Unauthorized
Note: An unauthorized break may be reported as an irregularity for the exam. Accessing a phone or other communication device, or study materials during an unauthorized break may result in actions being taken under the USMLE policies and procedures on irregular behavior.
If you must take a break during a block of the examination, click the Lock button on the toolbar at the bottom of the screen. This should be used only in an emergency situation.
The warning screen shown will appear, indicating that you are about to take an unauthorized break. To proceed with an unauthorized break, click the Unauthorized Break button. To return to the examination, click the Return to Exam button.
REMEMBER THAT THE TIMER WILL CONTINUE TO RUN DURING UNAUTHORIZED BREAKS, REDUCING YOUR TIME TO COMPLETE THE BLOCK.
The Unauthorized Break screen will appear automatically if no action (eg, mouse click) occurs during your examination for five minutes. You will receive a warning message, similar to the one shown, 30 seconds before the Unauthorized Break screen appears due to inactivity. To prevent an unauthorized break, move the mouse to return to the examination.
