Any big differences b/w testing sites?

[MissAmanda]

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Are there any main differences b/w testing sites I should ask about before deciding on a site? there are 3 that are close to me.

Do all testing sites use the white board with dry erase markers? The dry erase marker smell gives me a headache. Any that just give you paper/pencil?

Can we bring our own earplugs?

Are head warmers, hats, ear muffs, or hoods of any type allowed at the site? My ears always get cold from the air-conditioning 😳

 

[Rollo]

Ask about any construction going on around the testing site building or when the lawnmower guys come around the building. Have heard some stories about lawnmowers running outside the building making enough noise to disturb the test-takers inside.

Also ask how big the center is because more people taking different tests (MCAT, real estate boards, LSATs, etc.) means more traffic in and out of the room which might disturb you.

Also ask how many restrooms there are and if you need a key to go in them. My testing center, there were 2 keys each for male and female restrooms, and although I never had a problem waiting for people to come back with the keys, I could see how it could create a problem for you if you have to wait for restrooms to free up and whatnot.

 

[MissAmanda]

Thanks! What about the white board issue - same everywhere? Earplugs, hoods?

 

[235009]

Thanks! What about the white board issue - same everywhere? Earplugs, hoods?

i'm quite sure all the testing sites have to follow the same rules that are dictated to them by the NBME and some of the stipulations are even written into the on-screen tutorial (i think the white board is mentioned in there). Quite sure you can't have ear plugs or hats/hoodies. Disposable ear plugs should be provided and there is a pair of noise canceling headphones (we were asked whether they were available in the survey at the end of step 1). The NBME is very serious about the security of their tests so basically you aren't allowed to do a whole bunch of things.

 

[blueboyscholar]

you ARE aloud to bring your own disposable earplugs...I wore mine under the noise canceling phones they provided...completely blocked out all of the typing surrounding me.