CQI IRCA SARAS Online Exam Issues and Fix Guide

Many professionals appearing for CQI IRCA online exams experience technical challenges while using the SARAS assessment platform.

These issues usually involve login errors, camera access problems, microphone permissions, screen sharing difficulties, or unstable internet connections.

Most of these problems can be resolved quickly with the right setup.

This updated guide explains the most common SARAS exam issues, why they occur, and how to fix them smoothly so you can complete your CQI IRCA online exam without unnecessary stress.

What Is the SARAS Online Exam Platform?

SARAS is the remote proctored exam system used by CQI IRCA for conducting online assessments.

Before starting the exam, the system checks:

• • Browser compatibility (Chrome recommended)

  • Camera and microphone access

  • Internet speed and stability

  • Screen sharing permissions

  • System display settings

If any of these checks fail, the exam may not launch correctly.

Camera Access Showing “False” or Not Working

This is one of the most frequent problems.

Possible causes:

• • Browser permission not allowed

  • Windows privacy settings blocking camera

  • Camera already in use by another app

How to fix:

Allow camera in Chrome

1. Click the lock icon next to the website address
2. Set Camera to Allow
3. Refresh the page

Check Windows camera settings

1. Go to Settings → Privacy & Security → Camera
2. Turn on camera access for apps and desktop programs

Close other applications

Shut down Zoom, Teams, Google Meet, Skype, or any software using the camera.

Microphone Showing “False” or No Audio Detected

Possible causes:

• • Microphone permission is blocked in the browser
  • Incorrect input device is selected
  • Audio access is disabled in system settings

How to fix:

Allow microphone access in Chrome

1. Click the lock icon near the exam website URL
2. Set Microphone to Allow
3. Refresh the page

Check Windows microphone permissions

Go to Settings → Privacy & Security → Microphone and enable microphone access.

Select the built-in microphone

Make sure your computer’s built-in microphone is selected as the input device in your system sound settings.
(Do not use wired or Bluetooth headsets during the exam.)

Screen Sharing Not Working Properly

Screen sharing is mandatory for the SARAS exam.

Fix steps:

1. When prompted, select Entire Screen
2. Click Share
3. Make sure popups are allowed in Chrome

If it still fails, refresh the page and try again.

Popup Blocker Preventing Exam Functions

The SARAS system uses popups for important exam features.

How to enable popups:

• • Go to Chrome Settings → Privacy & Security → Site Settings → Popups

  • Set to Allowed

Or allow popups directly from the address bar icon.

Internet Speed Test Failing

Stable internet is essential for online proctored exams.

Tips to improve connection:

• Use stable network like WIFI or LAN
• Avoid mobile hotspots
• Close background downloads and apps
• Keep only the exam window open

Restart your router if needed.

Browser Compatibility Problems

Recommended browser:

Google Chrome (latest version)

Avoid:

• • Old browser versions

  • Unsupported browsers

Always update Chrome before exam day.

Hardware Not Detected (Camera or Microphone)

If your camera or microphone is not detected:

• • Restart your computer
  • Reconnect your external webcam (if used)
  • Try a different USB port
  • Test devices in Windows camera and sound settings

⚠️ Headsets and virtual audio devices should remain disconnected during the exam.

Internet Disconnect During the Exam

If your connection drops briefly:

• • Reconnect immediately

  • The system usually resumes your session

If unable to rejoin, contact SARAS support through the help option.

Recommended System Display Settings

For smooth performance:

• • Screen resolution: 1366 x 768 or higher

  • Display scaling: 100 percent (recommended)

Change this in Settings → Display → Scale and layout.

SARAS Exam Audio and Device Requirements (Important Reminder)

Before starting your CQI IRCA SARAS online exam, candidates must follow strict audio and device rules to maintain exam integrity.

❌ Devices Not Allowed During the Exam

During the exam, you are not permitted to use:

• Mobile phones
• In-ear, open-ear, or over-ear headphones
• Bluetooth or wired headsets

(All headphones must be fully disconnected)

Use Official CQI IRCA SARAS Help Videos

CQI IRCA provides official video tutorials covering:

• • Logging into SARAS

  • Resetting passwords

  • Camera troubleshooting

  • Microphone setup

  • Screen sharing configuration

  • System permissions

Watching these before exam day can prevent most technical issues.

CQI IRCA Official Email Support

If none of the above troubleshooting steps resolve your issue, candidates can submit an online help request form through the SARAS platform.

Please note that CQI IRCA’s official email support is available between 09:00 and 17:00 (UK working hours), Monday to Friday only.

Final Checklist Before Your Exam

✔ Complete system check at least one day in advance
✔ Use updated Chrome browser
✔ Test camera and microphone
✔ Ensure stable internet connection
✔ Close all background programs

Conclusion

Most CQI IRCA SARAS online exam issues are caused by permission settings, outdated browsers, or hardware conflicts.

Once camera access, microphone access, screen sharing, and internet stability are properly configured, the exam experience becomes smooth and stress-free.

Following this updated guide and reviewing official SARAS support videos will help you attend your CQI IRCA online exam confidently.