Your Guide to Graduate School Entrance Exams: MCAT, GMAT, LSAT, GRE

Test Day Tips:

• Double-check Before you go into the exam, ask yourself questions such as: do I need a Number 2 pencil? How many forms of identification do I need? Do I need an authorization voucher? What is the score reporting policy? Are there any additional fees? You can find this information on the website where you registered for the test.
• Come prepared Don’t be the girl whose pen runs out of ink when she’s writing the essay—make sure you have back-up supplies whether it’s extra pens in your backpack or some Triple A batteries in case your graphing calculator runs out of juice. It’s also a good idea to bring water if you become thirsty while taking the test or even a snack (such as a Power Bar) to eat during the break. Because the temperature of testing rooms can sometimes make you feel as if you’re taking an exam at the North Pole, it doesn’t hurt to bring a sweatshirt, as freezing is no fun.
• Bring a watch Cell phones are almost always a no-go in testing rooms, and there’s no guarantee that you’ll be sitting near a clock. By bringing a wrist watch, you can track your time and won’t have to rush.
• Use your resources While many prep courses are available, they can also be expensive. Many prep books often have older tests that you can use and if you look in the right places, you can also find practice exams online for free. Also, check with your local library to see what test prep books they may carry. Photocopying a few old tests is going to be a lot easier on your wallet then some of the pricey courses that are offered.
• Arrive early Being an early bird will cut back on the stress of finding a parking spot, and you can breathe easy knowing that you’ve given yourself enough time. You can use the extra minutes you have to make a run to the bathroom before you start the test or to just get settled in your testing room.
• Eat breakfast Sorry, but downing a strawberry protein shake as you drive to the testing location does not count as a nutritious breakfast. Your brain needs all the energy it can get, so do yourself a favor, and take the time to eat a balanced meal that is going to sustain you throughout the morning. Trust us, Dad will love to make you those sunny-side up eggs that were your favorite as a kid.

Sources: Princetonreview.com Aamc.org Mba.com Lsac.org Gre.org