Taking the SLS at home

Download the ETS Secure Browser by selecting one of the links below.

• Download the Mac^® OS version
• Download the Windows^® version

Then run the file to complete the installation. Once you open the ETS Secure Browser, you'll be brought to a welcome screen. From there, you can run the Equipment Check. Upon completion of the Equipment Check, you'll see the status of your equipment. If any parts have failed, you'll see a red triangle status indicator, as well as tips for how to resolve the problem.

All issues must be resolved before your appointment time.

• Close all browsers and applications not needed for the test. Doing so can help prevent bandwidth issues while you test.
• Make sure any other devices in your home that use the internet aren’t running.
• Disable any screen-sharing or remote-access software prior to the test. It must remain disabled throughout the test and should be set so that the software will not open automatically during the test.
• Gather the following materials for your test session. (All other materials are prohibited.)
  • Passport or other acceptable ID
  • Acceptable note-taking materials, such as a whiteboard or plastic transparency sheet, that can be erased in view of the proctor
  • Cellphone or hand-held mirror for check in
• Make sure your testing area meets all environment requirements, including:
  • The room is quiet and well lit.
  • The table and surrounding area are clear.
  • Your table and chair are positioned so that the door to the room will be visible to the proctor.
• Make sure you’re dressed appropriately, with your ears and face visible to the proctor. Avoid wearing any jewelry or other accessories.
• Face masks may not be worn during check in or any part of the at home testing session.

Checking in for your SLS test at home will take about 20 minutes. Follow these steps for your appointment.

• Up to 15 minutes prior to your appointment time, you may begin your check-in. Refer to the instructions in your confirmation email or the home page of your account to begin your appointment. You'll have up to 12 minutes after your scheduled time to begin your check in. If you haven't checked in by that time, your test will be canceled, and your fee will not be refunded.
• Select “Start Check-in.”
• Complete the Wheebox system check.
• Share your screen with the proctor.
• Take a photo of yourself and your identification (ID). The name on your ID must match the name on your account. The proctor will verify and approve your photo and ID.
• The proctor will review the exam rules.
• The proctor will ask you to show your ears and wrists and remove any jewelry.
• The proctor will ask you to use either a hand-held mirror or cell phone to show your computer screen.
• The proctor will ask you to use the camera on your computer to show a 360-degree view of the room, including your tabletop surface.
• The proctor will ensure the ETS Secure Browser is downloaded and launched.
• Immediately before beginning your test, you’ll walk through one more Equipment Check with the proctor, who will attempt to assist in troubleshooting any issues.

• A human proctor will be recording and monitoring your entire test session.
• During the test, the proctor will monitor you (via video camera) and your computer screen to ensure you follow all testing procedures.
• You must be seen on camera by the proctor. To ensure the security of the test, the proctor must be able to see your face from forehead to chin at all times. Suspicious movements could invalidate your test.
• If you need to contact the proctor during your test, speak to get their attention and/or use the chat box. It may take 30-to-60 seconds for the proctor to reply.
• If the proctor is attempting to chat with you, there will be an audio signal from the chat function.
• At the end of the test session, the proctor will ask you to erase the whiteboard or transparency sleeve and hold it up to the camera, showing the front and back.
• Submit the exam, and then close the ETS Secure Browser.
• Once disconnected from the chat, you have an opportunity to participate in a brief survey.

• Follow all testing rules. Otherwise, your test can be canceled, and your fee won’t be refunded.
• Don’t use any unauthorized materials, including mobile devices, smartwatches, prewritten notes, or textbooks.
• Personal recording devices of any kind are strictly prohibited.
• You must disable any screen-sharing or remote-access software (such as Zoom, Skype®, TeamViewer®, Microsoft Teams® and Apple Remote Desktop™) prior to the test. It must remain disabled throughout the test. Make sure that the software will not open automatically during the test.
• Even during scheduled and unscheduled breaks, don’t communicate with anyone except the proctor.
• There may be references to using a headset during your test. Ignore them; headsets are NOT allowed in the tests at home.

• Most tests do not include a break. However, you have the option to take a 5-to-10-minute unscheduled restroom break.

• If you think you didn’t perform to your potential, you will have the option to cancel your scores at the end of your test but before viewing your unofficial score.

What if I fail the Equipment Check?

• You must resolve all issues and pass the equipment check before checking in for your test. If you can't resolve the issues yourself.
• If you can’t resolve all issues before your test begins, your test will be canceled. You will not receive a refund, and you will have to pay to reschedule the test.

What can I do ahead of time to prevent issues?

• Run the equipment check from your ETS Secure Browser at the time of day you plan to test to make sure you don't have any bandwidth issues.
• Perform a final equipment check from your ETS Secure Browser shortly before your test session starts.
• Close all browsers and applications not needed for the test. Doing so can help prevent bandwidth issues while you test.
• Make sure any other devices in your household that use the internet are not running.

What if I have an issue right before my test starts?

• If you have technical issues immediately before your test, you may click here to get redirected to the support page and use Need Help icon to connect with an agent.
• Keep in mind that your equipment will be checked again right before you test. The test proctor will tell you if there are any issues and you’ll have an opportunity to resolve those issues before the test begins.

What if I have a technical issue and my start time is extended?

• This won't affect the amount of time you have to complete the test. The timer for your test doesn't begin until the proctor enters the password.

What if I have a technical issue during my test?

• If you have a technical issue during your test, speak and wave to get the proctor's attention. If you still have internet access but have been disconnected from the test, notify the proctor via the chat function.

What if I lose internet during the test?

• If you have technical issues immediately before your test, you may click here to get redirected to the support page and use Need Help icon to connect with an agent.
• If you can’t reconnect to your test or the proctor, reinitiate the check-in process. If you are still unable to connect, click here to get redirected to the support page and use Need Help icon to connect with an agent.