The National Institute of Securities Markets (NISM), a public trust established by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), recently announced the discontinuation of its online proctored examinations, popularly known as NISM online exams. This decision has raised questions among students and professionals who were planning to take these exams. In this article, we will examine the reasons behind NISM’s decision to discontinue NISM online exam a.k.a. online proctored exams and the implications of this move.
During the government imposed lockdown during the outbreak of COVID-19, NISM had permitted online proctored examinations, in addition to Test Centre based exams.
Rampant Instances of Cheating in NISM Online Exams
The first and most obvious reason for NISM’s decision to discontinue online proctored exams is the high level of cheating and misconduct that has been reported during these exams. NISM online exams (online proctored exams), which are taken remotely and monitored by an invigilator through a webcam, have been found to be vulnerable to a number of cheating methods. These include the use of cheat sheets, the assistance of a third party, and the use of technology to manipulate the exam environment. As a result, NISM has received a large number of complaints from students and professionals about cheating and misconduct during online proctored exams.
Privacy Concerns
Another reason for NISM’s decision to discontinue NISM online exams / proctored exams is the lack of security and privacy. Online proctored exams require students and professionals to share personal and sensitive information such as their name, address, and identification number with the invigilator. This information is vulnerable to data breaches and hacking, which can lead to identity theft and financial fraud. Additionally, online proctored exams also require students and professionals to install software on their computers, which can also expose them to security risks.
Technical Disruptions
The third reason for NISM’s decision to discontinue online proctored exams is the technical difficulties and disruptions that have been reported during these exams. These include internet connectivity issues, computer malfunctions, and power outages. These technical difficulties can cause delays and interruptions in the exam, which can negatively impact the performance of students and professionals.
What are the options now?
The discontinuation of online proctored exams by NISM has several implications for students and professionals who were planning to take these exams. Firstly, it means that they will have to take the exams in a physical center, which may be inconvenient for some students and professionals who live in remote areas or have mobility issues.
Secondly, it also means that students and professionals will have to take the exams at a fixed time and date, which may not be convenient for those who have other commitments such as work or family. Finally, it also means that students and professionals will have to pay more to take the exams, as the costs of travel and accommodation will be added to the exam fee.
In conclusion, NISM’s decision to discontinue NISM online exams / online proctored exams was based on several factors such as the high level of cheating and misconduct, lack of security and privacy, and technical difficulties and disruptions. The discontinuation of online proctored exams will have implications for students and professionals who were planning to take these exams, but it also ensures that the integrity and security of the exams are maintained.
Our View
PrepCafe Academy has always maintained a balanced opinion about NISM online examinations. Despite the government imposed lockdowns in 2020-21, NISM has continued to conduct exams, albeit at a lower capacity. The online exams provided professionals an excellent option to save time and effort, however, the technical disruptions have been way too many and often led to disappointments.
There have been also a subset of professionals who misused the proctored examinations to their benefit due to which poor quality professionals entered the market. This damage and the loss such people would cause to their clients is irreparable.
PrepCafe Academy welcomes this move from NISM, better late than never! Test Centre Exams are way to go!
To register online for NISM Certification Examinations, please visit the NISM Certifications Portal
