Opinion of Kaplan's Official Test Day Experience?

[PSUMSFA]

The possibility of actually going to the test center to take practice CATs is compelling. However, I have not found anyone giving an opinion regarding this feature. Anyone?

A common tip theme is to simulate taking CATs as closely as possible so this seems like an ideal opportunity.

It is pretty clear that the actual Kaplan course is not as highly rated as others. It's sort of hard to stomach taking another course and also signing up for Kaplan just for the chance to take practice CATs under real conditions.

Thanks for any and all opinions.

[PSUMSFA]

Yes, I'm replying to my own post.

I found a virtual tour of a Pearson testing center here: https://www.pearsonvue.com/ppc/

I also called my testing center and they said I could at least come into the lobby but I couldn't go further than that.

This might be enough to make the surroundings more familiar to me though.

[iamtensai]

The virtual tour is helpful, especially for first time testers like myself.

Thank you.

[dumbhead]

I really think practicing in real test environments will be very very effective. Last time I took the GMAT, 4 years ago a test taker was not allowed to take the test as he forgot the passport.

I dont think you can do the best when you have not practiced enough on the scratch sheet and the marker AS its done in the test center. I look forward to do as many tests as possible in a real test conditions. ( or close enough )

[amitchell]

I really think practicing in real test environments will be very very effective. Last time I took the GMAT, 4 years ago a test taker was not allowed to take the test as he forgot the passport.

I dont think you can do the best when you have not practiced enough on the scratch sheet and the marker AS its done in the test center. I look forward to do as many tests as possible in a real test conditions. ( or close enough )

Thanks DH. I encourage you (and everyone on the thread) to talk to Kaplan GMAT students to get their perspective on the Official Test Day Experience. But pending that research on your part, here are a couple of responses by Kaplan students in surveys:

One remarkable achievement is the possibility of taking the CATs at Pearson's Center.

Another student:

Tests at Pearson (actual testing centre) is great, having 8 practice tests there.

Those are just two comments - definitely continue to ask around.

Let me know if you have any questions. Thanks!

[dumbhead]

"Tests at Pearson (actual testing center) is great, having 8 practice tests there. "

I will call Pearson center monday and check.

[amitchell]

"Tests at Pearson (actual testing center) is great, having 8 practice tests there. "

I will call Pearson center monday and check.

Just to clarify - the Official Test Day Experience is available only to students who are enrolled in a Kaplan GMAT program. If you're enrolled with Kaplan, you can schedule an Experience by logging into your (Kaplan) Online Center and going to "My CATs" (there's also a video in the Help section).