Taking a Synoptic-proctored exam

Information for candidates

Synoptic is Synap's built-in proctoring. If your exam uses it, your exam is monitored to keep things fair for everyone. Exactly what that involves depends on the settings your exam provider has chosen — your exam portal will tell you what applies to your exam and walk you through a system check before you start.

What to expect

  • Depending on your exam's setup, it may run entirely in your web browser, or you may be asked to install a lockdown application before you begin — your portal will guide you through this.
  • Your exam provider chooses what is monitored (for example screen, webcam or microphone). You'll be told clearly, and asked to grant the relevant permissions, before the exam starts.
  • A pre-exam system check confirms your device, browser, camera and connection are ready — run it as early as your portal allows.

Tips for a smooth exam

  • Use a quiet, well-lit room and clear your desk.
  • Close every other app and browser tab before you begin — especially anything that uses your camera or microphone.
  • If you're on a work or school device, check with your IT team first: managed devices can block camera access or installs.
  • Plug in your device, or make sure it's fully charged, and use the most reliable network you have.

Downloads

Only some Synoptic exams need anything installed — your exam portal will tell you if yours does, and will give you the right download at the right moment. If you've been instructed to install ahead of time:

If you're on a work or school device and can't install software, contact your IT team or exam provider well before exam day.

Your privacy

Monitoring only captures what your exam provider has configured, and recordings are protected in transit and at rest. Any review decisions about your exam are made by your exam provider. See our privacy & data protection guide for details.

Is your exam proctored by Rosalyn instead? See our Rosalyn-proctored exam guide.