"the act of watching," 1871, noun of action from invigilate (v.). Perhaps from German, where it is used earlier than in English.
Entries linking to invigilation
invigilate v.
"to watch diligently" (archaic), 1550s, from Latin invigilatus, past participle of invigilare "watch over, be watchful, be devoted," from in- "in" (from PIE root *en "in") + vigilare "to watch, keep awake, not sleep" (from PIE root *weg- "to be strong, be lively"). In late 19c. especially in reference to student exams. Related: Invigilated; invigilating.