Preparation is key for graduate school entry examinations

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By Rafaella Cuff

Preparing for application to graduate school is hardly a stress-free process, especially when the graduate entry exams are drawing closer. Whether students are taking the GRE, GMAT, LSAT or MCAT, they understand that they have to score within a certain range to be competitive in their graduate school program of choice.

The first thing to note is that students must research the graduate programs and universities that they are interested in to find out which test is necessary for them to take.

For some, achieving a score within the appropriate range requires a lot of studying and preparation, and thus, it also induces anxiety. To achieve their appropriate score, students should at least read into the structure of the exam. Usually, a test overview is offered by the company that creates the test and is available via the Internet.

Melissa Newman, an animal science major at LSU, took the GRE recently as one of the application requirements for veterinary school.

"Try to relax, and be confident. Learn how to approach the test and be aware of the types of questions that are asked. The more you know about the exam's format, the easier it is to take the exam," advised Newman to fellow test takers.

Practice tests and reviewing concepts covered in the examinations help students to excel in the exams. For some, learning comes easier in a classroom setting, and classes are offered by test prep centers such as Kaplan and the Princeton Review.

But just how seriously should students take these graduate exams?

Dr. Renée L.A. Renegar, director of graduate admissions at LSU, emphasizes the importance of graduate entry exams but notes that other factors are significant in the application process.

"Just like all other elements of an application, students should take the exam very seriously," said Dr. Renegar. "Anything that students can do to make themselves stand out to an admissions committee will increase their chances for acceptance into a graduate program. Good test scores, good GPAs, good statements of purpose and good letters of recommendation make applicants more competitive in their goals to become graduate students."

Mr. Dana Hart, assistant director of Enrollment and Student Services for the LSU Flores MBA Program, understands the GMAT from the perspective of the graduate school program.

"I think there is a lot of anxiety around standardized tests," said Mr. Hart. "Sometimes, it is due to confusion about what it ultimately weighs. In the Flores MBA Program, we do value the GMAT for its ability to assess student's analytical skills, problem-solving skills and reading comprehension and verbal skills."

"A good GMAT score can certainly help with eligibility in the program and merit-based funding, but it is not everything," he added. "We do take a holistic view of each applicant, versus only focusing on the numbers. We use the GMAT as an evaluation tool and a guide. I think if students take the time needed to study and prepare, they can do quite well on the exam."

The point is not to treat these examinations laxly. Rather, students need to do as well as possible through preparation and studying for the exam. In addition, some students are very intelligent and studious but do not excel in standardized exams, and these students should understand that the exams will not ruin their chances to go to graduate school, provided they have the GPA and academic standing needed to get into the program.

Originally Published: Issue 807 - July 8, 2009

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