Taking CSCA at home requires a computer, a second camera and a private room. Set them up early and run the checks with the equipment you will actually use. That leaves time to replace a device or resolve a connection problem.
As checked on 23 October 2026, the official rules require both an individual system test and at least one organised mock session. Use your session notice for the testing times and current client version.
Check the computer first
The official instructions list 64-bit Windows 10/11 or Windows 7 SP1 and above. macOS is unsupported. Only one physical display is allowed; additional external monitors, remote desktops and cloud computers are prohibited.
The instructions also restrict virtualisation, including Hyper-V, Windows Sandbox, WSL/WSL2 and VBS. If the client will not run, ask CSCA support about compatibility before exam day. Agree any necessary changes with the owner of a borrowed or work computer.
Recommended specifications include a screen of at least 1366×768 and 4 GB of memory; the client partition needs at least 2 GB free. The camera must provide at least 720p, with 1080p recommended. A desktop needs speakers and a microphone. Wireless headphones are prohibited.
Position the second camera
Use a phone or tablet that can open the official second-camera portal in its browser. Prepare a stable stand and power supply.
Place it roughly 45° behind and to the side, about 1–1.5 metres away and slightly above shoulder height. It must show your upper body, computer screen and hands. Check the view while sitting in your normal working position.
The instructions specify flight mode followed by reconnecting Wi-Fi, together with Do Not Disturb, to prevent calls interrupting monitoring.
Test the connection through the exam system
Requirements include at least 20 Mbps upload and download, with a system connection of at least 500 KB/s. Wired access and a prepared backup 4G connection are recommended.
Use the built-in check. Comfortable video streaming does not test the same combination of two cameras and the examination client. VPNs, proxies and tools that alter or hide the connection or IP address are prohibited.
Prepare the room and rough-work tools
Use a quiet, well-lit, enclosed private room. Nobody else may enter during the exam. Public spaces and rooms containing other candidates are unsuitable.
The instructions place the desk in a corner against two walls, with the candidate facing the wall. Remove unrelated materials and keep permitted items visible.
Rough work may use a small whiteboard or a blank sheet inside a transparent sleeve with an erasable marker. Ordinary loose notes, notebooks, pencils and ballpoint pens are not allowed. Show the tools for inspection and erase the work in the invigilator’s presence afterwards.
Complete both checks
The individual test checks the client, cameras, microphone and network. The organised mock checks the supervised process; the current rules require completion of at least one such session.
Save the time zone, testing appointment and support details. Report an unresolved technical problem early and repeat the check after fixing it.
On the day
The client opens 60 minutes before the test. The latest permitted login is 30 minutes before the start. Have your original identity document and admission ticket ready, with matching details, and follow equipment, identity and room checks.
For a technical problem, use the invigilator-call button on the second device and follow instructions. After successful submission, show and erase the rough work. Keep the client files until results are released, as instructed.
Return to subject practice once the setup is working. See the registration guide and subject preparation overview for the next steps.
