[nabs-l] GRE prep

[Jim Reed]

Hey all, 
 I dont know what accesable materials are out there, but I do know that many testing centers and universities host GRE prep classes (they are expensive). Additionally, when you sign up for the test, GRE does (or at least used to) send a free CR ROM prep program.

But having taken the GRE and attempted to study for it, I can say that based on my experience, it is a monumental task to think you can study/prep for it enough to dramaticly increase your score. For example, within the vocabulary section of my GRE prep book, there is a list of 200 or so words, and I had never even heard of 175 of them, let alone know what they mean. 

What I would encourage you to do is take an online practice exam, review your score, then make your prep plans according to your satisfaction with that score.

BTW, if you need accomidations for the GRE, you MUST NOT use the standard GRE sign up process. There is a special sign up process for those needing accomidations (sorry, I don't remember the exact proces. My memory is foggy on this issue, but it seems like folks needing accomidations need to call to sign up for an accessable test, and they must provide proof of their disability). I did not realize this when I signed up, and it lead to all sorts of problems including 1) almost not being able to take the exam AND not getting my money refunded. 2) The GRE temporaraliy lost my scores. 

Lastly, the GRE has switched almost exclusivly to computer-based test formats, although in special situations paper formats can be avaliable. You need to find out if a Braille version is avaliable, then you need to decide if it would be to your advantage to take the Braille or the computer version. Also, if you take the computer version, dont plan on being able to use JAWS, ZoomText, or any other accesability software. At my testing center, the test computer had NOTHING on it, and there was NO WAY to install any accessability software (the CD drive was bolted shut). Other than being able to manually turn the computer on and off, the testing center has no control of the computer; the computer is EXCLUSIVLY controled by GRE. Also, you are not allowed to take ANYTHING into the testing room that was not preapproved by GRE; not your wallet, and in my case, not even a magnifying glass.

Good luck, and I hope this helps
Jim

"Ignorance killed the cat; curiosity was framed."