Online Proctored Testing (OPT)
ProProctor Online Proctored Testing provides an additional testing option for candidates, enabling them to take examinations at home without needing to travel to a test center. Should candidates decide they want to switch and take their exam in-person at a test center, this option is still available.
Before you schedule your OPT exam
To see if you can take your exam from home, please see the detailed system requirements below.
If you cannot meet the requirements listed below, you should not register for an OPT exam appointment; the exam won't run successfully. If you are responsible for a terminated exam either due to a technical issue or failure to follow testing personnel instructions, your exam fees are non-refundable, and non-transferable.
- Screen Resolution: 1024 X 768
- Operating System: Windows 8.1 or above / MacOS 10.13 or above except 13.0 through 13.2.1 and 15.0. Important: iPad/Android tablets are not supported.
- Web Browser: Latest Google Chrome
- Webcam Resolution: 640 X 480p
- Microphone: Enabled
- Download Speed: 1.0 mbps
- Firewalls have been disabled
- Virtual Machine is not being used
If you can confirm your device and connectivity meet these requirements, you must then complete a system check on the same network and computer you will use on exam day, in the same location.
This check will confirm |
This check will not confirm |
|---|---|
Your internet speed |
Firewalls that prevent the remote proctoring software from launching |
Webcam performance |
Your internet browser |
Microphone performance |
The version of your computer’s operating system |
Many companies have firewalls that do not allow for remote proctoring software; therefore, we recommend you use a personal computer. Taking an exam on a tablet or mobile device or using a dual monitor is not allowed. Wired headphone and microphone are allowed. Bluetooth headsets, mice, and keyboards are not supported.
Before launching your exam, you must ensure that your audio input/output are set to the correct devices (for example, if you are using headphones with a microphone) and that your volume is sufficient for you to be able to engage with proctors. Mac users must disable notifications before launching to prevent disturbances while testing.
If your computer or internet access has any upgrades after you run the system test, and before your exam, it is important that you re-run this test before exam day.
Complete system readiness check
It is critical to review the Prometric User Guide and eHelp web page for additional important information on setting up your exam space prior to your exam appointment.
Please note that passing the system test does not necessarily mean that you fulfill the minimum technical specification. It is therefore essential to complete both checks and confirm you successfully meet both criteria.
You will be required to agree to all the rules and regulations of the exam when you register for your exam. Please be aware of the following:
- You must take your exam in a private and quiet room for the full duration of the exam.
- Only bathroom breaks are permitted during the exam. However, you must notify your proctor before leaving the camera view and have them confirm you are taking a break. Your exam time will continue to run during any breaks. If you do not communicate with your proctor regarding your break, your exam session may be terminated.
- You will not be allowed to use to scratch paper. The exam software will include a digital notebook in which you can take virtual notes to reference.
- You will not be allowed to use additional monitors during the exam.
- You will be filmed throughout the exam and these and other data will be shared with 3rd parties for the sole purposes of running the exam and for other related post-exam activities.
- You can take your exam at home, or an alternative location such as in your office. Rooms with clear or frosted glass walls are not permitted. Make sure you can meet the important requirements which must be followed regardless of where you sit your exam. If your room does not meet all of these requirements, you will be unable to start or complete your exam. To reduce the risk of experiencing any technical issues during your exam, you should run the system test in the exact same location that you plan to sit your live exam.
- You may have photographs and pictures on your walls as long as there is no writing, or notes, whiteboards with notes etc. If the check-in agent is unsure of what is on the wall you may be asked to remove it. If it cannot be removed, the check-in agent may capture a photograph of the wall.
Registration and scheduling is a two-step process. You will register for the Certificate in ESG Investing and then schedule your specific exam appointment. Register by accessing your CFA account and selecting the Certificate in ESG Investing tile. Once you have completed registration, you will be directed to schedule your exam appointment.
Additional resources
ProProctor User Guide
Make sure you're fully prepared to take your exam online with the ProProctor User Guide. Learn everything you need to know for a smooth testing experience.
What to expect on test day video
Curious about the exam experience? Check out what to expect on test day.
OPT test drive experience
If you're considering Online Proctored Testing (OPT) for your Certificate in ESG Investing exam, the 30-minute test drive experience is a great way to prepare. It includes 10-12 mock exam questions and costs USD 30 (non-refundable).
We highly recommend completing the test drive on the same computer and in the same location where you'll take the actual exam. This helps ensure you meet the system and environmental requirements for a smooth and successful test day.
Frequently asked questions
Before launching your exam, you should fully close all applications using your task manager to avoid exam disruption (using Ctrl-Alt-Del for PC users, or Command-Option-Esc for Mac users). Have your confirmation email accessible at the start of your appointment, as you will also be asked to share your confirmation number.
The link to launch your exam will appear in your confirmation email. You can also launch your exam from this webpage: https://rpcandidate.prometric.com/Home/LaunchExam.
Once you select the ‘begin’ button, you will be prompted to download the ProProctor software. You will only be able to launch your exam 60 minutes before your exam start time and please be aware it can take up to 15 minutes to complete this process. It's important to be ready to start your exam on time, as you will not be able to start the launch process 60 minutes after your scheduled exam start time.
While there is a risk of online proctored tests being disrupted by technical or connectivity issues, there are a number of steps you can take to greatly reduce this risk.
A reliable internet connection is an essential minimum technical requirement for taking the exam. If possible, we recommend using a wired connection as this will minimize the risk of connectivity issues disrupting your exam experience. If a hard-wired connection is not possible, identify the place in your house where Wi-Fi is strongest and test there. If you are sharing your internet connection with other people, please ensure they refrain from activities that use internet bandwidth, such as Netflix, gaming or social media, etc.
- Pop up blockers should be disabled.
- Internet cookies should be enabled.
- Additionally, we recommend using a 17 inch or larger monitor for the exam.
For more information, please reference the System Requirements in the ProProctor User Guide.
In the event of a connectivity interruption the exam software will save the exam and if immediate action is taken to restore the connection, it will allow you to restart your exam at the same point. In case you have been disconnected from your exam, do the following:
- Wait for 3-4 minutes post disconnection.
- Reboot your desktop / laptop.
- Run the system check and ensure all the checks are passed.
- Re-launch your exam using the “Launch exam” button on the top. You must go through the whole check-in process again; however, your exam would start from the point where it was disconnected.
If you do experience a technical issue during the exam, you should immediately contact your proctor if possible, using the online chat functionality. In case you are getting any specific error, please contact technical support for further troubleshooting.
Items considered religious apparel are allowed following visual inspection by the check-in agent. Visual inspection will be done without asking the candidate to remove or unwrap it, unless upon direct visual observation there is strong visual evidence that a prohibited item is concealed in it. You may also be asked to remove large jewelry items from your person prior to and throughout the duration of the exam or pull your hair back to ensure nothing is attached to your ear that could provide an unfair advantage (e.g. a Bluetooth earpiece).
Wired headphones and microphones are allowed. Bluetooth devices such as headsets, mice, and keyboards are not supported.
A dongle is allowed if its purpose is to increase your Wi-Fi signal, but it should not have a user interface. Using mobile hotspots is not allowed for any reason. Mobile devices are not allowed in the room for any reason.
No, speaking aloud during your exam is prohibited unless you are in contact with the proctor to resolve a query.
You will be asked your gender preference during the check-in process. Proctors are randomly allocated to candidates and may be from a different region from yourself. You should therefore expect all dialogue with your proctor to be conducted in English.
Explore In Person Testing (IST)
Prepare for your Certificate in ESG Investing exam at a test center with confidence. Review key logistics, policies, and procedures to ensure a seamless in-person testing experience.