What is a proctor?
A proctor is responsible for maintaining the academic integrity of the exam process for Penn State World Campus students. Penn State requires written proctor verification to ensure academic integrity and to maintain accreditation by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools. If the proctor believes that academic integrity has been comprised during the exam process, the instructor will be notified and must decide on appropriate action that is consistent with the University’s policy on academic integrity.
How do I find a proctor?
If you live near Penn State’s University Park campus exams are offered through the Outreach Testing Center. If you live near another Penn State campus, contact us about campus proctors. If you don’t live near a Penn State campus, you will need to:
- Arrange to have your exam(s) supervised by a qualified and approved proctor. Certain people, such as family members or relatives, cannot proctor exams, but there are many people who can.
- Submit a completed Proctor Information Form.
- Be sure to include verification of your proctor’s position along with the form.
- Concurrently, submit a Request for Examination Form. (You can find this form in your course on ANGEL.)
- Once we receive all of your documentation and approval information, you will receive an e-mail from records@outreach.psu.edu to your Penn State email account.
- Proctor approval is valid for 2 years.
- If the position, name, or location of your proctor changes within this time, you’ll need to notify us to ensure this person can continue proctoring for you.
How do I change my proctor?
If you would like to select a new proctor, please review our proctor guidelines to ensure that your new proctor is qualified. If the individual meets the requirements, you will need to submit the Proctor Information Form and the specified supporting documentation.
What have other World Campus students done?
Many World Campus students have found resourceful and unique ways to take exams with proctors, while juggling other life events. One student had a local librarian proctor his exams. While he was taking the test, his children were able to enjoy themselves in the children’s area of their local library. It was the perfect way to take an exam without having to hire a babysitter. This example, among many others, proves how you can get creative when choosing a proctor.
Did you find a proctor in a creative or interesting way? Let us know through a comment!