Secure Testing Overview
Learn about CTSO Central's Secure Testing System for browser-isolated exam delivery.
Overview
The Secure Testing System (STS) provides a controlled environment for delivering exams to students. It supports multiple security levels, from open-practice exams to fully proctored sessions with webcam monitoring, ensuring exam integrity for competitive events at every level.
Security Levels
STS offers five security levels. The level is configured per exam and determines what restrictions are enforced during the test session.
| Level | Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 0 | Practice | No restrictions. Intended for familiarization and study sessions. |
| 1 | Standard | Basic browser lockdown. Navigation away from the exam is restricted. |
| 2 | Enhanced | Additional monitoring and move-away detection. Violations are flagged for proctor review. |
| 3 | High Security | Requires the isolated desktop client. The exam runs in a locked-down environment. |
| 4 | Proctored | Isolated client plus proctor-controlled start/stop for testing windows. |
Security levels 3 and 4 require students to use the dedicated secure browser on Windows, macOS, or ChromeOS. Levels 0 through 2 work in a standard web browser.
Workflow Overview
A typical secure testing workflow follows these steps:
- Create an Exam -- define the exam content, questions, timing, and security level.
- Create a Test Session -- schedule an instance of the exam for a specific group of test takers.
- Assign Proctors (if applicable) -- designate staff members to monitor the session in real time.
- Students Take the Exam -- students join the session using an access code, and the exam is delivered according to the configured security level.
- Monitor the Session -- proctors use the Proctor Dashboard to track progress, respond to security alerts, and manage individual sessions.
- Review Results -- after the session completes, scores and completion data are available for review.
Who Can Access STS
- National Admins and Association Admins can create and manage exams and test sessions.
- Proctors can monitor active sessions and respond to security events.
- Students (members) access the test-taker interface to complete their exams.
Sub-pages
- Exam Management -- create exams, add questions, and configure security settings
- Proctoring -- monitor active sessions and respond to security alerts