistance with access or authentication.
- Call the Deakin IT Service Desk (Australia 1800 463 888 | International +61 3 5227 8888).
Where do I access my exam on the exam day?
Your exam will be available in CloudDeakin via your unit site under the “Assessment” and “Quizzes” menu items.
How can I share my screen?
Click on the centre screen, then click on Share. If you can't see the share screen window, minimise the browser, you will then see the pop-up share screen window in the background.
Can I use dual screens?
You can duplicate your laptop screen to a larger display. This must be set up prior to starting the exam. However, you cannot use a second screen, dual monitors or extended display.
It's pretty noisy here. Can I wear headphones to block the noise during the exam?
No, headphones, headsets, earphones, earbuds, or ear pods are not allowed during the exam. You should move to a quiet location.
I wasn’t asked to present my photo ID at my recent supervised online exam. Is my exam still valid and will it be marked?
Yes, your exam is still valid and will be marked. Your identity verification data has been stored and matched from a previous exam sitting, so you were not requested to provide your ID this time. It is still a requirement for you to bring your photo ID to every supervised online exam, as automatic identity verification matching is not guaranteed for every subsequent exam sitting.
Do I need to wait 15 minutes before I can start answering my exam questions?
No, the traditional 15 minutes of reading time has now been incorporated into writing time. You can start answering your questions as soon as you enter the exam. We do, however, recommend that you take a few moments to read and navigate through the exam to ensure you are aware of the number of pages and questions required to complete.
Will anyone be watching me while I take the exam?
No one is watching you during the exam. You will be recorded via webcam, and your screen is recorded simultaneously. Only Integrity Advocate reviewers and approved Deakin Student Services staff will access and review these recordings.
Can I take a bathroom break?
If necessary, you can take a bathroom break during the exam. You should keep the break to a minimum and under 5 minutes. If you are disconnected from the exam due to inactivity, you may need to reconnect and go through the identity and system checks again.
Can I use internet search?
The use of internet search engines, such as 'Google', 'Bing' and 'Baidu' is not allowed.
If your exam allows access to reference material, you may:
- Access pre-prepared reference materials including online reference materials (these should be bookmarked in your browser).
- Use the Find function to search within your pre-prepared notes or electronic textbook online.
- Search for information within a website that you have already bookmarked, including accessing links to other reading articles within the website.
Can I use a calculator? Can I use a pen and paper for calculations and workings?
Please refer to the exam instructions in your unit site for allowable items.
Can I split my screen to display both the exam and reference content I have saved on my computer?
If your exam allows access of reference material, you are allowed to re-size your browser and split the screen to display multiple content.
Can I open other tabs on the same browser to access my saved resource?
If your exam allows access of reference material, you can open resources in other tabs on the same browser. We recommend that you limit the number of open tabs to what is necessary to answer the question. Opening too many tabs may reduce your available RAM and cause a disconnection.
How often should I save my typed answer responses?
You should save your answers every 2 minutes.
How do I know my exam is submitted successfully?
You can confirm your exam is submitted successfully if you see ‘1/1’ under “Attempts”. (Note: If there is an asterisk (*) with ‘0/1’, it means your exam is still in progress. Re-enter the exam and submit it.) No email confirmation will be sent to you.
If you were unable to submit your exam due to a technical issue, it will be automatically submitted once the exam finish time has passed.
I have submitted my exam but my score shows as 0 out of xx marks for my grade. Should I be concerned my exam has not submitted correctly?
No, this just means that your exam has not yet been marked and that your final result is not yet visible. Marking will occur in the days following your exam.
Get help for technical issues
For help with technical issues during an online exam:
- Contact Integrity Advocate Support via Live Chat for assistance with access or authentication.
- Call the Deakin IT Service Desk (Australia 1800 463 888 | International +61 3 5227 8888).
- Keep your support ticket number as evidence of technical issues.
Need help?
Our student advisers are here to help you with course advice, enrolment and general enquiries.