Digital exams – how to prepare
Digital exams can be taken either in an exam room on campus or entirely remotely. Regardless of the setting, it's crucial to know well in advance how you are expected to prepare so that technology doesn't cause any unnecessary stress. Below, we’ve listed some questions that are important to consider before an exam.
Do you need to bring your own computer?
Some programmes have computer rooms specifically for exams, while others allow students to bring their own computers. If you're using your own computer, you need to know if there are any specific requirements it must meet. If you don’t have access to a suitable computer, you can usually borrow one from the university, but you may need to reserve one well in advance. If you would like to borrow a university computer, please check what the process is.
If you're taking an exam on a computer you're not familiar with, it might be worth asking if you can test it out beforehand. Also, keep in mind that you may need to memorise or write down your passwords if you're using a computer that doesn't have them saved already.
What digital tools will you use?
Be sure to find out which digital tools you need to use during the exam. This could just include the program in which you’ll take the exam, but in some cases, you may also need to use a specific web browser or know how to convert files to different formats. Research as much as possible about the tools you'll be using so that you don't waste time dealing with technical issues during your exam. A good place to start is the information about digital tools on our website, but you can also ask your teacher if it is possible to see what your exam will look like in advance.
Do you need learning support?
Some find digital exams particularly challenging because they may involve more steps or different types of distractions. If you have the right to extra support during the exam, you may receive extra time or be allowed to sit in a separate room. You may also be allowed to have spell-check enabled or use text-to-speech software.
To have the right to learning support during the exam, you must have received an approval from Disability Support Services at Lund University. You can read more about how to apply for extra support via the link below. Remember to inform your teacher or course administrator about the support you need at least two weeks before the exam. They need to know well in advance in case they need to arrange extra exam supervisors, book more rooms, or adapt the exam.
Information about learning support at Lund University
How will the exam be monitored?
Some programmes require that exams are taken remotely using a digital tool such as Inspera or Canvas. During remote exams, you are likely to be monitored by exam supervisors via a video tool, usually Zoom. You’ll find information about how remote exam monitoring works at Lund University via the links below. However, keep in mind that exams may be carried out differently across different departments, so always double-check with your teacher or course administrator if you're unsure.