Hi
Reader,
I have
been out of blogosphere for a long time. I was preparing for GMAT and working
on my application. These past six months have been a roller-coaster ride. I too
GMAT twice. In the first attempt I scored a 680 and in the second attempt
scored a 770. I will write in detail about GMAT preparation in next few posts.
This post is about GMAT Test Center Review so that others can make a good
decision.
I took
both my GMATs at Pearson Professional Center, Dickenson Road, Bangalore, India.
For those who are not aware, there are two GMAT centers in Bangalore – NTTF in
Electronics City and Pearson Professional Center in Dickenson Road. I chose
Pearson although NTTF is closer to my area because I had got some negative
feedbacks about the NTTF Center.
I
visited the Pearson Center a couple of days before my actual GMAT test day so
that I don’t get lost on test day. Although the test center is located in
Bangalore’s prime region, the center is still in a peaceful area. So traffic
noise does not create a disturbance while taking test. On both occasions I had
scheduled my exam in the morning session (9 AM slot). I reached the test center
around 45 minutes before scheduled time. I had to sign on a visitors register
and was asked to switch off my mobile before entering the test center. The
staff was very friendly and professional. We were some 7 test takers. The lady
on the front desk collected our passports gave us a leaflet to read the Terms
of Agreement. She then called us one by one to take signature, photograph, and
palm vein scan. I was not even asked for the print-out of the GMAT appointment
confirmation. I then put my bag in the locker assigned to me. After these
formalities, I was taken to test room and my palm vein was scanned again before
I was allowed to enter the test room. The second lady was also friendly and
professional. She explained some test center rules and gave me marker and
erasable pads. During the test, I didn’t face any issues or disturbance. I took
both of my 8 minute breaks. The test administrator promptly came to assist me
whenever I raised my hand to take my minute break. My palm vein was scanned
every time I came out of the test room and entered the test room. Washroom is
just outside the test room. After I finished my test, the administrator
assisted me outside the test room. I came to the front desk and collected my
unofficial score report. It is important
to collect your unofficial score report because the Authentication Code to
assess the Official report is printed ONLY on the unofficial score report.
After coming out of the test center, I had to sign again on the visitors
register and then left the venue.
Overall,
it was a great GMAT test experience with no problems of any kind on part of
Test Center and Staff. I would highly recommend the Pearson Test Center for
anyone planning to take GMAT in Bangalore. One advice for test day, Do not carry and reading material to the
test center. You will not be able to assess it.
Hope
this review helps. Coming up next is a snapshot of my GMAT preparation. Stay
Connected..!!!