EPPP practice test scores for those who passed

[Dr. Stephany]

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AcronymA, I think that retaking it for $600 will be my mindset... My "coping thought."

I've been studying for about 3 months for ~9 hrs/week (most weeks), but it isn't until there is a fire under my *** that I can sit long enough to really get through any sizable amount of information. My postdoc ended early August and I've been studying non-stop for the last 2.5 weeks (moved back in with the parents at 33, yay for grad school!). It just doesn't seem to be helping because my practice scores aren't moving up. Took one again (AR exam center) last night and scored a 65. However, I felt more confident while taking it because there were definitely things that I didn't know last week. That's why I googled the topic of practice scores relating to actual test scores.

As for the test anxiety, I do better in relaxed environments and Prometric worries me. I would hate to have to shell out money to get re-tested for accommodations and then another $600. I've been able to get through grad school with a great GPA and no test anxiety (lots of GAD), but memories of GRE haunt me. The first time I took it at a Prometric center in Gainesville and it was awful. I retook the exam at UNF in Jacksonville in a hallway of three computers and did almost 300 points better with no real change to my studying strategy. Unfortunately, the EPPP is Prometric or bust.

I think my tactic is going to be going over my notes today and the questions I got wrong on practice exams. Any other suggestions will be well-received! My exam is at 4pm tomorrow, so I will probably listen to the CDs tomorrow and review the concepts that keep popping up but not sticking.

Is it legal to ask if people felt there were a lot of questions about duration of symptoms required for diagnoses? If not, just don't respond. I seem to keep mixing up the 3-month and 6-month duration rules and there were 4-5 questions on my practice test last night with that specific question. I know people said the actual questions felt easier during the EPPP, would that fit the same rule?

 

[AcronymAllergy]

AcronymA, I think that retaking it for $600 will be my mindset... My "coping thought."

I've been studying for about 3 months for ~9 hrs/week (most weeks), but it isn't until there is a fire under my *** that I can sit long enough to really get through any sizable amount of information. My postdoc ended early August and I've been studying non-stop for the last 2.5 weeks (moved back in with the parents at 33, yay for grad school!). It just doesn't seem to be helping because my practice scores aren't moving up. Took one again (AR exam center) last night and scored a 65. However, I felt more confident while taking it because there were definitely things that I didn't know last week. That's why I googled the topic of practice scores relating to actual test scores.

As for the test anxiety, I do better in relaxed environments and Prometric worries me. I would hate to have to shell out money to get re-tested for accommodations and then another $600. I've been able to get through grad school with a great GPA and no test anxiety (lots of GAD), but memories of GRE haunt me. The first time I took it at a Prometric center in Gainesville and it was awful. I retook the exam at UNF in Jacksonville in a hallway of three computers and did almost 300 points better with no real change to my studying strategy. Unfortunately, the EPPP is Prometric or bust.

I think my tactic is going to be going over my notes today and the questions I got wrong on practice exams. Any other suggestions will be well-received! My exam is at 4pm tomorrow, so I will probably listen to the CDs tomorrow and review the concepts that keep popping up but not sticking.

Is it legal to ask if people felt there were a lot of questions about duration of symptoms required for diagnoses? If not, just don't respond. I seem to keep mixing up the 3-month and 6-month duration rules and there were 4-5 questions on my practice test last night with that specific question. I know people said the actual questions felt easier during the EPPP, would that fit the same rule?

Folks taking the test aren't allowed to discuss the content of specific questions, but it sounds like based on the time and amount you've studied, you're probably more prepared than you realize. If it helps, I was the king of procrastinators when it came to the EPPP, and didn't end up actually studying until a couple weeks before the exam. So it's possible to do so and pass. I obviously wouldn't recommend it, and it's not something that would be ok with everyone, but it's possible.

 

[psyman]

AcronymA, I think that retaking it for $600 will be my mindset... My "coping thought."

I've been studying for about 3 months for ~9 hrs/week (most weeks), but it isn't until there is a fire under my *** that I can sit long enough to really get through any sizable amount of information. My postdoc ended early August and I've been studying non-stop for the last 2.5 weeks (moved back in with the parents at 33, yay for grad school!). It just doesn't seem to be helping because my practice scores aren't moving up. Took one again (AR exam center) last night and scored a 65. However, I felt more confident while taking it because there were definitely things that I didn't know last week. That's why I googled the topic of practice scores relating to actual test scores.

As for the test anxiety, I do better in relaxed environments and Prometric worries me. I would hate to have to shell out money to get re-tested for accommodations and then another $600. I've been able to get through grad school with a great GPA and no test anxiety (lots of GAD), but memories of GRE haunt me. The first time I took it at a Prometric center in Gainesville and it was awful. I retook the exam at UNF in Jacksonville in a hallway of three computers and did almost 300 points better with no real change to my studying strategy. Unfortunately, the EPPP is Prometric or bust.

I think my tactic is going to be going over my notes today and the questions I got wrong on practice exams. Any other suggestions will be well-received! My exam is at 4pm tomorrow, so I will probably listen to the CDs tomorrow and review the concepts that keep popping up but not sticking.

Is it legal to ask if people felt there were a lot of questions about duration of symptoms required for diagnoses? If not, just don't respond. I seem to keep mixing up the 3-month and 6-month duration rules and there were 4-5 questions on my practice test last night with that specific question. I know people said the actual questions felt easier during the EPPP, would that fit the same rule?

I studied beginning 5 weeks out for around 100 hours total probably (including a workshop) and passed my first try. Likely you are ready! Know that everyone thinks they failed when they walk out. I was sure I failed when I was halfway done.

 

[Menolly]

AcronymA, I think that retaking it for $600 will be my mindset... My "coping thought."

I've been studying for about 3 months for ~9 hrs/week (most weeks), but it isn't until there is a fire under my *** that I can sit long enough to really get through any sizable amount of information. My postdoc ended early August and I've been studying non-stop for the last 2.5 weeks (moved back in with the parents at 33, yay for grad school!). It just doesn't seem to be helping because my practice scores aren't moving up. Took one again (AR exam center) last night and scored a 65. However, I felt more confident while taking it because there were definitely things that I didn't know last week. That's why I googled the topic of practice scores relating to actual test scores.

As for the test anxiety, I do better in relaxed environments and Prometric worries me. I would hate to have to shell out money to get re-tested for accommodations and then another $600. I've been able to get through grad school with a great GPA and no test anxiety (lots of GAD), but memories of GRE haunt me. The first time I took it at a Prometric center in Gainesville and it was awful. I retook the exam at UNF in Jacksonville in a hallway of three computers and did almost 300 points better with no real change to my studying strategy. Unfortunately, the EPPP is Prometric or bust.

I think my tactic is going to be going over my notes today and the questions I got wrong on practice exams. Any other suggestions will be well-received! My exam is at 4pm tomorrow, so I will probably listen to the CDs tomorrow and review the concepts that keep popping up but not sticking.

Is it legal to ask if people felt there were a lot of questions about duration of symptoms required for diagnoses? If not, just don't respond. I seem to keep mixing up the 3-month and 6-month duration rules and there were 4-5 questions on my practice test last night with that specific question. I know people said the actual questions felt easier during the EPPP, would that fit the same rule?

I'm not sure if you already took it? Sounds like it was yesterday. Let us know how it went! My vote anyway was to go ahead and take it. I just took the test mid-August after studying about 3 months, and from what you describe, like me it doesn't sound like the test anxiety will go away if you postpone. I'm still waiting to find out if I passed. Things that helped me with my anxiety were tips from other posters on this board:
1) Pick a time of day where you feel most in control to counteract the anxiety.
2) Eat a protein-rich breakfast and try to get some exercise before the test.
3) Bring your own earplugs (I had a speed typer behind me that apparently launched into a dissertation about three hours into my test).
4) Ask for the white board and write down things you need to remember while you are going through the pre-test training session (preserve your test time for the questions).
5) Write in big letters on your white board "I will pass the EPPP!" and look down at it whenever you are feeling overwhelmed.
6) Expect some questions that you have never seen before and remember they might be experimental. My first two questions were complete killers and started me down a short panic ride.
7) Watch the clock! I was accustomed to 200 questions of practice tests and the extra 25 questions took me (of course) an extra 30 minutes. I ended up having to pick up my pace to finish. I also marked way too many questions! I took no break and it was still a battle to finish.
8) If you are in the middle of the exam or reviewing your marked responses when the clock runs out, you get this message box saying "You have run out of time." Like another poster, for me this was followed by a blank screen for a solid minute, causing me to wonder if the system had recorded any of my responses. After this, I did get the final questionnaire, so I'm assuming it was okay. But it's a scary moment, and I'd recommend trying to be in control of ending your exam with the more traditional route (not sure what this is, but I assume there's a "Finish Exam" button from the review screen).
9) Be prepared to feel like you failed, and reassure yourself that you will take it until you pass!

Best wishes!

 

[Menolly]

And at last I'm back from my vacation and was able to find out I passed! 649, yay! THANK YOU everyone who has posted on this thread. I got some great ideas from previous posters that helped calm my anxiety.

So FYI for New Yorkers, there's a paragraph in my letter that says they are accepting 500 as the pass standard now, but still converting it to their pass score. Since my understanding was that the 500 was a 70, I don't understand how they do that and keep the converted pass of 75, but there it is.

FYI for DSM-5 worriers, I took the exam in mid-August after the switchover, and did not find this a big deal. Remember, they only devote a certain percentage of questions on treatment/diagnosis -- worst case on any exam, there's only going to be a few questions hitting DSM-related material. The main reason I was glad I studied the DSM-5 was that it's useful since we have switched over to it in my job.

As far as my practice exams, etc., I used a mishmash of resources. Note, I did NOT spend on the big prep classes (couldn't afford to both in terms of time and money). Here is what I did in case it's helpful:

1) I got my hands on some old (2006) exams with the answers. My first practice test was about 50% - so demoralizing, but really scared me into studying. By the end of three months (really studying in the last six weeks) I got to 70% on these, but honestly I started to feel like they were more anxiety-provoking than they were worth. The best use of these is to hammer home the message that the questions and answer choices on the test are designed to trip you up. In total, I doubt I studied more than 150 hours.
2) I bought the much-maligned EPPP Fundamentals book by Moore and Klee. I found it very helpful to cover the basics, although it was weak on DSM-5 and Ethics. I made note cards of EVERYTHING that I didn't know solid. On the final practice questions at the back of the book I got a 91%.
3) I also downloaded three iPhone apps that were free: EPPP Lite, EPPP Mobile, and EPPP Prep. I found EPPP Mobile (by AATBS) most helpful, so I ended up buying 5 of their mock exams for about $35.
4) I used Wikipedia and Google to deepen my understanding of the kinds of stats, behavioral theory and diagnosis/treatment questions that were cropping up on my tests.
5) I borrowed an org psych book from my friend and read a few chapters.
6) I got my husband to take the kids away for the final weekend, which was AMAZING.

Good luck, everyone!

 

[Mipsyd]

And at last I'm back from my vacation and was able to find out I passed! 649, yay! THANK YOU everyone who has posted on this thread. I got some great ideas from previous posters that helped calm my anxiety.

So FYI for New Yorkers, there's a paragraph in my letter that says they are accepting 500 as the pass standard now, but still converting it to their pass score. Since my understanding was that the 500 was a 70, I don't understand how they do that and keep the converted pass of 75, but there it is.

FYI for DSM-5 worriers, I took the exam in mid-August after the switchover, and did not find this a big deal. Remember, they only devote a certain percentage of questions on treatment/diagnosis -- worst case on any exam, there's only going to be a few questions hitting DSM-related material. The main reason I was glad I studied the DSM-5 was that it's useful since we have switched over to it in my job.

As far as my practice exams, etc., I used a mishmash of resources. Note, I did NOT spend on the big prep classes (couldn't afford to both in terms of time and money). Here is what I did in case it's helpful:

1) I got my hands on some old (2006) exams with the answers. My first practice test was about 50% - so demoralizing, but really scared me into studying. By the end of three months (really studying in the last six weeks) I got to 70% on these, but honestly I started to feel like they were more anxiety-provoking than they were worth. The best use of these is to hammer home the message that the questions and answer choices on the test are designed to trip you up. In total, I doubt I studied more than 150 hours.
2) I bought the much-maligned EPPP Fundamentals book by Moore and Klee. I found it very helpful to cover the basics, although it was weak on DSM-5 and Ethics. I made note cards of EVERYTHING that I didn't know solid. On the final practice questions at the back of the book I got a 91%.
3) I also downloaded three iPhone apps that were free: EPPP Lite, EPPP Mobile, and EPPP Prep. I found EPPP Mobile (by AATBS) most helpful, so I ended up buying 5 of their mock exams for about $35.
4) I used Wikipedia and Google to deepen my understanding of the kinds of stats, behavioral theory and diagnosis/treatment questions that were cropping up on my tests.
5) I borrowed an org psych book from my friend and read a few chapters.
6) I got my husband to take the kids away for the final weekend, which was AMAZING.

Good luck, everyone!

Congrats.

 

[Mipsyd]

Congrats on your passing.

 

[Denacool]

Congratulations!

 

[Jerseydoc1234]

Still don't get it. I've been studying and taking AR practice tests and can't score above mid 60s. Am I overstudying? Not studying enough? I've been at this EPPP nonsense for over two years now, and my patience and sanity are dwindling. This test is the most difficult thing I have ever done. There is no definite clarity in the answers and it doesn't matter which testing company you choose. I'm baffled and frustrated beyond belief. In need of support/empathy.

 

[Mipsyd]

Still don't get it. I've been studying and taking AR practice tests and can't score above mid 60s. Am I overstudying? Not studying enough? I've been at this EPPP nonsense for over two years now, and my patience and sanity are dwindling. This test is the most difficult thing I have ever done. There is no definite clarity in the answers and it doesn't matter which testing company you choose. I'm baffled and frustrated beyond belief. In need of support/empathy.

I'm sorry to hear that your still struggling. The only advice I can give is to relax and try to figure out where your answers and the quiz makers answers differ. Maybe in your analysis you can come up with a strategy or understand why your answer may be different. Good luck. I know this help is not much, but it's worth a try.

 

[Dr. Stephany]

I'm not sure if you already took it? Sounds like it was yesterday. Let us know how it went!

I forgot to come back and tell you all that I PASSED. Phew. It was close, but not too close. I never did get over a 67 on the Academic Review online exams, to bring it back to the purpose of this thread! I definitely went in calm and with a strategy. I think that helped the most.

My test strategy: I went through the first time and answered the ones I knew for sure, crossed out answers I were sure were incorrect, marked questions to come back to, and left some unanswered. My second round was to answer those unanswered questions (in case I ran out of time), and marked the ones I was still unsure of while crossing out choices I could eliminate. At this point, I was about 2.5 hours in and took a break, ate an apple, walked a bit. I took another 30-40 minutes making decisions on questions still marked AND still had time to go through most of the exam once more to make sure I read the questions correctly.

So glad to put this part of my studies behind me and I wish you ALL the best of luck on your exam!

 

[Dr. Stephany]

Still don't get it. I've been studying and taking AR practice tests and can't score above mid 60s. Am I overstudying? Not studying enough? I've been at this EPPP nonsense for over two years now, and my patience and sanity are dwindling. This test is the most difficult thing I have ever done. There is no definite clarity in the answers and it doesn't matter which testing company you choose. I'm baffled and frustrated beyond belief. In need of support/empathy.

I don't think more analysis is what you need... too much stress!! If you read above, I never scored above a 67. Another friend was the same way and we both passed. I would just keep moving forward. I found the AATBS cards to be helpful in nailing down concepts and the AR exams were best at teaching strategies for answering questions. I think if I would have gone into the exam annoyed and frustrated, I would definitely NOT passed. You've got this. Do whatever you can to reduce the frustration and don't worry so much about "passing" the AR tests. You are scoring right where I was just a few days before I sat for the exam. Kinda like grad school, you gotta fake it till you make it...

 

[AC1234]

Still don't get it. I've been studying and taking AR practice tests and can't score above mid 60s. Am I overstudying? Not studying enough? I've been at this EPPP nonsense for over two years now, and my patience and sanity are dwindling. This test is the most difficult thing I have ever done. There is no definite clarity in the answers and it doesn't matter which testing company you choose. I'm baffled and frustrated beyond belief. In need of support/empathy.

I think the board should get together and start a FundMe page to send you on a tropical vacation. All expenses paid. Beach. Sun. No studying. 😉 Sorry you're still dealing with this EPPP stuff... I hope it all turns out okay.

 

[Jerseydoc1234]

I think the board should get together and start a FundMe page to send you on a tropical vacation. All expenses paid. Beach. Sun. No studying. 😉 Sorry you're still dealing with this EPPP stuff... I hope it all turns out okay.

Thank you! I know the reality is that that will never happen, on a brighter note, yesterday I got a 74% on a first attempt at an Academic Review practice test, and I scheduled EPPP attempt #3 for the end of next month! Keeping my fingers, toes, eyes, and legs crossed for a positive outcome this time!!!

 

[Mipsyd]

Thank you! I know the reality is that that will never happen, on a brighter note, yesterday I got a 74% on a first attempt at an Academic Review practice test, and I scheduled EPPP attempt #3 for the end of next month! Keeping my fingers, toes, eyes, and legs crossed for a positive outcome this time!!!

Good for you. I think the confidence boost will help you relax a bit. Good luck and keep us informed. You got this!

 

[Menolly]

I forgot to come back and tell you all that I PASSED. Phew. It was close, but not too close. I never did get over a 67 on the Academic Review online exams, to bring it back to the purpose of this thread! I definitely went in calm and with a strategy. I think that helped the most.

My test strategy: I went through the first time and answered the ones I knew for sure, crossed out answers I were sure were incorrect, marked questions to come back to, and left some unanswered. My second round was to answer those unanswered questions (in case I ran out of time), and marked the ones I was still unsure of while crossing out choices I could eliminate. At this point, I was about 2.5 hours in and took a break, ate an apple, walked a bit. I took another 30-40 minutes making decisions on questions still marked AND still had time to go through most of the exam once more to make sure I read the questions correctly.

So glad to put this part of my studies behind me and I wish you ALL the best of luck on your exam!

Congrats!!

 

[Jerseydoc1234]

I just got a 610 on the PEPPO today and I have been getting 72% or above on all my Academic Review practice tests!!!!!!! I'm in good shape, TEST day is this FRIDAY! Positive thoughts please 🙂

 

[Mipsyd]

I just got a 610 on the PEPPO today and I have been getting 72% or above on all my Academic Review practice tests!!!!!!! I'm in good shape, TEST day is this FRIDAY! Positive thoughts please 🙂

Sending positive vibes your way. Remember you got this!

 

[AC1234]

I just got a 610 on the PEPPO today and I have been getting 72% or above on all my Academic Review practice tests!!!!!!! I'm in good shape, TEST day is this FRIDAY! Positive thoughts please 🙂

I got a 610 on the peppo as well, hope it ends the same way for you as it did with me!

 

[SpiceyT]

I just got a 610 on the PEPPO today and I have been getting 72% or above on all my Academic Review practice tests!!!!!!! I'm in good shape, TEST day is this FRIDAY! Positive thoughts please 🙂

You are in great shape!!! Hope it went well!

 

[drashbird]

Hello all, I have been reading this as I prepared but haven't posted. I appreciate all your stories and indirect support. I took the beast on October 22 in NY and needless to say I am DYING here waiting. Can anyone tell me how to go about using the online sources for hints as to whether I passed before receiving my letter in the mail? If I go on the Office of the Professions site or AATBS how can I search? Thanks so much... fingers and toes crossed!

 

[WisNeuro]

They won't send your scores until the end of the month if I remember correctly (they send on the 15th, and the final day of the month). From the EPPP Website

"Generally speaking, examination scores will be available to licensing boards or their agents within 6 business days after the 15th and last days of each month. Once scores are received by the jurisdiction or its agent, there are various methods by which they may choose to provide examination results to their licensure applicants. The amount of time it takes for you to receive your score will depend on the process chosen by your licensing board. In some jurisdictions the board contracts with an agent to send scores to candidates on their behalf, some other jurisdictions send the examination results by postal service, or email, and other jurisdictions may choose to release scores through the online EPPPP registration system."

My advice, chill the **** out, wait at least a week and a half, if you haven't heard, call your licensing board and/or aspbb and see if they have some news for you.

 

[erg923]

My advice, chill the **** out.

 

[Jerseydoc1234]

After over a year of studying, two failed attempts, thousands of dollars spent, blood, sweat, and a lot of tears, I found out today that I PASSED the $%^ing EPPP!!!!!!!! I'm so relieved that this hell is finally over!!!!! Thank you for all your support 🙂

 

[AC1234]

After over a year of studying, two failed attempts, thousands of dollars spent, blood, sweat, and a lot of tears, I found out today that I PASSED the $%^ing EPPP!!!!!!!! I'm so relieved that this hell is finally over!!!!! Thank you for all your support 🙂

NICE!!!! Way to go!

 

[Mipsyd]

After over a year of studying, two failed attempts, thousands of dollars spent, blood, sweat, and a lot of tears, I found out today that I PASSED the $%^ing EPPP!!!!!!!! I'm so relieved that this hell is finally over!!!!! Thank you for all your support 🙂

Congratulations!

 

[Louise T.]

After over a year of studying, two failed attempts, thousands of dollars spent, blood, sweat, and a lot of tears, I found out today that I PASSED the $%^ing EPPP!!!!!!!! I'm so relieved that this hell is finally over!!!!! Thank you for all your support 🙂

Congratulations! You rock!

 

[Louise T.]

Hi All,
I never did update here how things turned out for me. I took the exam on July 29, and passed with a good margin. Thank God - I never have to go through this Hell again. And that's exactly what the process was for me.

So, just to document for anyone who is interested: I used a combination of materials from Academic Review, AATBS, as well as PsychPrep. Some of these materials were hand-me-downs, I would say that the key factor in my passing was doing a ton of practice questions, and really studying the rationales. The questions I used most were from AATBS, using their online TestMaster program.

Thanks to everyone who has participated here - it really is helpful to see how folks are approaching this Beast, or how they did do so. I found this site close to the time I was to take the exam, and it did wonders helping with the tremendous anxiety I was experiencing.

So again, thank you all very much!

All the best,
Louise T.

 

[Mipsyd]

Hi All,
I never did update here how things turned out for me. I took the exam on July 29, and passed with a good margin. Thank God - I never have to go through this Hell again. And that's exactly what the process was for me.

So, just to document for anyone who is interested: I used a combination of materials from Academic Review, AATBS, as well as PsychPrep. Some of these materials were hand-me-downs, I would say that the key factor in my passing was doing a ton of practice questions, and really studying the rationales. The questions I used most were from AATBS, using their online TestMaster program.

Thanks to everyone who has participated here - it really is helpful to see how folks are approaching this Beast, or how they did do so. I found this site close to the time I was to take the exam, and it did wonders helping with the tremendous anxiety I was experiencing.

So again, thank you all very much!

All the best,
Louise T.

Congrats

 

[drxl3]

I took the exam in July 2014 and did not pass (scored a 480) and studied only around 70 hours across 1-2 months using AATBS. I was hoping I could slide though but I clearly understudied. I was just trying to take it before the new DSM-5 material appeared on the exam. I re-took the exam on October 30, 2014 and found out 11 days later that I passed with a 550. I studied an additional 75-100 hours easily. I used PsychPrep the second time (audiotapes were great!!!) and AATBS practice exams. Psychprep Practice Test E I scored a 62% and on the AATBS practice exams I was scoring between a 58-64% on the first time I took the exams. Second time I took the exams, I was scoring in the 80's. Hope this info was helpful. I felt horrible after I didn't pass... but I just didn't dedicate enough time. If you put in the time and manage your anxiety (especially using the tapes with the test strategies) you are in good shape!

 

[dmartin0830]

I have a somewhat similar story to Jerseydoc. I just found out today that I failed for the second time with a score of 486. I'm devastated because even though I was unsure after I left the testing center, I was scoring between 75-80% on my AATBS practice tests and I took a couple other practice tests and scored a 73% and 80%. I thought I was ready and I don't know what happened. I now want to study for another month or two with a different exam prep company since I feel like I've exhausted AATBS. I'm choosing between Academic Review and PsychPrep. Can those of you who have studied with these companies please give me your reviews and tell me which you liked better? Thanks.

 

[Therapist4Chnge]

I used PsychPrep (just the online exams, with explanations…I think 6 of them?) and found it much more straight forward that the AATBS outlines/notes/questions I primarily used. I felt like the exams were closer to the EPPP than the AATBS, which felt masochistic at times.

 

[SpiceyT]

After over a year of studying, two failed attempts, thousands of dollars spent, blood, sweat, and a lot of tears, I found out today that I PASSED the $%^ing EPPP!!!!!!!! I'm so relieved that this hell is finally over!!!!! Thank you for all your support 🙂

Yay!!! Congrats!!!! I've been thinking about you!

 

[AcronymAllergy]

I used PsychPrep (just the online exams, with explanations…I think 6 of them?) and found it much more straight forward that the AATBS outlines/notes/questions I primarily used. I felt like the exams were closer to the EPPP than the AATBS, which felt masochistic at times.

I would agree, but actually preferred the difficult nature of the AATBS practice exams, because the "real deal" seemed much easier by comparison. Sort of like when folks wear ankle weights while practicing for basketball.

 

[Andromeda's Echo]

Passed. Mid 600's. My highest score on an AATBS practice test was a 64%. I think I took four and my average was a 60%. I found the actual test much easier/simpler than the AATBS ones, with similar content. My strategy was to just take practice exams, focus any studying on my weak areas (I/O). I did make a few flash cards of frequently missed questions, which was helpful for the exam.

I had a similar experience and found that I could never get above the high 60s on my practice exams but did much better on the EPPP. I just got my score back (676) and am wondering if anyone knows roughly what percentile or percent that corresponds to?

 

[futurepsydoc]

I thought I would share my approach, in the hopes that it could be useful to others. I know read through many posts before deciding how I would study for the exam.

Like others, I was fortunate to have classmates, friends, and colleagues share materials that have been passed down for several years. I am grateful to those who started the trend.

Before I began studying, I decided to take 4 non-psychprep tests to get a baseline sense of where I stood. My average scores across these exams was 65%. After a 2 week break, I studied for about 5 consecutive weeks, ranging from 4-8 hours per day, using older versions of psychprep study materials (i.e., lectures and handouts). I took one test at the start which I used for study purposes only. I took the remaining tests under testing conditions at the end of each week (B-E) and averaged 75% (first pass) on easier versions and 72% on the final test (first pass). At the end my study period, I retook all of the missed items, roughly 220 over the 5 exams, and scored about 75%. My sense was that I had hit a plateau.

Because the materials were older, I augmented my materials with newer sources to address DSM-5. I did this after taking the last test. I was able to find video lecture on the main differences between DSM-IV-TR and DSM-5. Since I had been using the DSM-5 over the last year, I was familiar with some but not all of the changes. I also read through some sections that I was less familiar with to ensure that I was not caught off guard.

Finally, I took the PEPPPO at home a few days before I was scheduled to take the actual test and scored slightly above 550. Initially, I was a bit unsure if that was enough breathing room, but my scores on the psychprep tests were stable and I felt like I reached a plateau, as mentioned before. Based on what I read on this forum, I believed I was in good shape and did not think my score on any practice materials (AR, AATBS, other) I would improve with any more studying.

Like others have reported, I ended up scoring much higher on the actual exam - mid 600s - versus the PEPPO and study exams. When I finished the exam, I honestly did not feel good or bad about what transpired, I was just exhausted. I had no clue how I did. I am just glad I passed.

Good luck to everyone studying!!!



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[懐石さん]

Has anybody who took the exam in November encountered any DSM 5 content? All my best

 

[Milk Milk Milk]

FWIW: I passed the EPPP this summer, on first try. I used PsychPrep only and followed the 14-week outline...kinda'. I ended up doing true heavy-grind studying for about 4-6 wks out of those 14, and that was at the end of the 14-week schedule when I approached panic mode.

I didn't do flashcards or anything like that. Just read materials a few times, listened to MP3s, and took practice exams. And then reviewed all of the missed items on the practice exams until I achieved "mastery", as advised. The advisement came via the PsychPrep expert feedback and that was somewhat helpful - it was nice to know my scores were "on track" - but really no one but you can tell when you're ready to sit for the exam. I also took the PEPPO and a hand-me-down copy of the retired items test two weeks before EPPP. All scores were in the same ballpark as my actual score.

 

[bmedclinic]

Hey All,
I am in the midst of studying.. and curious about feedback. I am using a combo- AATBS books / hand me down cd's/ and Academic Review 3 month online "practice quizzes". I still have 1.5 months left of the 3 months, but wonder about those that have used AR-- are their materials harder than the actual EPPP. Sorry If I missed others posts, but most people appear to be using just PsychPrep or AATBS and not AR.

Thanks,
Bmedclinic

 

[SadMary]

My personal take--I'd go ahead and schedule it, as that still gives you another ~month to study. I don't think I ever scored above a 69% on any of the test prep company practice exams, and I still managed a score in the mid-600's somewhere. I also ended up only truly studying for a couple weeks, but I wouldn't necessarily recommend that particular method of cramming to anyone; rather, I'd say 4 to 6 weeks of concentrated study (in total) should be enough time to get where you need to be. But worst-case, I know folks who've taken few days/a week off from work, mashed in a good 40-60 hours' worth of studying, and passed.

Everyone is different, of course, but I think there's some fear mongering by some of the test prep organizations (and perhaps inadvertently by other test takers) that leads to folks often over-preparing for the exam.

Well I wish you would tell me how you did that, I have taken the exam twice and can't pass what's your advice?

 

[SadMary]

FWIW: I passed the EPPP this summer, on first try. I used PsychPrep only and followed the 14-week outline...kinda'. I ended up doing true heavy-grind studying for about 4-6 wks out of those 14, and that was at the end of the 14-week schedule when I approached panic mode.

I didn't do flashcards or anything like that. Just read materials a few times, listened to MP3s, and took practice exams. And then reviewed all of the missed items on the practice exams until I achieved "mastery", as advised. The advisement came via the PsychPrep expert feedback and that was somewhat helpful - it was nice to know my scores were "on track" - but really no one but you can tell when you're ready to sit for the exam. I also took the PEPPO and a hand-me-down copy of the retired items test two weeks before EPPP. All scores were in the same ballpark as my actual score.

Do you still have the material I can buy from you?

 

[SadMary]

Took my exam June 30 and found out I passed in Texas a couple days ago (though results were bundled with another Texas exam). So, maybe 2-3 weeks for EPPP scores. I passed, although like many others here, I found the actual test to be difficult because it wasn't very similar to the practice tests I used from Psych Prep or AATBS. Actually, I found the real test questions to be both more straightforward and at a more basic level than the practice test questions, which you would think would be a positive thing. However, I felt like the practice tests weren't pitched at the right level compared to the actual test, so that made the actual test seem harder. As with any test with an infinite base of questions, I felt like there were many items on the exam I hadn't seen before alongside a ton of stuff I knew well that wasn't asked. I also felt like what was asked was more petty or minor stuff in comparison to the stuff I'd seen over and over again on practice exams that just weren't on the actual exam. I should note that my materials were a couple of years old. If I had to do it again, I'd consider taking some of the retired test questions.

I took it after scoring three consecutive practice tests above 70, after about 7 other exams that were not at that level, so this approach worked fine for me. I did not take the PREPPO or whatever it's actually called - didn't seem worth the money.

What type of month did you take the exam? I took it twice at the end of the month and they were both hard and stuff I had never seen before.

 

[SadMary]

I found out my score yesterday evening, via en email link. Luckily I passed with a 625. But I'm still PISSED. I'm sorry they are keeping you waiting, Vespoli13. Best wishes to you.

Maybe it would be helpful to add, for those who are about to embark on their study processes, that I studied from old materials for the most part and did just fine - from 2006 (Academic Review). I did take some recent practice tests from AATBS, however.

And to reiterate what I wrote above, I also felt as though I failed after leaving the test. So don't let that be your judge.

I hope that my anger about this test - the cost, the content (job evaluation vs. job analysis? give me an effing break), etc. - doesn't go away simply because I passed. More people need to speak out against this final hurdle they ask psychologists to jump through (after the GRE, the psychology GRE, the undergrad GPA, the research and clinical volunteer experiences, the clinical practica, the graduate coursework, the comprehensive exams, the dissertation, the internship, the postdoctoral hours, the debt) and put their lives on hold for. And all for an underpaid (and often underappreciated) profession. It's pretty disgraceful. I'm contemplating how it might be different.

Did you take the exam at the middle of the month or beginning?

 

[SadMary]

Congrats all!! You must feel so awesome! Go celebrate!

I on the other hand will be repeating the exam..... Ahhhhhhhhhh! It's ok. I'm over it. Although it's a small part, Stats really kills my confidence, so I rushed through it. I could also feel a head cold coming on, which has since blown into a sinus and ear infection, and bronchitis. Fun stuff with 4 kids under 6!

Probably going to retake in the fall. On the 15th or 31st!

Congrats again to all who passed!


Sent from my iPhone using SDN Mobile

I know how you feel I didn't pass twice what time of the month did you take it?

 

[SadMary]

Have anyone not passed twice? Please give me some advice I only have one month before my year is up and I have to redo my who application again. Please, please help.

 

[SadMary]

Passed. Mid 600's. My highest score on an AATBS practice test was a 64%. I think I took four and my average was a 60%. I found the actual test much easier/simpler than the AATBS ones, with similar content. My strategy was to just take practice exams, focus any studying on my weak areas (I/O). I did make a few flash cards of frequently missed questions, which was helpful for the exam.

What time of the month did you take it?

 

[SadMary]

I can understand why you feel burnt-out! I know it's probably not what you want to hear, but I would reduce my studying or find a novel way to study the information. For example, maybe have a relative or sig. other quiz you on materials or test questions; break up the pattern you've been studying in. Another tip would be to study in as many different locations as you can.

I'm exactly where you are. I'm sorry I know how you feel. Hang in there.

 

[SadMary]

I found it very helpful to have this info from others, so here's how I studied. I'm generally a good test taker, so I was trying to be conscious about not over studying. I ended up feeling that this was a pretty decent amount for me, though I was still nervous the day of the exam and afterward.

• I started about 2 months before I took it, and put in around 10 hours a week of studying at first. I did not study over weekends. Maybe it was actually more than 10 hours, though, if I include the passive half-listening I did of the AATBS audio CDs to and from my post-doc. I found that the audio CDs were more helpful towards the end of my studying than the beginning, since I would tune in and out while driving. They were nice for reviewing material I had already encountered.
• I purchased the AR practice exam package. I took my first exam cold and then took several more throughout my studying depending on when I had a chunk of time to do them. My scores on these had a very truncated range (62%-68%). They also didn't seem to correlate at all with how much studying I had already done. On my first exam, I got a 64%; on the one I took the day before my actual exam I got a 66%. So, I would say that if you are consistently scoring in the 66%+ range, you're probably ready to sit for the exam.
• I took the AR diagnostic exam twice throughout my studying. I passed both of these attempts with a 76% and an 84%. I definitely found the diagnostic exam to be easier than the AR practice exams.
• I used old AATBS CDs and workbooks from 2006 or 2007. I thought that reviewing material in the books was helpful, and this is how I did the majority of my studying outside of practice exams. I made my own flash cards as I went through these books, and had my husband drill me on these several times over the week before the exam.
• The last 2 weeks I stepped my game up and started taking more practice tests and reading more of the workbooks as well as still listening to the audio CDs. I probably put in about 20-25 hours each of the last two weeks. I was lucky enough to have down time at my post-doc to study, so I still took weekends off. On the day of the exam, I reviewed the flashcards I had been having the most difficulty with, but otherwise didn't try to cram.

I ended up feeling like the version of the EPPP I took was easier than the practice exams, but still challenging enough that I didn't k now whether or not I had passed upon leaving the exam. I had time left after finishing the questions to go back and review most of my answers, so that helped me feel more confident (but still not certain that I had passed). I recommend people do review their answers to as many questions as possible (not just the tricky ones you "marked") because this did give me some peace of mind during the wait to receive scores.

Hope that helps! I'm glad to be done with this thing!

When did you take it?

 

[SadMary]

I have no advice to give. You seemingly have done it all. The test is horrible, a pain in the ass, and it's a shame that people like yourself are put in a position where they need to rely on the examination in order to not eat cereal for every meal. I'm looking forward to Chex and Cheerios being only a small part of my daily meal as well. I hope the third time works out for you, you deserve to feel what it's like to see that > 500 score under your name. You probably already mentioned but when do you take it next? Are you getting licensed in Jersey?

Btw... I like your responses to other's answers. "Thabks for the unsolicited psychoanalysis. I'm not 'externalizing'". Ah, I miss the Northeast...

Good luck Jersey!

I feel your pain I know exactly how you feel.

 

[AcronymAllergy]

Well I wish you would tell me how you did that, I have taken the exam twice and can't pass what's your advice?

In my case, during the month prior to sitting for the exam, I:

1. Took an initial practice test, scored it, and figured out the areas in which I needed the most and least help
2. Reviewed a couple of these sections in their entirety over the course of about 2 weeks, skimmed through the materials for some of the others, and took/reviewed another 2-3 practice tests; this averaged out to perhaps an hour of studying/day; this is the part I don't recommend, as aiming for perhaps 2-3 hours/day instead would've avoided #3 below, which was...
3. During the 2 weeks prior to the exam, I basically crammed for anywhere from 4-8 hours/day and took something like a dozen additional practice tests; I more carefully reviewed the answers for all questions, which was my primary method of studying, and then skimmed through the actual study materials to review concepts that I had trouble readily calling to mind, or that were discussed in the answers to test questions but didn't sound familiar