EPSO just announced this week (4 Sept 2023) that all remotely proctored tests will be automated from here on out. This came as quite a surprise, but now it makes more sense that all the tests will be held on a single day. We have been wondering how they will have so many proctors handling thousands of candidates at once - and now we know. Automated remote proctoring will come with many challenges, no doubt.
This change in the EPSO testing system begs many questions:
- How will LIVE automated proctoring work?
- What happens if there are technical issues?
- How can the 360° environmental inspection be automated?
- On the website they state 'no more personal checks' does that mean no more strict testing environment rules?
- How can can an automated system see if a person is cheating?
- On the EPSO website they state that candidates will be recorded. What does this mean? And how will it prevent cheating?
- Can their website handle thousands of testers at once? For the AD5 competition perhaps tens of thousands?
- Will corporate computers still be blocked from the exams because of the special software?
- Will the automated system provide for pausing or taking breaks between tests?
- Will there be chat support available by real humans, or will that be AI as well?
But we're not all negative here. There are some pros as well:
- Less chance of info leakage if everyone is testing on the same day (though candidates will likely be allowed to pick a time slot on ‘exam day’)
- That most probably means that results will be released quicker
- Tests can be taken from anywhere in the world, as long as you have a good internet connection and your laptop / testing environment complies with the strict rules.
EPSO will switch to automated remote proctoring effective immediately, starting with CAST exams happening on 13 and 14 September 2023. On their website they write that they are certain this new approach will offer a 'smoother testing experience' with easy access and less interruptions.
All we can do now is wait and see. We are curious to hear feedback from CAST candidates doing this first! Please let us know how it went: contact us here.
Good luck on your EPSO Exams!