Table of Contents
What are online university exams like?
How do you sit an online exam?
What types of online exams are there?
What do you need to sit an online exam?
What is proctoring or remote supervision?
What happens if the internet connection fails during the exam?
Can there be face-to-face exams as part of an online degree programme?
What are online exams like at university?
Online exams are conducted via a digital platform and may include various mechanisms to identify the student and monitor the exam. The format, duration, permitted materials and monitoring system depend on each university, degree programme and module.
An online exam may consist of a multiple-choice questionnaire, essay questions, practical exercises, a presentation or an oral exam via video conference. It may also include a time limit, a randomised order of questions or remote supervision tools.
Studying an online degree does not necessarily mean that all exams are taken from home. Some programmes allow you to take them online, others require you to attend a test centre, and certain courses combine both options. Therefore, before you enrol, you should check the specific conditions of the degree programme you are interested in.
How is an online exam conducted?
The procedure may vary depending on the platform and the type of exam. However, an online exam usually follows these steps:
- The student receives the exam notice and instructions.
- They check that their computer and internet connection meet the requirements.
- They log in to the platform using their personal credentials.
- They complete the specified identification procedure.
- They read the rules and confirm that they are aware of the conditions.
- Start the exam within the specified time frame.
- Answer the questions or attach the requested files.
- Submit the exam and check that it has been recorded correctly.
Some exams have a specific start time and a limited time limit to complete them. In others, students have a wider time window to access the exam, but the time starts counting from the moment they open it.
It is important to check the time zone in advance, especially if you are studying from another country, and to distinguish between the access time and the actual duration of the exam.
What types of online exams are there?
Online exams can take many different forms depending on the knowledge and skills being assessed.
Multiple-choice exams
These consist of questions with multiple-choice answers. The platform can mark them automatically or save the answers for the teacher to review later.
To ensure fair testing conditions, it is possible to set a time limit, display questions one at a time, or randomise the order of questions for each student.
Essay-style exams
Students must write open-ended answers, explain concepts or justify a solution. In these exams, it is particularly important to manage time effectively and set aside a few minutes at the end to review what has been written.
Depending on the platform, answers can be typed directly or submitted as a document.
Case studies and problem-solving
This format assesses the ability to apply knowledge to a specific situation. It may include numerical exercises, document analysis, professional scenarios, text commentary or the drafting of proposals.
In some cases, you will need to download a file, work on it and upload it again before the time runs out.
Oral examinations
These are conducted via videoconference and allow lecturers to ask questions in real time. They can also be used to assess language skills, defend a project or present a final-year or Master’s dissertation.
The instructions must specify the tool to be used, the duration and whether the student needs to prepare a presentation.
Exams with authorised materials
Some exams allow students to consult notes, books, legislation, calculators or other resources. This does not mean that external materials can be used freely during any online exam.
The exam notice must specify which resources are permitted. If this is not expressly stated, it is advisable to check before the exam begins.
What do you need to sit an online exam?
The technical requirements depend on the platform and the proctoring system. As a general rule, you may need:
- A compatible computer.
- A stable internet connection.
- An up-to-date web browser.
- A webcam and microphone, where required.
- Approved speakers or headphones.
- Proof of identity.
- Software or extensions specified by the university.
- Access to your institutional account.
- A quiet and well-lit space.
It is advisable to plug your computer into the mains, close any applications you will not be using and disable notifications. You should also avoid automatic updates or processes that might restart your computer during the exam.
If the university offers a technical check or a mock exam, it is important to complete this using the same computer and internet connection that will be used on the day of the assessment.
You can find further recommendations in our guide to online study requirements.
How is the student’s identity verified?
The university must put measures in place to verify that the person sitting the exam is the person enrolled on the course. The procedure may include:
- Login via username and password.
- Two-factor authentication systems.
- Presentation of an identity document.
- Visual verification by a supervisor.
- Personal codes or controls associated with the platform.
Visual identification using a document is not the same as biometric facial recognition. In the first case, a person can check that the student matches the photograph on the document. In the second, an automated system analyses facial features to identify the student biometrically.
This distinction is important because biometric data is subject to enhanced data protection safeguards.
What is proctoring or remote supervision?
The term ‘proctoring’ is used to describe the procedures and tools employed to supervise an examination taken remotely. Its aim is to guarantee the student’s identity, the authorship of the answers and compliance with the examination rules.
Depending on the system chosen, supervision may include:
- Live monitoring by a person.
- Use of a camera or microphone.
- Recording of the session.
- Screen monitoring.
- Restriction of certain applications or web pages.
- Logging of incidents for later review.
Not all online exams use the same controls, nor do all monitoring tools incorporate facial recognition.
Furthermore, an alert generated by an automated system should not, on its own, be interpreted as evidence of misconduct. A movement, a noise or a connection interruption may have various explanations and must be analysed in accordance with the procedure established by the institution.
Do online exams always require a camera?
No. Whether a camera is required depends on the type of exam and the identification or monitoring system established by the university.
It may be required for:
- Visually verify identity.
- To supervise the exam.
- To conduct an oral examination.
- To present or defend a piece of work.
- Communicating with the person responsible for the assessment.
There are also questionnaires, assignments, projects and other assessable activities that do not require a camera. The examination notice must specify the equipment required and the permissions the student will need to grant.
If a camera is required, it is advisable to check the framing, lighting and that it is working properly beforehand. You should not wait until the start of the exam to set it up or configure it.
Can I use my mobile phone during an online exam?
It depends on the instructions. In many exams, the mobile phone must be switched off, set to silent or kept out of reach to prevent unauthorised reference to information or communication.
However, in certain procedures, it may be used as:
- A second monitoring device.
- A means of authentication.
- A channel for receiving a code.
- A means of contact in the event of a technical fault.
Students should not assume that they are allowed to check their mobile phones simply because the exam is being taken at home. If the university permits or requires their use, it must state this explicitly.
What happens if the internet connection fails during the exam?
A loss of connection does not necessarily mean that the entire exam has been lost. Some platforms periodically save answers and allow you to continue once access is restored. Others may block the exam or require technical support to intervene.
In the event of a problem, you should follow these steps:
- Do not close the browser or the platform in a hurry.
- Check whether the connection has been restored.
- Try to log in again by following the instructions provided.
- Take a screenshot or save evidence of the error, where possible.
- Make a note of the time it occurred.
- Contact the designated support channel immediately.
- Keep a record of the incident reference number and all correspondence.
It is not advisable to use a different channel if the university has specified a particular procedure. Retaking the exam, extending the time allowed or any other measures will depend on the institution’s protocol and the verification of the incident.
To minimise risks, it is recommended that you sit the exam using a stable internet connection, avoid downloading files at the same time, and ask that your home network is not overloaded whilst you are taking the exam.
How should you prepare your study space for an online exam?
The chosen location should allow you to concentrate and meet the conditions specified by the university.
Before you begin:
- Choose a quiet space.
- Remove any unauthorised notes and materials.
- Check that the lighting is good enough for you to be seen clearly.
- Make sure no one else enters the room whilst you are taking the exam.
- Close any unnecessary programmes, tabs and notifications.
- Prepare only the permitted resources.
- Let the people you live with know.
- Keep the table clear.
- Have your ID ready if requested.
- Keep a glass of water nearby only if the rules allow it.
If the exam involves a camera, you may be asked to adopt a specific position or show your surroundings before you begin. The conditions must be explained in advance so that the student can prepare accordingly.
How is privacy protected during an online exam?
Taking an online exam may involve the processing of personal data, particularly when a camera, microphone or monitoring systems are used.
The university must provide information on, amongst other things:
- What data is collected.
- What it is used for.
- The legal basis for processing the data.
- Who can access it.
- How long it will be retained.
- What rights the student can exercise.
- Which provider is involved, when an external tool is used.
The mechanisms applied must be appropriate and proportionate to the purpose of ensuring the integrity of the assessment.
Particular attention must be paid to automated facial recognition. The Spanish Data Protection Agency considers that these techniques involve the processing of specially protected biometric data and that their use requires legal justification and enhanced safeguards.
Therefore, an exam conducted via camera should not be confused with a biometric facial recognition system. These are different forms of data processing, and not all remote monitoring systems incorporate this technology.
Can there be face-to-face examinations as part of an online degree programme?
Yes. The fact that classes and course content are delivered online does not necessarily mean that all assessments are taken from home.
Depending on the programme, there may be:
- Supervised online examinations.
- Compulsory in-person exams.
- Practical assessments requiring specific facilities.
- The option to choose between an online exam and an authorised examination centre.
- A combination of different formats.
Therefore, before you enrol, you should check how the degree programme is assessed, whether you will need to travel, where the examination centres are located and how many in-person examinations are scheduled.
At UAX, some programmes allow you to sit exams online, whilst others may require in-person exams. For certain degree programmes, there are also national and international exam centres available , subject to availability and capacity.
How is an online degree assessed apart from exams?
Exams are only one part of the assessment process. An online degree programme may incorporate continuous assessment to evaluate learning throughout the course.
Assessed activities may include:
- Individual assignments.
- Group projects.
- Case studies.
- Questionnaires.
- Presentations.
- Participation in discussions.
- On-campus activities.
- Mid-term exams.
- Final exams.
- Final-year or Master’s dissertation.
The course handbook for each module must explain which activities will be assessed and the weighting each will have in the final mark.
This system allows for the assessment not only of knowledge acquisition, but also of the ability to apply that knowledge, justify an answer, solve problems or collaborate with others.
You can find out about all the elements involved in learning in our article on how an online university works.
Tips for preparing for an online exam
As well as studying the course content, you need to prepare the technical and organisational aspects of the exam.
Read the instructions in advance
Check the date, time, duration, permitted materials and the supervision system. Don’t wait until the day itself to realise you need to install an app.
Test your equipment
Check your internet connection, browser, camera and microphone. If a demo environment is available, use it to familiarise yourself with the tool.
Log in well in advance
Log in before the scheduled time to complete the identification process and resolve any potential issues without using up exam time.
Prepare your workspace
Remove any unauthorised materials and avoid distractions. Proper preparation reduces nerves and helps you to concentrate.
Manage your time
Check the number of questions and allocate the available time accordingly. If the platform allows you to move between questions, answer the ones you’re most confident about first and set aside time for a final review.
Save your answers when necessary
If the platform doesn’t save them automatically, use the relevant option after each section.
Check that you’ve submitted your answers
Do not close your browser until you have confirmed that the exam has been submitted correctly. Save the receipt or take a screenshot if the system allows it.
What are online exams like at UAX?
The assessment for the online degree programmes we run at UAX may combine assignments, case studies, projects, continuous assessment and academic exams.
We have published detailed information on our website, tailored to each specific programme. For example, exams may be taken online under supervision or, depending on the programme, in person. Some degree programmes allow students to sit exams from wherever they are or to attend a designated centre, subject to availability and capacity.
The conditions are not necessarily the same for all undergraduate and postgraduate programmes. Students should check the specific information for their programme:
- The format of the exams.
- The dates and exam sessions.
- The technical requirements.
- The supervision rules.
- Possible examination centres.
- Compulsory face-to-face sessions.
Before each assessment, students will receive the necessary instructions regarding access, the procedure and the assessment criteria.
You can find out how the UAX online learning methodology we have designed works, or browse all the courses available in our UAX online university course catalogue.
Frequently asked questions about online exams
Is it compulsory to switch on the camera during an online exam?
It depends on the identification and supervision system in place for the exam. The instructions should specify in advance whether a camera, microphone or other device is required.
Can I sit an online exam on a tablet?
Only if the university and the platform confirm that the device is compatible. To avoid technical issues, it is usually preferable to use a computer that meets all the specified requirements.
Are exams for an online degree programme easier?
No. The online format changes the medium used to sit the exam, but the knowledge and skills required for the course must still be assessed. The difficulty depends on the content and the academic criteria, not on whether the exam is taken from home.
Are all exams at an online university taken from home?
Not necessarily. Some degree programmes include online exams, whilst others require students to attend a university campus or carry out certain activities in person.
Sources
- Spanish Data Protection Agency. Report on the use of facial recognition for online exams: https://www.aepd.es/prensa-y-comunicacion/notas-de-prensa/aepd-publica-informe-reconocimiento-facial-examenes
- Spanish Data Protection Agency. Processing of biometric data using artificial intelligence in online university assessment: https://www.aepd.es/informes-y-resoluciones/criterios-juridicos-aepd/aepd-sanciona-tratamiento-datos-biometricos-ia
- Alfonso X el Sabio University. Frequently asked questions about assessment and examinations in online degree programmes: https://www.uax.com/preguntas-frecuentes
- Alfonso X el Sabio University. Online methodology: https://www.uax.com/metodologia-online
- Alfonso X el Sabio University. Online university: https://www.uax.com/online
- Alfonso X el Sabio University. National and international examination centres: https://www.uax.com/sedes-internacionales-uax
