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Individualized Proctoring Services

Individualized Proctoring Services (IPS) operates as a testing service for registered DSS students approved for assistive technology testing accommodations. Testing accommodations may include access to reading and writing software and other assistive technologies. All tests are proctored to ensure academic integrity.

How to Schedule with IPS

Ensure that you have requested your accommodation letter for the current semester and selected Individualized Proctoring Services. Test reservations are only allowed for classes where this letter has been requested. Communicate with each instructor about your approved testing accommodations to determine how they will be integrated into each course.

If you intend to take your exam with IPS, it is necessary to:

Ensure the test date and the length of time for the exam is approved by your course instructor before submitting the request.
Log in to the AIM. Submit your request at least 5 business days in advance of your scheduled test.

You can modify your test appointment on AIM, if needed.
For Finals: IPS testing appointments must be scheduled two weeks (10 business days) before the final exam date and appointments are only available at either 9 am or 1:30 pm.

On the left side of the navigation panel click on Alternative Testing.
Select the class you want to schedule your exam from the drop-down menu.
Select “Schedule Exam” to view the necessary section for submitting your Exam Detail.
Enter all the required exam details.
- Appointments must start at either 30 minutes past the hour or at the hour (for example 10:00 am or 10:30 am).
- List any explanations, reasons for changes, permissions from faculty, etc. in the comments section of the exam request form, if applicable.
Click on "Add Exam Request" to finalize your request.

IPS makes every effort to accommodate your preferred date within the class schedule, however, there may be occasions where this is not feasible. IPS will contact you if needed.

Requesting Test Appointment Deadline Guide

Submit your request through AIM at least 5 business days before the test date. It is important to note that business days refer to weekdays (Monday through Friday, 8:30 am-5:00 pm), excluding weekends and holidays observed by the institution.

For instance, if your test is planned for Monday, ensure that your testing request is submitted by the previous Monday, no later than 5 pm.

If you require assistance in scheduling your appointment with IPS on AIM, contact IPS at DSSTests@howardcc.edu before your testing date.

IPS Procedures
- Present a current HCC Student ID or current government-issued picture ID.
- Food and beverages are not permitted in the Testing Room unless they are approved accommodations documented on your letter of accommodation.
- Provide the name of the instructor, course, and the title of the exam (example: Test #3).
- Put away all personal items including books, notes, pens, pencils, calculators, cell phones, electronic devices, purses, lip balm, watches, wallets, and keys.
- All pockets must be empty and cell phones must be powered OFF.
- Advanced reservation is required – we are unable to provide same-day or walk-in testing requests.
- Test timing begins at the start time of your appointment.
- Late arrivals: If you're running late, the time you're late will be deducted from your allotted test time (up to 20 minutes). You will be asked to sign the Test Administration Waiver. After 20 minutes, you will need to talk to your instructors about possibly rescheduling the exam with the IPS.
- No show: you will need to talk to your instructor(s) to see if it is possible to reschedule.
Tips to Prepare for IPS Testing
Before Testing
- Request your accommodation letter to be sent to your instructor via AIM at the start of each semester.
- You are responsible for knowing your testing details: the date, and time allotted for the exam, the title of your exam, course, etc. The details must be approved by the course instructor.
- Request your appointment through AIM at least 5 business days before your test date. If students do not make their requests according to the procedures listed above, they may not be accommodated.
- If you need to modify your request, you can modify your request on AIM.
- After you submit a request, you will get a confirmation email listing the information you submitted.
- IPS will notify you via your HCC email once we have arranged your testing appointment.
During the Test Date Appointment
- Arrive 10 minutes before your scheduled test appointment to allow enough time for setup.
- Put away all personal belongings in a locker.
- Present a current picture ID.
- Provide the name of the instructor, course, and title of the test. A proctor will then distribute your test to you.
- If you need to take a break, inform the proctor, and only use the restrooms near the suite. You are responsible for keeping track of the time while taking a break. The end time of your exam will not change, and your exam time will not pause.
- When your exam is complete, return the exam and all test items (including scrap paper) to the proctor.
After
- All test materials and notes will be sealed and returned to your instructor.
- You will have access to your grade once your instructor receives and grades your exam.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if there’s a delayed opening or snow day on the day of my exam?

In the event of a delayed opening, IPS will open at the advertised time. Testing sessions originally scheduled during or overlapping with the delayed times must be rescheduled.

In case of a snow day, IPS will be closed, and your exam must be rescheduled.
What do I do if I need to cancel my exam Appointment?

If there is a need to cancel an exam, log in to AIM and proceed to the Alternative Testing section to access your exam appointment details and make any required adjustments or cancellations.
When do I submit my request for an IPS Appointment?

Submit your request through AIM at least 5 business days before the test date.
What is the earliest timeframe allowable for scheduling exams in advance?

You are encouraged to schedule your exam at least 5 business days before the exam date. If you need to make changes, it is your responsibility to promptly modify your request in AIM. For example: if you choose to submit your exam a month before your exam, however, your instructor changes the date. You must go back to AIM and modify the request and provide enough notice for any modification.
What is the process for scheduling final exams?

IPS testing appointments must be scheduled two weeks before the final exam date, and appointments are only available at either 9 am or 1:30 pm.
What should I bring to my testing session?
You should bring:
- Current Photo ID
- Notes or other class materials, if permitted by the instructor
We will provide:
- Scantrons
- Pens
- Calculator (if approved)
- Answer booklets
- Scratch paper
- All necessary assistive technology related to approved testing accommodations
- Noise-canceling earbuds

Individualized Proctoring Services

How to Schedule with IPS

Before Testing

During the Test Date Appointment

After

Frequently Asked Questions

IPS Resources