In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the ABGC Board of Directors is pleased to announce the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA) has approved ABGC to offer live remote proctoring for the examination. 

Processes and Procedures
There are two steps for those granted Active Candidate Status to follow for the live remote proctoring:

• Apply

  • Candidates who elect to take the American Board of Genetics Examination with a live remote proctor should apply by using the guidelines explained in the Exam Bulletin​.

• ​Schedule the Exam Appointment

  • When scheduling their examination, candidates will choose to take the exam in a testing center or using a live remote proctor. Those with previously scheduled examination appointments will be contacted by PSI with instructions for changing formats if needed or requested.

About Live Remote Proctoring
Live remote proctored candidates will have a live proctor confirm the testing environment and view and listen to the full testing session. Proctors will have the ability to chat with candidates and provide warnings during the session.
 
Candidates using live remote proctoring must:  

• Have a confimed appointment with instructions for logging into the PSI online system

• Have a computer with a webcam and microphone, with the ability to download a secure browser

  • Visit the PSI website to access an online compatibility check tool prior to the exam

• Provide a quiet, private, wel-lit room that is well-lit and free from distracting background noise

  • Note: no one else is allowed in the room during the examination period

• Scan the entire testing environment with a webcam for the assigned proctor, including a scan of your keyboard and above and under the computer desk 

Exam Check In, Launch and Completion

• Upon login, candidates will be greeted by a PSI test administrator and will be asked to present a photo ID to the web cam

• All exam restrictions for test center appointments apply also to live remote proctoring (e.g., no food or drink, no cell phones, etc.), as outlined in the Exam Bulletin

• Once an exam is completed, the score report will appear on screen and will be sent to the email address used for registration via a secured email program. For more information on how a live remote proctoring session works view PSI’s video. PSI has support available 24/7 via phone, email or chat.

Live Remote Proctoring Infractions
As with appointments in a testing center, there are actions and behaviors that are not allowed during a live remote proctored appointment. These include:

• Creating a disturbance, being abusive or otherwise uncooperative

• Displaying or useing electronic communications equipment such as cell phone or pager

• Talking or participating in conversation with other examination candidates

• Giving or receiving help

• Leaving the test center or exiting the camera view during the examination

• Attempting to record examination questions

• Attempting to take the examination for someone else

• Is observed with personal belongings

• Is observed with notes, books or other aids not noted on the roster

Testing Center Process
For individuals taking the exam in a testing center, confirm requirements to ensure compliance with any COVID-19 procedures. PSI will allow individuals to bring and use personal gloves and face masks (they will not be provided by PSI). Face masks will need to be removed momentarily while the system takes the candidate’s photo which is printed on the score report. 
 
For additional information on the American Board of Genetics Examination, peview the Exam Bulletin, or contact ABGC staff at info@abgc.net. For additional questions and answers regarding live remote proctoring, click here.