Computer-Based Testing Considerations

1. Computer Based Testing is provided as a convenience to candidates to afford them the opportunity to test on almost any day of the year and at many locations across the country. However, Computer Based Testing also means that computer-related problems can occur. The most common are delays in beginning the examination due to technical problems. 
   1. The NARM Examination appointment schedule includes time for check-in and set up at the test site. Candidates may not begin the examination until all check-in and technical processes involved in the test administration have been completed. This process can on occasion take as long as 30- 60 minutes. June 2025 
   2. The timed portion of the test administration, the timed period during which candidates actually see and respond to examination questions, is not affected by the amount of time needed for check-in and set-up. Test results, including start time and completion time, are submitted electronically to NARM’s testing company. In the unlikely event of a delay long enough to prevent completion of the examination in a single day, a complaint may be submitted to NARM’s testing company for an adjustment in the examination retake requirements. 
   3. A delay in the start of an examination that could have been or was completed the same day is not a basis for an appeal of test results or an adjustment in the examination retake process. 
   4. If there is any situation during testing that causes concern, it is the candidate’s responsibility to bring it to the attention of the proctor at the time and ask that NARM’s testing company be contacted immediately.
2. Cancellation or invalidation of the exam score. A test score can be canceled if: a. there has been a violation of NARM policies, b. information submitted by the candidate is inaccurate or has been falsified, c. there is evidence suggesting that the test score may not represent a fair or valid assessment of a candidate’s knowledge. (This could happen for any of several reasons including suspected cheating, violation of test center rules, software or equipment malfunction during the test administration, etc.) If NARM determines that a computer malfunction produced an invalid score, the candidate may be asked to retake the exam at no charge. 
3. If a candidate is using live remote proctoring for taking the exam, the computer must sync adequately with the testing company technology. The time allowed for testing includes time that is needed for registration, identity verification, and the syncing of the technology. It is also possible for the internet connection to require a reboot or re-sync during the testing period. The proctor or testing company personnel will walk the candidate through the process. Difficulties with technology may delay the time actually spent answering questions, but the time allowed is generous and should not prevent the candidate from completing the exam. Delays caused by technology do not invalidate the final score. A failing score will require a retest.