Many remote proctoring platforms used in online exams are equipped with features that monitor a test-taker’s gaze and head movements to uphold exam integrity. While they don’t use medical-grade eye-tracking hardware, AI-powered systems like ProctorU, Examity, Respondus Monitor, and others analyze webcam footage to estimate where you’re looking on or off the screen.
These tools use facial recognition and basic gaze estimation to detect if you’re frequently or consistently looking away from your computer—such as toward notes, a phone, or another person. Extended or repeated off-screen glances may be flagged as suspicious behavior and reviewed later by a human proctor or reported to your instructor. However, normal blinking, brief glances at your keyboard, or adjusting your position usually won’t trigger alerts.
The accuracy of this monitoring depends on several factors, including your webcam resolution, lighting, and whether you’re wearing glasses or have certain visual conditions. Not all proctoring services use the same level of gaze detection—some focus more on screen activity or background noise, while others prioritize head orientation over precise eye movement.
If you’re scheduled to take a proctored exam, check which software your institution uses and review its guidelines. If you have a disability, use assistive technology, or anticipate technical issues, reach out to your instructor or testing center ahead of time. Most institutions can provide accommodations to ensure fair and accessible testing conditions.
In short, while online proctoring systems can estimate where you’re looking, their main purpose is to discourage cheating—not to scrutinize every eye movement. Staying focused on your screen and following instructions will help you avoid unnecessary flags and complete your exam smoothly.