The Exam

System Requirements & Environment

Use a compatible device, modern browser, and a quiet private room. Complete a quick system check before test day to avoid delays.

Minimum specs Environment

At glance

  • Device: laptop/desktop only
  • Browser: latest Chrome/Edge/Safari
  • Network: stable, 10↓/5↑ Mbps
  • Room: private, quiet, well‑lit
Run pre‑test check
Purpose

Why requirements matter

A compatible setup prevents audio/video issues and ensures fair monitoring. Completing the pre‑test check reduces delays on exam day.

  • Reliability — stable performance during Speaking and Listening tasks.
  • Integrity — uninterrupted proctoring and identity checks.
Scope

Applies to every candidate

  • All regions and time zones
  • All sessions and retakes
  • Remote delivery with live monitoring
Minimum specs

Device, browser & network

Device

Laptop/desktop running Windows 10+, macOS 12+, or Linux (modern distro). One monitor only.

Browser

Latest Chrome, Edge, or Safari. Allow camera, microphone, and clipboard permissions when prompted.

Network

Stable connection with at least 10 Mbps download / 5 Mbps upload. Avoid VPNs and heavy streaming during the session.

Camera

1080p or HD webcam positioned eye‑level. Ensure good lighting with your face clearly visible.

Audio

Built‑in or external mic; wired headphones recommended. Test for echo and background noise.

Power

Plug in your device or ensure >50% battery. Close power‑saving apps that may throttle performance.

Environment

Room & environment checklist

  • Use a private, quiet room with a desk and chair.
  • Place your camera at eye level; ensure your face is well lit.
  • Remove notes, books, and secondary devices from the desk.
  • Disconnect additional monitors and accessories.
  • Close messaging, conferencing, and screen‑sharing apps.
  • Keep your phone out of reach unless instructed by support.
Proctor tips

Pass checks quickly

Have your ID ready, pan the camera when asked, and keep within frame. Follow proctor instructions immediately.

Run the pre‑test system check

  • Permissions Open the checker and allow camera, microphone, and screen permissions.
  • Network Verify latency and bandwidth; switch to a stronger network if needed.
  • Audio & video Record a 5‑second clip to confirm clarity and volume levels.
  • Environment Confirm lighting and background; remove distractions before test time.
  • Finalize Close background apps, plug in power, and keep your ID ready.
Open system checker
Help

Troubleshooting

Camera blocked

Enable permissions in browser settings; restart the tab; quit apps using the camera (Zoom, Teams).

Mic not detected

Select the correct input device; disable noise‑cancelling apps; test in the system checker.

Network unstable

Move closer to the router, switch to wired, or pause downloads/streaming on other devices.

Explore next

Go deeper into policy and delivery.

Format

Format & Timing

Sections, task types, and time guidance.

Learn more
CEFR

CEFR Alignment

How we map results from A1 to C2.

Learn more
Verification

Certificates & Verification

What appears on your certificate and how to share it.

Learn more

Quick answers

No. Use a laptop or desktop with a webcam and microphone.

No separate install. Use a modern browser; you may grant camera/mic permissions and run a quick system check.

We recommend 5 Mbps up/10 Mbps down. A stable connection matters more than peak speed.

Yes. Wired headphones are recommended; avoid Bluetooth if it disconnects easily.

Possibly. Ensure firewalls or VPNs don’t block camera/mic or proctoring traffic.

The session attempts to reconnect. If it fails, follow the on‑screen recovery or contact support immediately.

No. Use a private, quiet room with no other people present.

No. Disconnect extra displays; use a single screen only.

Latest Chrome, Edge, or Safari. Enable camera, microphone, and clipboard permissions when prompted.

Not typically, but you must be able to change browser permissions and close background apps.

Ready for test day?

Run the system check and secure a quiet room—then book your slot.