Use case
C and C++ Exams
Give every student the same controlled C/C++ environment — compile, run, and test real code without installs, AI autocomplete, or lost work.
Examination Center is in early access — we're onboarding institutions through our Early Access Program. The information here describes our current platform and direction and may evolve; it is not a contractual commitment.
The problem
C and C++ exams on lab machines or personal laptops mean inconsistent toolchains, AI plugins, and 'my build broke' disputes that are hard to adjudicate fairly.
A sample C and C++ exam task
Here is the kind of short, self-contained task an instructor can set in a timed C or C++ sitting. It tests core skills - reading input, using arrays or containers, and printing a clean result - without needing any extra files or libraries.
Task: Read an integer n, then read n integers. Print the largest value and the average of all values, rounded to two decimal places. Your program should:
- Read
nfrom the first line of input. - Read the next
nintegers (separated by spaces or new lines). - Print the maximum on the first output line.
- Print the average on the second output line, with exactly two decimal places.
Students compile and run their solution in the secure sandbox, paste sample input, and check the program output against the expected result before time runs out. Here is a C++ starter that handles input and leaves the logic for the student to complete:
#include <iostream>
#include <iomanip>
#include <vector>
int main() {
int n;
std::cin >> n;
std::vector<int> values(n);
for (int i = 0; i < n; ++i) {
std::cin >> values[i];
}
// TODO: find the maximum value
// TODO: compute the average of all values
// std::cout << maxValue << "\n";
// std::cout << std::fixed << std::setprecision(2) << average << "\n";
return 0;
}A C version of the same task would use scanf and printf in place of streams. The editor is a plain, AI-free workspace - no autocomplete and no built-in assistant - so every student solves the task with the same tools.
How Examination Center helps
- A controlled, AI-free single-file editor — no autocomplete, identical for every student.
- C and C++ compile and run in a secure server sandbox — no installs, the same toolchain for everyone.
- Build output and program output are shown separately, so students debug like they would locally.
- Live monitoring plus integrity evidence (paste, large edits, cross-student similarity) for human review.
- Autosave and session recovery so a crash never costs a student their work.
Related
See Java exams, Fortran exams, and the autograder comparison. Terms: sandboxed execution.
Get started
Early Access scope: up to 40 students and 1 exam. Indicative pricing only — see pricing or apply for Early Access.
FAQ
Does Examination Center grade or score C and C++ submissions?
No. Examination Center is not an auto-grader and does not keep a grade book. Students compile and run their code in the sandbox, and you see their build output, program output, and integrity evidence. Grading stays in your own workflow, where you can review the code and run it against your own test cases. We surface the work clearly; the academic judgment stays with you.
Which languages and standards can students use for C and C++ exams?
C and C++ both compile and run today in a secure server sandbox, alongside Python (in the browser), Fortran, and Java. The same toolchain is used for every student, so builds are consistent and "it worked on my laptop" disputes go away. If you need a specific language standard or compiler flag configured for your exam, raise it during the Early Access Program and we can confirm what is supported.
What libraries are available - can students use the C++ standard library and the STL?
Yes. The standard library is available, including common headers like <iostream>, <vector>, <string>, <algorithm>, and <iomanip> in C++, and the standard C headers such as <stdio.h> and <stdlib.h>. Exams are single-file, so the focus stays on writing and reasoning about code rather than managing a build system. If your exam needs a particular library, mention it when you set up the sitting.
Do students need to install a compiler or any software?
No installs at all. The editor and the compile-and-run sandbox both work in the browser, so students do not set up a toolchain, an IDE, or any local software. This removes a common source of exam-day failures and gives everyone the same environment, whether they are on a lab machine or a personal laptop.
How does the platform support academic integrity for C and C++ exams without falsely accusing students?
The editor is AI-free - no built-in assistant and no autocomplete - and identical for every student. During the exam you get live monitoring plus integrity evidence such as paste events, large or sudden edits, and cross-student code similarity. This is shown as evidence for human review, never as an automated accusation or verdict. You decide what it means. Note that we are not a device-restriction or proctoring tool: the platform does not take over, lock, or record a student's device or camera.