invigilation

Invigilation is the supervision of examinations to uphold fairness, security, and orderly conduct. An invigilator (also called a proctor) monitors candidates before, during, and after a test, enforces examination rules, and responds to incidents. Invigilation is a standard feature of formal assessments in schools, universities, and professional bodies, and may occur in person or via remote proctoring for online exams.

On-site invigilation involves verifying candidate identities, assigning seating, distributing question papers and answer sheets, timing the examination, and collecting materials at the end. The invigilator observes for signs of cheating, disruption, or unauthorized materials, enforces restrictions (such as mobile phones and calculators where prohibited), helps candidates with access needs, and follows procedures for handling emergencies, questions, or irregularities, including reporting incidents to examination boards.

Remote invigilation, or online proctoring, uses software or services to monitor candidates at a distance. This may include identity verification, screen and webcam monitoring, and activity logging during the exam. Policies specify permitted devices, allowed breaks, and privacy safeguards. Failures to comply may trigger flagged events or disqualification, with procedures for appeal and post-exam review.

Invigilation often requires training in examination regulations, security procedures, and equal-access considerations. In some regions invigilators are employed by schools, examination boards, or contracted agencies. The practice varies by jurisdiction and exam type, with ongoing debates about privacy, stress, and reliability balanced against the need to prevent cheating and protect results.