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What is a “lockdown browser” in online exams?

The lockdown browser is software that ensures the integrity of online exams by limiting external access and assisting students, especially in the U.S. immigration context.

Written by

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Updated on February 8, 2025
2 min read
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When exploring the challenges and opportunities involved in immigration processes in the United States, especially in the context of academic visas such as the F visa, it is common to come across technological changes that influence various areas, including online assessments.

An example of this is the use of the “lockdown browser” in virtual exams. The “lockdown browser” is specialized software used to make online assessments more secure and reliable. It works by restricting the test taker’s access to other windows, tabs, or applications during the exam period to prevent consulting unauthorized materials or communicating with other people.

In practice, when starting an exam that uses this system, the candidate will have limited access to the operating system, making actions such as copy and paste, opening new browser tabs, or using other sources of aid that could compromise the exam’s integrity impossible.

This type of technology has been gaining popularity in various educational and certifying institutions that need to ensure that the exam results reflect the candidates” real knowledge. For international students competing for spots or needing to take certain tests as part of the F visa process, understanding how this tool works can be very useful for properly preparing and avoiding surprises during the exam.

Besides the relevance of the “lockdown browser” for test-taking, it is always important to remember that, both in educational and immigration settings, compliance with current laws and regulations is essential. Correctly interpreting the rules and seeking information from reliable sources, such as immigration experts or reputable companies, is crucial to avoid scams or marketing campaigns promising miraculous solutions.

Finally, staying well informed and following United States regulations in both the educational and immigration sectors is a way to protect your rights and ensure that your adaptation and entry process into the country is done safely and legally.

Learn more about F-1 Visa

Duration
Duration of studies
OPT (STEM)
Up to 3 years of work
CPT
Work during studies
Processing
2-8 weeks
All about F-1 Visa
Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

Leading journalism and editorial content at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps make immigration topics clear, trustworthy, and easy to understand. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.

Victoria's tips

What is a “lockdown browser” in online exams?

The lockdown browser is software that ensures the integrity of online exams by limiting external access and assisting students, especially in the U.S. immigration context.

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