For Students
Welcome to the Computer Based Testing Facilities (CBTF)!
What is the CBTF?
A CBTF is a secure testing space equipped with preconfigured computers for taking online exams and quizzes. Multiple courses may use the CBTF at the same time, so please be mindful of others and follow all proctor instructions.
Important: CBTF proctors are not affiliated with your course.
They cannot answer questions about your exam content, adjust time limits, or grant exceptions for lateness or missed reservations.
Exam Reservations
Most exams in the CBTF require you to reserve a specific timeslot using PrairieTest.
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Standard reservations are 50 minutes (1 hour 50 minutes for finals).
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There is a 10 minute check-in window before each exam session (making each session an hour long)
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You may leave early and quietly once you finish.
PrairieTest vs PrairieLearn
PrairieTest:
- Outside the CBTF: This is where you make or change your exam reservations (quizzes, midterms, finals). Your instructor will let you know when reservations open. If you miss your scheduled time and didn’t cancel ahead, a proctor or the CBTF staff will need to help clear your reservation.
- Inside the CBTF: When you arrive, you’ll check in with a proctor using your Cal ID, store your belongings, and log in at your assigned computer. After logging into PrairieTest with your CalNet ID and Duo, PrairieTest will securely launch your exam. At your scheduled start time, the proctors will begin the session, and you’ll access your exam through PrairieTest which will link you to PrairieLearn.
PrairieLearn:
- This is where your exam content lives and where instructors create quizzes, midterms, and finals.
- After your exam, you can log in to PrairieLearn to review your scores and past assessments (depending on your instructor’s settings).
- In some classes, you may also use PrairieLearn for homework or practice problems outside the CBTF.
Exam Windows & Availability
Each quiz or exam will typically have a 1–3 day window during which you can schedule your exam time.
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You can choose any available slot within that window.
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There are always more than enough total seats to accommodate everyone, but preferred times may fill up quickly.
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If you miss or reschedule late, availability for specific times is not guaranteed.
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Course staff may request an override for you if capacity allows, but otherwise, missed exams are counted as no-shows.
Communication & Support
All questions about exam logistics, scheduling, or accommodations should go to your course staff, not directly to CBTF proctors.
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CBTF staff cannot make exceptions, time extensions, or new reservations.
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Your course’s designated contact (often the instructor or TA) will handle all communication with the CBTF team.
Next Step: Get Started with Your First Exam
Ready to take your first CBTF exam?
- Visit the Getting Started page for step-by-step instructions on how to reserve your seat, prepare for exam day, and log in to PrairieTest for the first time.