Software Secure Makes the UFE Easier to Take

Securexam(R) Enables UFE to Be Taken on Laptops

This year, the Canadian Institute of Chartered Accountants brought the Uniform Final Evaluation ("the UFE") into the computer-age by permitting exam candidates to use their own laptop computers to research and calculate answers during the exam. Using special exam security software called Securexam®, UFE candidates were able to access electronic versions of the Accounting Guide and the Tax Act, and they were also able to access Microsoft Excel for purposes of making calculations. During this high-stakes exam, CICA was able to permit use of candidates' own computers as a resources and calculation tool because the Securexam software prevented candidate access to any other applications.

The primary purpose of introducing computers to the UFE is to provide candidates with the best possible opportunity to demonstrate their proficiency in the CA competencies using the tools of the workplace. The UFE tests candidates with case-based scenarios that simulate the real-life challenges of the newly qualified CA as closely as possible. Computers are part of the CA's daily reality. Their introduction to the UFE process enables candidates to access reference sources quickly and efficiently, just as they would on the job.

"Using computers will enhance candidates' ability to present their true level of proficiency during the exam," said Tim Forristal, CICA's Vice-President, Education. Using computers during the exam enabled candidates to solve problems the way they will in practice. With the computer, candidates no longer had to sift through hard-copy pages of the Accountancy Regulations and the Tax Code, but could access them electronically, just as they had in school. Similarly, Microsoft Excel replaced the need to hand out calculators, something quickly becoming foreign to CAs.

The Securexam software ensured that CICA and the UFE candidates were able to attain the benefits of having a computer during the exam, without the potential negative consequences of cheating. The Securexam cheat-proof exam technology is being used throughout the world to bring examinations in to the computer age of the 21st Century. Software Secure's exam taking software is getting widespread use throughout North America both in standard educational institutions, and by other professional testing organizations, like Bar Exams throughout the United States. "With Securexam, we knew that we would be using computers to improve the UFE for candidates while still maintaining the security required by such a high stakes exam," said Forristal.

"We were excited for the opportunity to bring the efficiencies, convenience and comfort of computing to the UFE." said Douglas Winneg, President and founder of Software Secure. "We are looking forward to continuing to work with the CICA to responsibly incorporate other important computing functions into the examination process," said Winneg. CICA and Software Secure are planning on providing UFE candidates with a version of Securexam that will permit them to key in responses as well as to perform research and calculations. Word processed exam responses are expected to be permitted as soon as the 2006 UFE.

About CICA

The Canadian Institute of Chartered Accountants (CICA), together with the CA Institutes/ordre, represents approximately 68,000 CAs and 8,000 students in Canada and Bermuda. The CICA conducts research into current business issues and supports the setting of accounting and assurance standards for business, not-for-profit organizations and government. It issues guidance on control and governance, publishes professional literature, develops continuing education programs and represents the CA profession nationally and internationally. It develops and marks the CA profession's Uniform Final Examination, a high stakes examination for entry into the Canadian CA profession.

Please visit www.cica.ca/securexam for more information.

About Software Secure, Inc.

Software Secure is headquartered in Cambridge, MA. The Company was founded in 1999 with the mission to facilitate the responsible incorporation of computers into the learning process. Software Secure works with colleges, graduate schools, K-12, and certification exam organizations to develop tools that unleash the powerful benefits of computer-based learning. By providing software solutions that prevent the misuse of computers, the Company has enabled institutions throughout the world to improve the teaching and testing process. Software Secure's suite of products enables students to attain the benefits of computer-based testing and learning, without the harmful consequences of electronic cheating or digital distraction. In addition to creating a cheat-proof platform for both Internet-based and non-Internet based computer testing, Software Secure products control access to the Internet, facilitating classroom use of technology without unwanted web-surfing. Please visit www.softwaresecure.com for more information.

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