HPAT exam online
Taking the HPAT exam online
The HPAT used to be held in-person in examination centres around the country. But since 2021, the HPAT exam has been held online via remote proctoring. This means an invigilator observes you through your webcam while you take the exam remotely on a desktop computer or laptop. Taking the exam online can be a very different experience from in-person and there are a few things you have to know about.
Requirements
- A computer with camera or webcam
- A functioning microphone (some web cameras have them built-in)
- ACER Test App
- Guardian Browser
ACER Test App
All test takers login using the email address and password used to register for HPAT - Ireland. You must install the ACER Test App on the device that you intend to sit the test with. It is important that you download and install the application prior to your scheduled test sessions as you will not be able to sit the test without having the test application on your device. Once you click on the required link the ACER Test App will automatically download and save to your desktop. The HPAT - Ireland testing icon will only appear on the home page closer to the testing window.
Guardian browser
All Test takers must download the only supported Guardian browser, prior to their HPAT - Ireland sitting. This browser is required for ProctorU to complete all the checks and view the Test taker during the test. To complete this step log in to your ACER account, click on the Log in to ProctorU button on the homepage and then click on Download Guardian Browser on the ProctorU homepage, run the downloaded file to install Guardian Browser.
What if I don’t have access to a computer?
If you are not able to access a computer please contact the HPAT - Ireland Office. ACER will operate a small test centre during the exam window to facilitate this. This centre is for test takers that do not have access to a computer, or a suitable location to sit HPAT - Ireland by remote proctoring.
Pre-testing your equipment
You must pre-check your equipment by performing a Test Your Equipment check through ProctorU. Test using the computer and internet connection that you plan to sit the test with at the location you will be doing the test from. Network firewalls at public locations such as schools, universities, workplaces or libraries may prevent access to ProctorU on your test day and the equipment test may not detect the firewalls. Computers provided by a workplace, school or institution may also have settings that prevent you from sitting the test. For these reasons you are advised to sit the test using a personal computer connected to your home network.
Troubleshooting
a) Internet Connection/Bandwidth
Testing with ProctorU requires a strong and stable internet connection to support screen sharing and remote proctoring software. Issues with stability or speed may prevent you from testing or may cause issues during your test. Try some of the tips on the ProctorU website if you’re experiencing issues with your internet. Note: Hotspots and tethering are not supported due to stability issues
b) Troubleshooting your microphone
A Microphone is required for your test so the proctor can hear you. If your microphone is not working, try some of the troubleshooting steps found on the ProctorU website.
c) Troubleshooting your webcam/camera
A camera is required for your HPAT - Ireland test so that the proctor is able to monitor your testing environment. If your camera is not working, try some of the troubleshooting steps found on the ProctorU website.
More information and technical support is available at https://hpat-ireland.acer.org/
