---
title: "Qualtrics Test Runs Not Starting Fresh"
description: "When initiating a test run in Qualtrics, the platform may reopen a previous test session instead of starting a new one. This behavior commonly occurs…"
url: https://www.surveytester.com/academy/en/test-surveys/qualtrics-test-runs-not-starting-fresh/
language: en
type: faq
audiences: ["Project Managers"]
published: 2026-03-24
updated: 2026-03-27
---

# Qualtrics Test Runs Not Starting Fresh

_Test Surveys · SurveyTester Academy_

## **Issue Summary**

When initiating a test run in Qualtrics, the platform may reopen a **previous test session** instead of starting a new one. This behavior commonly occurs when the test link has been accessed before.

## **Cause**

Qualtrics automatically restores an existing session when a respondent returns to a link that has already been used.
This occurs because the **default survey setting allows respondents to resume and finish later**, causing the survey to reopen at the point where the previous session ended.

## **Resolution**

To ensure that a new test run begins without loading the previous session, use:

## **Start Testing in Incognito Mode**

Launching the survey link in an incognito/private browser window prevents Qualtrics from detecting the previous session and forces the system to start a fresh test run.

![](https://www.surveytester.com/academy/_img/test-surveys/qualtrics-test-runs-not-starting-fresh/en/WUbimage.png)

To learn more about testing survey in Incognito mode, click [**here**](https://www.surveytester.com/academy/en/test-surveys/using-surveytester-with-incognito-mode).