HPAT 2026 Will Run Online! Here’s What You Need to Know
1 day ago by Chris
HPAT historically took place in paper and pencil format. However, due to the COVID pandemic, HPAT ran online for the first time ever in 2021. In following years, HPAT also ran online, and ACER has confirmed that HPAT 2026 will continue in the online format.
This blog summarises what you need to know.
HPAT 2026 will take place online
HPAT 2026 will take place online. This means that students will sit HPAT using their own computer (which has an internet connection) in a private location, such as their home.
Transitioning to an online testing format can be a new and potentially unfamiliar experience for many candidates. To ensure you are well-prepared and at ease during the examination, it is essential to become familiar with the online test format. MedEntry's testing platform exactly replicates the live HPAT environment. By practicing on the MedEntry platform, you can immerse yourself in the online testing experience, getting a feel for the interface, navigation, and your approach towards answering HPAT questions. Simulated practice allows you to build the confidence and competence needed to excel in the HPAT. You can try out the testing platform for free with the MedEntry Free HPAT Exam.
HPAT 2026 will be remotely proctored
Like HPAT in previous years, HPAT 2026 will be ‘remotely proctored’ or supervised. This involves a supervisor, who is located remotely, helping you register for the test (by checking your identification and ensuring that your testing environment and equipment is suitable), providing you with access to the HPAT exam and ensuring that you do not break any exam rules.
HPAT 2026 will be remotely proctored by a company called ProctorU. For an idea of how remote proctoring works, check out this video.
HPAT 2026 will run across several days
The HPAT exam is traditionally held in late February. HPAT 2025 and HPAT 2024 both ran online and took place over 10 days (on a Friday, until the following Sunday, in late February). ACER has confirmed HPAT 2026 will take place over 10 days as well, from Friday 13 Feb to Sunday 22 Feb 2026.
It is important to note that only ACER can schedule sessions on 17, 18, 21 and 22 February. These dates are reserved for candidates who experience technical difficulties and need to reschedule. Rescheduled sessions on 17 and 18 Feb will be held remotely, whilst sessions on 21 and 22 Feb will be held in person at a test centre in Dublin.
Once bookings for HPAT 2026 open, students will be able to choose their preferred testing date and time. It is recommended that students choose a time that is most suitable for them – for example, if you are a 'morning' person, you should choose a morning slot. If you work better in the afternoons, choose an afternoon slot. It is also recommended that students test earlier in the cycle (for example, on the first Friday) rather than later. This will allow ample opportunity to reschedule if any technical issues arise.
You will need certain equipment to sit HPAT 2026
To sit HPAT 2026, you will need the following:
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A computer or laptop (tablets and mobile phones are not acceptable)
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Have downloaded the ACER test app and Guardian Browser on to your computer or laptop
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A stable internet connection
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2 pieces of A4 sized scratch paper and a pencil, eraser and sharpener; or a small erasable whiteboard and marker pen
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Acceptable and valid photo-bearing identification
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A mirror or other reflective device to show your proctor your testing room
You are allowed to have with you a clear water bottle (without labels attached) but you are not allowed to have any food or other drinks, unless for pre-approved medical reasons.
Further information will be released later in the year
As registrations for HPAT 2026 open (typically in early November), ACER will release additional details about the examination process.
MedEntry will also provide updates to students via our newsletter and social media pages.
