Exams On Computers

Some professors allow their students to take their exams on a computer as opposed to handwriting the exam. If you opt to do so, you will be using specialized testing software called Securexam. Essentially, it is a basic version of Microsoft Word with special features to ensure stability, security and ample backups.

Prepare your Computer

If you are taking your exam on your own laptop (rather than on one of the Law School’s PCs) or if you want to have the program on your own computer at home to familiarize yourself with its features, then you need to install the Securexam program.

There are a few things you should do to prepare your computer for the installation of the exam software:

• Verify that you can connect to the wired network at school (not wireless) using your laptop. More info on NetReg.
• If you suspect that your system is infected with a VIRUS or SPYWARE, please go to the Help Desk page to get information about scanning your computer. Your laptop must be free from all problems before taking an exam.
• Check that your computer has the latest Windows Updates.
• Run SCANDISK on your computer. You can use ScanDisk to check your hard disk for logical and physical errors. ScanDisk can then repair the damaged areas. Start ScanDisk by clicking Start| Programs| Accessories| System Tools and then click ScanDisk. Be sure to select the option for a Thorough scan as opposed to the Standard scan. This may take 30-60 minutes to complete so please allow appropriate time.
• Run DISK DEFRAGMENTER on your computer. You can use Disk Defragmenter to rearrange files and unused space on your hard disk so that programs run faster. You start Disk Defragmenter by clicking Start| Programs| Accessories| System Tools and then click Disk Defragmenter. The program may indicate that your hard drive is not significantly fragmented and does not need to be defragmented. NOTE: ALWAYS run ScanDisk on your computer before you run the Disk Defragmenter program.

Downloading and Installing Securexam

• When downloading Securexam, try to do so while on campus or from somewhere with a fast internet connection. (NetID required)
• Securexam for Microsoft Windows users
• Securexam for Apple Macintosh users
• Double-click on the downloaded file to install Securexam. Follow the prompts to install the program. When installation is complete, you may need to restart your system.
• Double-click on the Securexam Student shortcut. When asked to activate the program, enter your Peoplesoft/StudentAdmin ID(7-digit number) as the Student ID. You need to be connected to the internet during the activation process. If connecting from the school, use only the wired network (do not use wireless) to activate and submit exams.

Take a Practice Exam

1. In Securexam, enter any number for Exam ID.
2. From Course and Prof Name, select "Practice".
3. When finished, click on File > Exit.
4. Your Practice Exam will be submitted to the exam server. Make sure that you are connected to the internet before ending your test. If connecting from the school, use only the wired network (do not use wireless) to activate and submit exams.

If you have any problems during your Practice Exam or submitting your test, contact the Help Desk.

Securexam System Requirements

1. Microsoft Windows 2000/XP/Vista
2. Mac OSX v10.3 or above
3. Internet connection