Computers in the UFE
Table of contents
Attention all 2012 UFE candidates
About Securexam (CA)
Practice software
Performing the mandatory “Qualification Exam” test of the Securexam (CA) software
Minimum hardware and software requirements
User rights requirement
Securexam (CA) user guides and other documentation
Securexam (CA) technical support
Attention all 2012 UFE candidates
You will write the 2012 UFE on your computer and submit your answer electronically.
In addition to a laptop computer, you can bring these items into the writing center:
- A silent calculator with a one-line or two-line display, incapable of alpha storage and/or wireless communication; and
- A wristwatch or small, noiseless clock.
You will be required to preload your laptop computer with software called Securexam (CA).
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About Securexam (CA)
Securexam (CA) is a special “lockdown” software program that disables most of your computer’s functionality and file access. It will ensure that, during the UFE, you will be able to use your computer for the following purposes only:
- Reference: you will be able to search the CICA Standards and Guidance Collection (UFE Version) and the Federal Income Tax Collection (UFE Version);
- Keyed response: you will be able to use a word processor and electronic spreadsheet to input your responses, and submit them electronically for marking purposes.
Remember:
- handwritten or typed planning notes will not be marked;
- paper copies of the CICA Handbook and the Federal Income Tax Act will no longer be permitted in the writing centre. Candidates will have to consult the electronic versions of these documents using the Securexam (CA) software.
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Practice software
Securexam (CA) software contains a practice version that can help you practice before the UFE. Using a word processor, a spreadsheet and searching through Securexam (CA) is different – some functionality is disabled and some keys won’t work the way you expect. Using the practice version allows you to familiarize yourself with the changed functionality of the word processor, the spreadsheet and the permitted info bases in the Securexam (CA) environment.
You will not be able to access any other files or programs.
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Performing the mandatory “Qualification Exam” test of the Securexam (CA) software
You must test the software by performing a “Qualification Exam”, and upload the resulting files to Software Secure for confirmation. You will have to sign a waiver indicating that you have successfully performed this test on that computer, and have received confirmation from Software Secure that the software is working properly.
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Minimum hardware and software requirements
Securexam (CA) runs on PC-based computers only. No Apple / Power PC / Macintosh computer will be supported, even if it runs Windows.
To install Securexam (CA), your laptop must meet these minimum hardware and software requirements:
Hardware
- Pentium IV processor or higher (or industry equivalent);
- 384 Mb of Ram;
- 40 Mb of free hard drive space (required to run application);
- A free USB port.
To use Securexam (CA) in the writing centre, you need a free USB port. (You do not need a free USB port to practice with the software or to complete the mandatory “Qualification Exam”.)
Software
- Microsoft Windows Operating System XP, Vista or Windows 7
- Internet Explorer 6.0 or greater
To download the software, upload the “Qualification Exam” and receive emails from Software Secure, you also require Internet access.
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User rights requirement
You must have administrator rights to install this software. User-level rights will allow you to use the software once it has been installed.
If your employer owns your computer, you must secure employer approval and/or assistance to install Securexam (CA), in accordance with your employer’s policies.
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User guides and other documentation
For additional information on Computers in the UFE, please read the following documentation:
Instructions to candidates from BDO Canada, Ernst & Young and Raymond Chabot Grant Thornton
Securexam (CA) Registration Site
Securexam (CA) – Quick Start User Guide
Securexam (CA) – User Guide
Securexam (CA) Tips Guide
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Securexam (CA) technical support
Candidates using employer-supplied computers should contact their employer’s help desk first to ensure minimum hardware and software requirements have been met.
Candidates using their own computers or who have no access to an employer help desk should contact the profession’s help desk as follows:
- Contact Software Secure: 1 866 618.8851
In order to better assist you in a more expedited manner, please click here for Software Secure online customer support portal.
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