Graduate School: Question of the Week

"I have never been a good standardized test taker, so I’m very nervous about taking the graduate entrance exam. What should I do to prepare for it?"


Whether you’re taking the GRE, GMAT, LSAT or MCAT, most graduate admission experts will encourage applicants to study for the exam, but how you go about the process should be based on your personal study habits. At a minimum, I believe all applicants should purchase a study guide with prep tests. You can go to your local bookstore or order new and/or used study guides online (Amazon.com is a great resource). Using these test prep books enable you to take simulation tests which helps assess your strengths and weaknesses and also allows you to gauge your time management. Too many times, I hear stories of applicants who say they ran out of time and guessed on the final questions of the section.

Some applicants need a structured study plan and because of this, many will turn to a company that assists clients in studying for graduate exams. Some of these courses can be expensive, but are proven to be extremely helpful for many test-takers. For a low-cost prep course, I recommend contacting DMACC in Ankeny to see if they have a class that fits in your schedule.

Please keep in mind that the standardized test is only one component to the application. Graduate admission committees also consider the personal statement, resume, letters of recommendation, undergraduate gpa and any other components the school requires. So don’t get too stressed about taking the test!