We regularly receive messages from all over the world asking about the work that our invigilators do to deliver global exam programmes.  So we decided to put together this page to help answer some of the most frequently asked questions that we are asked.

What is an invigilator?

Invigilators (or proctors as our friends in the US call them), are exam-day personnel who are employed to ensure that exams are carried out in controlled conditions, and that the exam candidates all receive an equal opportunity to perform at their best during the assessment.  Good invigilators provide support and encouragement to candidates, helping to minimise exam day stress for candidates wherever possible.  Invigilators also play a key role in ensuring that there is no cheating, bribery or malpractice during the examinations which could undermine the integrity of the qualifications.

What skills do you need to be an exam invigilator?

The role of an exam invigilator requires excellent interpersonal skills, the ability to communicate effectively and professionally, great organisational and administrative abilities, and real attention to detail.  The ability to efficiently work under pressure and manage time is crucial to the position because invigilators can often find themselves multitasking – supervising examinations and enforcing regulations in the event of any malpractice incidents.

What does ‘invigilated exam’ mean?

An invigilated exam is an exam that requires an invigilator to supervise the candidates before, during and after the assessment, to ensure that the exam is carried out under controlled conditions.

How do I become an exam invigilator?

Exam invigilators do not necessarily need any experience in the industry – detailed training should be provided by your employer.  What we look for in potential invigilators, are transferable skills (listed above) that you can apply during your work at invigilated exams.  VICTVS has an intensive training and selection programme for invigilators that fully assesses skillset, attitude, professionalism and suitability for the role.

What qualifications do you need to be an invigilator?

You do not need any specific qualifications to work as an invigilator however degree level education or equivalent is often beneficial.  At VICTVS, we provide role-specific training to all invigilators and exam day staff – all of which is assessed to a set standard.  If you are successful in completing our training, you will be awarded VICTVS Assured Invigilator status.

Can anyone be an exam invigilator?

Yes, anyone can be an invigilator so long as they have the skills, commitment and passion to support people who are attempting to change their lives through education.

What is the difference between an ‘invigilator’ and a ‘proctor’?

There is no difference between an invigilator and proctor.  The use of these terms to describe exam management staff varies depending on which country you are in.  Proctor is the common name for invigilator in the United States.

Are all exams invigilated?

No, not all exams are invigilated.  However, high-stakes exams conducted by educational establishments, training institutions and awarding bodies are usually invigilated to protect the integrity of their qualifications.

What is Remote Proctoring?

Remote Proctoring uses technology to allow students to sit exams remotely.  This is often done through a web-based interface that provides remote monitoring either by a human being or by a video recording of student behaviour during a test that is analysed later.  Remote Proctoring platforms often employ eye movement tracking, and rudimentary artificial intelligence to monitor candidate behaviour.

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