VetMed Student Services, Personal Computer Requirements
REFERENCE GUIDE
Veterinary Medicine Student Computer Requirements
Computer requirements and purchasing recommendations for University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine students.
Reading time: 5 minutes
Audience: DVM Students
Overview
Computer Ownership Requirement
The College of Veterinary Medicine requires professional students to own a notebook computer, either a Windows-based tablet PC or a traditional laptop. A personal computer allows students to access course materials, take electronic notes, and participate in classroom activities.
Tablet-style computers with stylus or touchscreen support can provide additional flexibility for annotating lecture materials and taking handwritten notes. However, students should verify software compatibility before purchasing a tablet-style computer. Examplify does not support touchscreen input on Windows or Mac laptops.
Recommended Computer Specifications
New computer purchases should meet or exceed the following specifications. These recommendations are intended to provide sufficient performance and storage for coursework, everyday applications, and the expected life of the computer.
| Component | Recommended Specification |
|---|---|
| Operating System | Windows 11 (64-bit) or a macOS version currently supported by ExamSoft. See the Examplify requirements below. |
| Processor | A current-generation processor supported by the operating system and ExamSoft. Windows computers may use supported x86 or ARM processors. Mac computers must use a supported Intel or Apple processor. |
| Memory (RAM) | Minimum: 8 GB Recommended: 16 GB or higher |
| Internal Storage | Minimum: 256 GB solid-state drive (SSD). A larger SSD is recommended for additional storage and long-term use. |
| Wireless Connectivity | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) or newer. Wi-Fi 7 (802.11be) is preferred for new purchases. The wireless adapter should support WPA2 and WPA3 security. |
| Display | Minimum resolution of 1280 × 768 to meet Examplify requirements. A Full HD display (1920 × 1080) or higher is recommended. |
| Data Backup | External backup storage or sufficient cloud-based storage. At least 500 GB of backup capacity is recommended. |
Minimum Computer Requirements for ExamSoft Examplify
Computers must meet the following minimum requirements to run ExamSoft Examplify. These specifications reflect ExamSoft's published requirements and may change as new software versions are released.
| Component | Minimum Requirement |
|---|---|
| Windows | 64-bit Windows 11 using a version certified by ExamSoft. Windows S mode is not supported. |
| macOS | macOS Sequoia, Tahoe, or Golden Gate, subject to ExamSoft certification. |
| Processor | Supported x86 or ARM processor on Windows. Intel, A18, or Apple M-series processor on Mac. |
| Memory (RAM) | At least 4 GB of usable RAM. ExamID and ExamMonitor require 4 GB, with 8 GB or more recommended. |
| Available Storage | At least 4 GB of available disk space. |
| Display | Minimum resolution of 1280 × 768, with display scaling set to 100%. |
| Security | Secure Boot is required on Windows. |
| Internet | Internet connection required for registration, exam downloads, uploads, and some exam features. |
Important ExamSoft Compatibility Information
Examplify does not support Chromebooks, Android, or Linux computers. Windows computers must use a supported version of Windows 11. Mac computers must use a macOS version certified by ExamSoft.
Examplify requires administrator-level account permissions. Virtual machines and virtualized environments are not supported.
Examplify supports iPad, but an iPad does not replace the College's notebook-computer ownership requirement. ExamSoft supports Windows tablet devices only in specified configurations, including Surface Pro.
Review the official ExamSoft Minimum System Requirements before purchasing a computer or updating its operating system.
Data Backup Recommendations
Students should maintain regular backups of their coursework and personal files using an external hard drive or cloud-based storage.
Keeping a current backup helps protect important information if a computer experiences hardware failure, damage, or data loss. Backups also make it easier to restore files when a computer is repaired or replaced.
Important Reminder
Do not store important files solely on your laptop. Maintain a separate backup using an external drive or cloud-based storage.
Important Notes
- Keep your computer's operating system updated to a version supported by ExamSoft. Check compatibility before installing major operating system updates.
- Verify that any computer you purchase meets or exceeds the recommended specifications in this guide and the current Examplify requirements.
- Confirm accessory compatibility with your computer before purchasing.
- Maintain regular backups of coursework and other important files.
- Test Examplify on your computer before an examination. Do not wait until exam day to verify compatibility.
Need Additional Assistance?
If you have questions about computer requirements or need assistance selecting a computer, contact IT@VetMed.
Email: it@vetmed.illinois.edu
Last reviewed: November 2026