Yes, proctored exams do record you—in nearly all cases, both your screen activity and your physical environment are captured via video, audio, and sometimes even keystroke or mouse movement tracking. This recording is a core feature of online proctoring systems, designed to uphold academic integrity and deter cheating.
When you take a proctored exam through platforms like Respondus Monitor, ProctorU, Examity, or Honorlock, you’ll be required to grant access to your webcam and microphone. From the moment you begin the check-in process—showing your ID, scanning your room, and launching the test—your session is continuously recorded. This includes:
- Video of your face and surroundings (to ensure you’re alone and not using unauthorized materials),
- Audio of your environment (to detect talking, background voices, or use of voice assistants),
- And screen activity (to monitor for unauthorized tabs, apps, or copying).
Even in AI-only proctoring (with no live human watching), the entire session is saved and may be reviewed later by an instructor or proctor if the system flags suspicious behavior—such as looking away from the screen repeatedly, unusual sounds, or multiple faces appearing.
In live-proctored exams, a real person may watch you in real time, but the session is still recorded for audit purposes. These recordings are typically stored securely for weeks or months, depending on institutional policy.
It’s important to note: you must consent to being recorded as part of the exam agreement. Declining usually means you cannot proceed with the test.
To stay compliant, take your exam in a quiet, private space with good lighting, and avoid any behavior that could be misinterpreted—like reading aloud, glancing off-screen, or having someone nearby.
Take away:
In short, yes—proctored exams record you. This is standard practice across virtually all remote testing platforms. Understanding that proctored exams record you helps you prepare appropriately and avoid accidental violations. Always assume you’re on camera and microphone from start to finish. Because when it comes to academic integrity, transparency is non-negotiable—and that’s why proctored exams record you.