Choosing the right testing center

Choosing a testing center is just as important as preparing for the test itself. Over the years, so many students have complained to me about the test centers at which they took the test. Complaints range from overly cramped conditions, no separators between computers, copying by other students and more commonly to the absence of an administrator during the exam. Unfortunately, these are more than common events and I receive at least 2-5 complaints every month. Here are a few tips to help you have the exam experience that you have paid for.

• Don't leave it to the last minute to register for the exam as you will have very little choice as to where you can take it.
  
• Before registering for the exam, go to the testing center of your choice and ask to see the testing room.
  
• Stay away from testing centers at language schools as their main priority is to their paying students. Also, these establishments only care about administering the test because of the number of students it attracts and not because they are interested in administering the test for educational purposes.
  
• If you can't find the right place for you in your own area, think about travelling out of town to take the test.
  
• Follow the advice of friends that may have already taken the exam. What did they think of their testing center?