Technical Access & Performance Policy

Effective Date: February 27, 2025

Policy ID: CPS-TECH-2025-02

1.0 Introduction and Candidate Responsibility

This policy outlines the minimum technical and environmental requirements necessary for all candidates to successfully access the Council on Pharmacy Standards (CPS) online platform and participate in our live remote proctored (LRP) examinations.

It is the sole responsibility of the candidate to ensure their computer, internet connection, and testing environment meet these requirements prior to their scheduled examination appointment. Failure to meet these minimum standards may result in the inability to start or complete your examination, which may lead to a forfeiture of your examination fees. We strongly recommend you review this policy in its entirety and perform the mandatory pre-exam system check well in advance of your test date.

2.0 Minimum System Requirements

To ensure a stable and secure testing experience, your computer hardware must meet or exceed the following specifications.

2.1 Supported Operating Systems

  • Windows: Windows 10 or Windows 11 (64-bit).

  • macOS: macOS 11 (Big Sur) or a newer version.

Unsupported Systems: The following are strictly prohibited and will not work with our secure testing platform:

  • Linux, ChromeOS, Android, and iOS operating systems.

  • Tablets (including iPad, Surface Pro), mobile phones, and other mobile devices.

  • Computers running in virtualized environments (e.g., VMware, Parallels).

2.2 Computer Hardware

  • Processor: Intel Core i3 (or equivalent) running at 2.0 GHz or faster.

  • RAM: A minimum of 8 GB of RAM is required.

  • Hard Drive: At least 1 GB of free storage space for the secure browser application.

  • Screen Resolution: A minimum screen resolution of 1024 x 768. Dual monitors are prohibited; you must disconnect any additional monitors before launching the exam.

  • Administrative Privileges: You must have administrative rights on the computer to allow for the installation of and granting of permissions to the secure proctoring software. For this reason, using an employer-issued computer is strongly discouraged, as they often have security restrictions that can interfere with the testing software.

2.3 Required Peripherals

  • Webcam: A working internal or external webcam is required. The webcam must be able to be moved to show the proctor your entire testing environment (a 360-degree room scan).

  • Microphone: A working internal or external microphone is required for communication with the proctor.

  • Speakers: Working internal or external speakers are required to hear the proctor.

  • Headsets: Headsets, headphones, and earbuds (wired or wireless) are strictly prohibited during the examination for security purposes.

3.0 Internet and Software Requirements 

A stable internet connection and properly configured software are critical for a successful exam session.

3.1 Internet Connection

  • Speed: A stable broadband internet connection with a minimum speed of 10 Mbps download and 5 Mbps upload.

  • Connection Type: A wired Ethernet connection is strongly recommended for maximum stability.

  • Prohibited Connections: Unstable internet connections will likely cause issues during your exam. The use of the following is not recommended:

    • Public Wi-Fi (e.g., libraries, coffee shops).

    • Mobile hotspots.

    • Satellite-based internet connections.

3.2 Software

  • Web Browser: The most recent version of Google Chrome is required for accessing the CPS platform and launching the exam.

  • Proctoring Software: You will be required to download and install a secure browser application provided by our proctoring service. This software must be installed and tested before your exam day.

  • Firewalls and VPNs: You must disable any Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) and corporate or personal firewalls prior to launching the exam. Antivirus software may also need to be temporarily disabled if it interferes with the secure testing application.

4.0 Testing Environment Requirements 

Your physical testing environment must meet the following standards to ensure a secure and valid examination.

  • Location: You must be in a private, quiet, and well-lit room for the entire duration of the exam. No other individuals are permitted to be in or enter the room.

  • Workspace: Your desk or workspace must be completely cleared of all unauthorized items, including papers, books, notes, mobile phones, watches, bags, and any other personal belongings.

  • Candidate Visibility: You must remain seated and fully visible to the webcam for the entire exam session. Your face, shoulders, and upper torso must be in the frame at all times.

  • Room and Desk Scan: At the beginning of your exam session, the proctor will require you to use your webcam to perform a complete 360-degree scan of your room and a thorough scan of your desk area. Failure to comply will result in the termination of your exam.

5.0 Mandatory Pre-Exam System Check 

All candidates are required to perform a system check to verify that their computer, network, and peripherals are compatible with the testing platform.

  • A link to the system check tool will be provided in your exam scheduling confirmation email.

  • You must run this check on the exact same computer and network you intend to use on your exam day.

  • We strongly recommend you run the system check at least three (3) days prior to your appointment to allow adequate time for troubleshooting or to secure a different computer if necessary.

6.0 Disclaimer of Liability

CPS is not responsible for technical failures related to a candidate’s hardware, software, internet connection, or testing environment. It is the candidate’s responsibility to ensure all requirements in this policy are met. If a candidate is unable to start or complete their exam due to a failure to meet these requirements, exam fees will not be refunded or transferred. By scheduling an examination, you acknowledge and agree to the terms outlined in this policy.