About the CBTF
Computer-Based Testing Facility (CBTF) is both a space and service enabling students to take computer-administered exams in a controlled proctored environment, under specific constraints and circumstances designed to enable operation at scale. Originally started in the College of Engineering, this service is now being piloted centrally through RTL.
CBTF 101:
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Platform: Exams created on PrairieLearn are linked to PrairieTest so that students can take them on CBTF-managed computers.
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PrairieLearn is where instructors create questions, link them together to create assessments, and then link those assessment to PrairieTest for students to access at the CBTF
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PrairieTest is where students go to make reservations and where they will go when they enter the CBTF. Once the proctors start the exam - they will have access to the assessment that’s been linked by the instructor.
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Proctoring: CBTF proctors monitor the exam and handle DSP accommodations (e.g., Extra Time, Reduced Distraction)
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Proctors also follow strict protocols to detect cheating (document and report incidents for course staff to review and follow-up with the student)
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Hours: The CBTF is not a 24/7 facility
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Multiple classes in the CBTF may take exams at the same time / same day.
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Each semester, CBTF lead provides official operating hours
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For Spring 2026 - 10am - 6pm (TENTATIVE)
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All exams must be scheduled within these hours
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Scheduling: Instructors set an exam window with the CBTF staff and students self-schedule their exam time within that window
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Exam Security: CBTF computers are locked down to allow access only to us.prairietest.com and us.prairielearn.com
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All other URLs, File explorer, and computer settings are completely blocked
- Support: For questions about the CBTF or usage, please email cbt-help@berkeley.edu
Locations:
Our two testing locations for Fall 2025 are currently Sutardja Dai Hall 200 and Soda 275.
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Location |
Steps |
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To reach 200 Sutardja Dai Hall (SDH), the exterior door is to the right of the entrance doors to Yali’s Cafe on the lower level of SDH. Do not attempt to enter through the Meditation Room in SDH. |
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To reach Soda 275, enter Soda Hall through the main entrace across from V&A cafe, take the elevator or stairs down to the second floor and locate the rooms.
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