An important step in gaining admission to a US, UK or Australian school is taking a standardized test. This post highlights the steps to taking such exams, some challenges foreign students may face, and how to meet these challenges.
Which test should I take?
Visit the website of the school where you seek admission. You will find information on which exam(s) you are required to take.
What should I expect?
Some of these exams test you on math and English, others only on your English language skills (vocabulary, reading comprehension, listening skills etc). There are some things you should know.
Format of tests: Most of these exams are computer-based or Internet-based. While US students are used to giving tests online, many Indian students may find this a new experience. When you study for the test, take as many practice tests as possible on the computer.
Content of tests: Sometimes, the English sections of the GRE and GMAT ask you to learn the meanings of a number of words with Greek or Latin roots. In the reading comprehension section, you may have to answer questions on topics you have never read about before such as American politics or American history. Additionally, the math may be a little different from what you have done before as well. Don’t be intimidated. Taking practice tests should familiarize you to the content. Try to read articles from American news sites such as the New York Times or the Washington Post, or read features from the National Geographic website. They will help you get the feel of American English, as well as expose you to different types of content.
Most cities have preparation classes that will help you study for the exam. Classes will familiarize you to the concepts and formats, but you must practice at home to really seal the deal. If you choose to not attend preparation classes, you can buy the necessary textbooks from your nearest bookstore or order them online.
How do I schedule the exam?
If you are enrolled in classes, the teachers there will help you to schedule the exam. If you are studying by yourself, you can schedule the exam via the official website.
Here are links to the testing organizations sites:
ets.org to schedule a GRE or TOEFL exams
www.mba.com to schedule the GMAT
www.ielts.org to schedule the IELTS
sat.collegeboard.org to schedule the SAT exam and SAT Subject Tests
www.actstudent.org to schedule the ACT
If you have trouble navigating the site, have a friend or relative who can help you. Read as much as you can about the exams, the textbooks required, and how to schedule an appointment. Choose an exam date that will give you plenty of time to prepare for the exam, but make it early enough to be able to retake the exam if you need it. It is, however, rather expensive to take these exams, so work hard to avoid the retake.
Some test organizations accept credit, cheques drawn to U.S. banks, bank drafts, international money orders or even UNESCO coupons. Find out how you have to pay for your particular exam.
How do I choose an exam center?
There may not be an exam center in the city you live in. You may have to travel to your closest metropolis. If this is the case, book your tickets well in advance and try to stay somewhere close to the exam center. Most Indian metropolitan cities have traffic problems, and the last thing you want is to be late for your exam.
In my personal experience, I had to travel to Mumbai to take the GRE. The exam center was fantastic and it followed all the guidelines set out by ETS. I also stayed with a friend who lived 10 minutes away from the center.
For the TOEFL, I was happy when I saw that there was a center in my city. But on the day of the test I found that the computers were too close together, the airconditioning was too powerful, the toilets were dirty, and the staff was unprofessional.
So if you are taking the exam in your own city, try to check out the testing center before you book it. Don’t be shy. The testing organization pays the center good money so that you can take the exam in a conducive environment.
What do I need on exam day?
Depending on which test you are taking, you may be required to carry a valid ID, the names of schools where test scores should be sent and an admission ticket. The exam website will probably have specifications on the photo, signature and type of ID. Be sure to follow them.
Most importantly, get a good night’s sleep and try to stay calm. A very quick technique for feeling confident is standing tall with your hands on your hips (like Superman!) and breathing. It sounds silly, but it works.
Good Luck!