Computer Examination Frequently Asked Questions

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Who is ExamSoft?

ExamSoft Worldwide, Inc. is a software developer specializing in computerized assessment and assessment administration programs.

What is SofTest from ExamSoft?

SofTest is a high stakes assessment program developed and licensed by ExamSoft that enables exam takers to securely take examinations downloaded to their own laptop computers by blocking access to files, programs, and the Internet during an exam. ExamSoft's solution is an Internet-based exam delivery option. Using SofTest, you will download your exam(s) prior to exam day and upload your answer(s) after the exam via the Internet. You WILL NOT require Internet connectivity during your exam(s). You WILL require Internet connectivity to download your exam(s) and upload your answer(s).

Will SofTest work on my computer?

SofTest operates on any PC running Windows XP, Windows Vista, and Windows 7. A native Mac version of SofTest is now available as well. SofTest is not compatible with any virtual machine software such as VMware Fusion or Parallels. The minimum recommended system requirements are:

Windows:

CPU = 1 GHz Pentium III or Industry Equivalent
RAM = 1 GB
Hard Drive = 50 MB of free space
Operating System = 32-bit Versions of Windows XP, Windows Vista, and Windows 7 and 64-bit Versions of Windows Vista and Windows 7
Software = Internet Browser 7.0 or later
Minimum Screen Resolution = 1024 x 768
Internet Connection: An Internet connection is required for SofTest Installation, Exam Download and Upload
When taking any secure exam, disable the antivirus software before taking the exam and re-enable it after exiting your exam

Mac:

CPU = Intel processor
RAM = 512 MB
Drives = 50 MB or higher free disk space
Operating System = MAC OS X 10.5.8 or 10.6 (Leopard or Snow Leopard) and Mac OS X 10.7 (Lion)
Software = Internet browser. Internet connection for SofTest installations, Exam Download and Upload
Administrator level account permissions

How reliable is SofTest?

SofTest has a considerable number of safety features to ensure that answers typed into SofTest cannot be lost. They include:

An AutoSave feature that automatically saves your exam every sixty seconds.
Multiple encrypted backup copies of the exam answer file are saved.
The ability to undo up to 50 of the previous actions per essay question window.

If I used SofTest last year, do I have to perform all steps again?

You will need to return to www.examsoft.com/washburnlaw to download and register the latest version of SofTest.

Can I practice using SofTest before the exam?

Yes. After registering SofTest, launch the program by double-clicking the SofTest icon on your Windows Desktop or single-click the SofTest icon from the Applications folder or Dock on your Mac. Click "DOWNLOAD EXAM FILES," enter your ID and password, choose Mock exam from the dropdown menu and click download. After the file is downloaded click the "LAUNCH SOFTEST" button, select the Mock exam from the dropdown menu, and click start to begin the exam. This enables you to familiarize yourself with the SofTest exam environment. The mock exam can be saved and uploaded.

What Should I do Prior to Exam Day?

Register SofTest on the computer you intend to use on exam day by the deadline.
Ensure: (1) that your computer meets the specifications listed above, (2) that there is plenty of free hard drive space, (3) that your computer is virus free, and (4) that your computer is free of disk errors by running SCANDISK (click Start Button, Programs, Accessories, System Tools, Scandisk or Disk Cleanup).
Once you have installed and registered SofTest, familiarize yourself with the software by taking the Mock exam.
Download your exams. SofTest FlexSite users (i.e. students who download their exams from the Internet) will need to use the Student ID number and password submitted during the registration process.
Locate your A/C - battery power indicator light on your laptop to determine which light indicates you are running on A/C power (i.e. power from a wall outlet).
Ensure that your battery has at least 20 minutes of charge in it prior to the exam in the event there is a temporary power outage.
If you encounter issues in your use of SofTest, visit support.examsoft.com

What Must I do on Exam Day?

Bring your power cord, battery (in the event of power loss), and an extension cord. If you normally use an external keyboard and mouse or if you need earplugs, you may bring those as well.
Arrive to the exam room at least 15 minutes early, plug your computer into a power outlet, turn on the computer, and begin the launching process.
Immediately before SofTest launches the exam, you will be provided a warning screen with RED STOP SIGNS indicating that you should not begin the exam until instructed to do so. Heed this warning.
Exams will not be delayed or suspended due to computer problems.
During the exam, use care when highlighting and deleting.
Students who do not take the time to become familiar with their laptop computer or with word processing functions, should consider handwriting their exams. No administrative relief will be granted for incorrect use of the software.
Once you register your copy of SofTest, the school will be charged the license fee.
Do not uninstall SofTest until you receive your exam scores at the end of the academic year.
DO NOT ATTEMPT TO RESOLVE COMPUTER ISSUES ON YOUR OWN. ASK FOR THE ASSISTANCE OF A PROCTOR IMMEDIATELY.
ANY ATTEMPT TO DISABLE OR TAMPER WITH SOFTEST'S SECURITY FEATURES WILL BE CONSIDERED A VIOLATION OF THE STUDENT HONOR CODE. IT IS YOUR RESPONSIBILITY TO FAMILIARIZE YOURSELF WITH YOUR EQUIPMENT AND THE SOFTEST SOFTWARE AND INSTRUCTIONS PROVIDED BY EXAMSOFT ON ITS WEBSITE PRIOR TO THE START OF YOUR EXAM. PLEASE ALLOW YOURSELF SUFFICIENT TIME TO BECOME FAMILIAR WITH YOUR LAPTOP AND THE APPLICATION. COMMENCEMENT OF THE EXAM WILL NOT BE DELAYED DUE TO A HARDWARE PROBLEM WITH YOUR LAPTOP.