What is online proctoring and what types are there?

Proctoring means supervising an exam. Online proctoring is supervising an exam that a learner takes remotely, usually at home, to check that they are who they say they are and that they follow the rules.

Main types:

1. Live proctoring. A person watches learners in real time through webcam and screen sharing, often in a video session with a small group. It is close to a supervised exam room, but it needs staff for every session. 2. Recorded proctoring. Webcam, microphone and/or screen are recorded during the exam, and someone reviews the recording later, often only when there is a doubt. 3. Automated proctoring. Software analyses the recording and flags events, such as another face in the picture, the learner looking away or voices in the room. A human should review the flags; software alone produces false alarms. 4. Lockdown browser. Not supervision as such, but often grouped with it: a browser like Safe Exam Browser blocks other apps and websites during the exam.

Simpler options also exist: an ID check at the start, or holding the exam in a computer room.

Trade-offs to consider:

• Privacy and law. Webcam monitoring at home is intrusive. In the EU, biometric identification such as facial recognition faces strict limits. The Spanish data protection authority sanctioned a university in 2025 for mandatory facial-recognition proctoring (see the separate question).
• Fairness. Learners need a suitable device, a quiet space and a good connection. Offer an alternative for those who cannot.
• Proportionality. Match the level of supervision to the stakes of the exam. A practice quiz does not need the same control as a certification exam.

Automated proctoring is available on request for organisations that need it, after looking at these questions.