If you’ve ever stared at a blank test screen and thought, “Could I use ChatGPT right now?”—you’re not alone. As AI tools become a regular part of studying, many students want to know what AI extensions can I use with a LockDown Browser during online exams. The short answer? Basically none—but there’s more to it.
In this article, we’ll break down how LockDown Browser works, why AI extensions are blocked, and how to work around it without breaking rules.
What Is LockDown Browser and Why Is It So… Locked?
LockDown Browser is a special browser used by schools and universities to conduct secure online exams. Once the browser is launched, it blocks access to everything else—no switching tabs, no screenshots, no copy/paste, and definitely no AI extensions.
That means any helpful browser extensions like:
- ChatGPT browser tools
- Grammarly AI writing assistants
- Microsoft Copilot
- Jasper or Notion AI
- Even Google Translate
…all of them are disabled automatically when LockDown Browser is running.
In fact, LockDown Browser is designed to disable all plugins, not just AI-related ones, to ensure no unfair advantages during the test.
Why Can’t AI Extensions Be Used?
AI tools like ChatGPT are incredibly powerful for rewriting answers, solving problems, or generating explanations on the fly. That’s exactly why they’re banned in high-integrity testing environments. LockDown Browser is built to enforce academic honesty by shutting down:
- Browser extensions
- Background apps
- Remote desktop tools
- Virtual machines
- Clipboard monitoring tools
If you’re using LockDown Browser, even trying to launch an AI tool in the background can trigger the software’s security protocols, potentially flagging you for academic misconduct.
Are There Any AI Extensions That Work?
No mainstream AI tools work inside LockDown Browser. However, certain accessibility tools are allowed—but only if you have a documented need (like visual impairment or learning difficulties). These tools aren’t technically AI, but they might be mistaken as such:
- Text-to-speech tools (like Kurzweil ReadTheWeb or Read&Write)
- Screen readers (such as NVDA or JAWS for Windows)
- VoiceOver for macOS
These tools don’t generate answers—they just read questions aloud or help with navigation, and they require pre-approval from your institution’s accessibility office.
Can You Use AI Tools Before or After the Exam?
Yes – and you should! While you can’t use ChatGPT or similar tools during a LockDown exam, nothing’s stopping you from using them to:
- Study summaries of textbook chapters
- Generate practice questions
- Draft essay outlines
- Get concept explanations
- Review flashcards
In fact, using AI to prepare for LockDown Browser exams is one of the smartest ways to study efficiently—just make sure you’re not relying on it to do the thinking for you.
We recently published a deeper dive on how to responsibly use AI in academics: AI for Business Process Optimization Solutions—which includes great use cases for students and teams alike.
Is There a Safe Way to Use AI in LockDown Environments?
Not while the browser is running. But here are some student-friendly workarounds that keep you ethical and in control:
- Use AI to prepare study notes before your exam
- Summarize test prep materials using AI tools like Claude or Gemini
- Mock quiz yourself with AI-generated multiple-choice questions
- Use AI tools on a separate device while studying—but not during the actual test
And if you’re serious about balancing AI and academics, check out our guide on how students are adapting to generative AI tools.
Final Thoughts
So, what AI extensions can you use with a LockDown Browser? Realistically, none—unless it’s a pre-approved accessibility tool. LockDown Browser is designed to keep AI out of the room while the test is happening.
That said, there’s still a big opportunity to use AI before and after testing to improve your knowledge, prepare more effectively, and reduce test anxiety. Just make sure you’re playing fair—and using the tools the right way.
