Remote proctoring

FA Exam is conducted via remote proctoring (meaning online). This is on your own computer, in a suitable location with internet access, under live supervision. You’ll need to complete a few steps before the test, to set yourself up for a smooth experience.

Login to ProctorU
Scheduling a sessionTechnical requirementsTroubleshootingACER Test App

Scheduling a session

Once you have completed your registration for FA Exam with ACER, you will need to create an account with ProctorU, or log into your existing account, to book your session and secure your desired test time.

  1. Create a ProctorU account, or log into your existing account using the same email address registered with ACER.

  2. Select Schedule New Session.

  3. Select the relevant cycle, the test date and your preferred time.

  4. Once you have successfully scheduled your session, you will receive an automated email from ProctorU confirming your session time.

Note: If adding a new institution to your ProctorU account, the relevant institution is Financial Adviser Exam - ACER.

Sessions are offered on a first-come first-served basis. Schedule your session with ProctorU early to secure your desired session time.

Technical requirements

For a remote proctored sitting you must have access to:

  • A personal desktop computer or laptop (iPads, tablets, mobile phones, or work/school computers are not compatible. Windows 8 (or earlier) operating systems are not supported)

  • A stable internet connection

  • A functioning microphone and webcam (some webcams have microphones built in)

  • Guardian Browser downloaded to your device

    ACER test app downloaded to your device.

You must also complete technical readiness checks by:

  • Logging into your ProctorU account (on the computer and at the exact location you plan to sit the exam at on test day)

  • Selecting ‘Test your Equipment’

  • Following the prompts

  • Viewing the system test results and actioning any issues that are identified.

You can find assistance by referring to the ProctorU test taker support library or by contacting ProctorU support. To connect to a live technician, you can also click the ProctorU Support Chat icon in the bottom-right corner of your ProctorU account.

The automated equipment check does not guarantee your equipment's functionality on exam day. There are some issues that cannot be identified by this equipment test.

Full technical requirements

Requirement type Minimum Recommended
Internet connection Wi-Fi connection Wired connection
PC users Windows 10 64-bit
(Windows 10 S mode is not supported)
Windows 10 64-bit
(Windows 10 S mode is not supported)
Mac users MacOS 11
(Oldest still maintained version)
MacOS 11
CPU 4 core CPU
(less than 85% CPU usage)
More than 4 core CPU
(less than 50% CPU usage)
Webcam 640x480 resolution 1280x720 resolution
Internet download speed 3 Mbps 12 Mbps
Internet upload speed 3 Mbps 3 Mbps
RAM 8GB
(less than 95% RAM usage)
16GB
(less than 90% RAM usage)
Connectivity ports 1935, 843, 80, 443, 61613, UDP/TCP
What does this mean?
Screen resolution 1366 x 768 1920 x 1080 and above
Web browser Guardian browser
( Download the Guardian browser )
Microphone

Functioning microphone and speakers (webcam or desktop)

Headphones, earbuds, etc. not permitted. Please contact the Financial Advisor Exam Office if you need to use headphones.

Internet connection/bandwidth

Completing your test via remote proctoring 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 assessment.

Open or public networks, (often found at workplaces/schools/universities), mobile hotspots, or connections requiring VPNs or geoblockers must not be used to sit your test.

Supported browsers

Ensure you have installed the Guardian Browser. Click on the Guardian Browser link and follow the steps to download.

Unsupported items

  • Microsoft Edge browser

  • Google Chromebooks (for Live Proctoring only)

  • Tablets (Nexus, iPad, Tab, Note, etc.)

  • Smartphones

  • Linux operating systems

  • Windows 10 in S mode or Surface RT

  • Connecting from within a virtual machine. You will be asked to reconnect using your host operating system to take your exam

  • Apple Boot Camp

  • Remote Access Software/Tools

  • Inactive Version of Windows and Test Builds/Test Mode

  • All forms of remote control software, such as TeamViewer, AnyDesk, etc. are not permitted and should be uninstalled prior to your sitting.

Troubleshooting

To successfully complete your test via remote proctoring, thorough technical preparation is essential.

While ACER and ProctorU can offer support on the day of the test, issues arising from inadequate preparation may lead to an inability to complete your scheduled test. If you experience technical issues that prevent you from sitting, email the FA Exam Office immediately.

Troubleshooting your microphone

A microphone is required for your assessment so that the proctor can hear you. If your microphone is not working, try some of the microphone troubleshooting steps found on the ProctorU website.

Troubleshooting your webcam/camera

A camera is required so that the proctor is able to monitor your testing environment. If your camera is not working, try some of the camera troubleshooting steps found on the ProctorU website.

Man in suit working on a laptop and using a calculator

What if I have technical issues or something goes wrong during my test session?

If you have technical issues or something goes wrong during your test the proctor will try and help you. If the issues are related to technology they will transfer your session to a technical support team member. It is important to remain calm. You may eat, and use the bathroom while this is happening. If you do leave your computer while technical issues are being resolved, it is a good idea to have someone watch your computer for you in case you are required to action something on your side. It is important that you contact the FA Exam Office immediately if you experience technical issues.

ACER Test App

The ACER Test App is the secure platform used to access the test. Before your test day, you must download and install the ACER Test App on the device you intend to use to sit the test.

Open book resources are accessed within the ACER Test App.

Please note that your login for the test app will not work until the day of your test, when you are connected to a proctor.

If you have a previous version of the test app installed on your device, you must uninstall it and then install the latest version.

Download the ACER Test App

Windows 7 or higher

Double click on the exec file to install this version.  If you see the message "Windows protected your PC" > click More Info. When a new message open > click Run Anyway

For MacOS X 11 or higher

To install MAC version - right click in the DMG file and click OPEN

For Apple Mac with the M1 chip & newer

Mac Gatekeeper can block the ACER Test App. This will look like the app not opening or running correctly. If this happens, please follow the instructions on how to run the ACER Test app:

Open a Mac App from an unidentified developer

Common questions

How do I check the ACER Test App is working?

To check that the installation was successful, launch the ACER Test App.

You should see the FA exam login page. Please note you will NOT be able to login to the ACER online test application until your scheduled test session.

Unable to download the ACER Test App?

If you are unable to install the ACER Test App on your computer, the cause could be, but is not limited to, firewall or antivirus issues. Check your browsers for any updates and update your computer first then try again to download the ACER Test App. If you are still experiencing issues, please contact us at faexam@acer.org.

Please note these restrictions are beyond ACER’s control.

ACER acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.