Online Respondus exams
Find out how to prepare for Respondus exams and what to do if you have technology issues.
We know that doing exams in person can be difficult for some students, especially those who live a long way from campus. That’s why some courses have the option of online exams. If you're in this situation, you might be required to use a program called Respondus LockDown Browser (usually just referred to as Respondus) for your end-of-semester tests. This platform makes it easy to confirm your identity and complete timed assessments securely at home.
The Respondus exam process
Access a desktop or laptop computer
Respondus doesn't work on a phone or tablet, so you'll need to use a desktop or laptop computer. If you don't own one, you can book a Resondus computer at one of our campus libraries.
Maximise your internet connection
Your connection will be more reliable if you plug your computer directly into your modem rather than use a wi-fi signal.
Prepare your exam space
Make sure you've got a quiet and private space ready for exam day. You'll be recorded during the exam, so remove any objects you don't want in shot. If your house isn't suitable, you might be able to book a room at your local library or Federation campus.
Do a practice exam
The best way to prepare for online exams is to do a practice exam. This isn't just about practising unit content – it's about familiarising yourself with the Respondus system and making sure your technology works.
Practice exams will generally appear in your unit Moodle shells a few weeks before the exam period. Your lecturer should let you know when they're ready to access.
At least a week before your actual exam, log into Moodle, open the relevant unit, navigate to your practice exam and follow the prompts to download 'Respondus LockDown Browser'. Go through the pre-exam checks (outlined under the 'On exam day' section below) and make sure the technology functions. If you have any problems, let your coordinator know straightaway.
Dress appropriately
Remember that you'll be recorded during your exam and you need to match your photo ID, so don't wear anything that obscures your face (like a hat or sunglasses).
Have your photo ID ready
You'll need to prove your identity before you sit your exam. You can use your driver licence, passport or Federation University student ID card.
Clear your space
Remove any objects you don't need (including second monitors) and close unnecessary computer programs and browser windows. Respondus will remind you to quit applications before you start your exam.
Log into Moodle to access your exam
Log into Moodle ten minutes before your scheduled exam time, open the unit and select your exam link.
Complete the pre-exam checks
If you're required to record yourself during your exam, a startup sequence will guide you through a webcam and microphone check. You might also need to do an environment check to give a 360-degree view of your space. If so, pick up your camera/laptop, pan slowly 180 degrees to your left, return to your starting point then pan 180 degrees to your right.
Do the exam
The exam timer will begin after the startup sequence is complete. There is no separate reading time for an online exam. Your answers will save automatically as you go, but it’s still a good idea to regularly manually save. Don't exit Resondus until you've submitted your work at the end.
Bathroom breaks
If you need a break during the exam, state this to the camera (including the time, which question you've just completed and that you won't access electronic devices or study aids while you're gone). Leave the webcam recording and state the time to the camera when you get back. Keep in mind that if you take lots of breaks, an academic misconduct notification may be issued.
Error message on a Mac
Most errors on Macs are due to an outdated operating system. Make sure your computer has the latest version of Mac OSX installed.
Bluetooth devices won't connect
Bluetooth devices should work normally with Respondus. If not, try using a wired keyboard and mouse.
Webcam isn't working
If you're using Windows, run the Camera app to check your webcam. If you're on a Mac, make sure the browser has permission to access your microphone and webcam.
Password request
You shouldn't need a password to access your exam, so ignore any requests. If you can't get past a password prompt, contact your unit coordinator.
Error message about settings
Take a screenshot and send it to your unit coordinator. You could also try logging out of Moodle and back in again. If that works, go ahead and do your exam. Don't worry about updating your coordinator until after you've finished.
Respondus quits unexpectedly
This could be caused by your security settings. If you have an anti-virus program installed, allow temporary access to Respondus. If you're using a Mac, try running it in Safe Mode.
Computer freezes during your exam
Don't panic. Respondus will save you work automatically at regular intervals. Take a photo of the screen, then try restarting your computer. If this doesn't work, contact your coordinator.
Unexpected error when submitting your exam
Take a photo of the error message and note the time. Close Respondus and go back into your unit (in Moodle), then check your quiz submissions to see if your attempt was recorded.
Privacy protection
Respondus is fully committed to our privacy policy. This means your information won't be shared with any third parties. Only your teaching team and technical support staff will have access to the recording of your exam (unless there's a need to investigate academic misconduct, in which case authorised University staff may also review it).
For more details, read the Respondus Privacy Policy and Students Terms of Use.
