As students prepare for their academic futures, mastering standardized tests is crucial. Whether aiming for college admissions or professional advancements, tests like the SAT, ACT, GRE, GMAT, LSAT, MCAT, TOEFL, and others play a pivotal role. The landscape is ever-evolving, especially for 2025, when formats, strategies, and expectations shift to cater to a more digital-savvy generation.
This comprehensive guide will explore 2025’s exam schedules, registration deadlines, essential pre-mock tests, and strategies to help students sharpen their skills and gain the confidence needed to master their chosen pathways.
Understanding the 2025 Exam Landscape
Exam Schedules and Formats
Understanding the format and schedules for each exam is foundational to effective preparation. Below is a summary of significant standardized tests in 2025:
| Exam | Date | Duration | Format |
|---|---|---|---|
| SAT | March 1, May 3, June 7 | 3 hours | Digital (Adaptive format from 2024) |
| ACT | February 8, April 12, June 14 | 2 hours 55 minutes | Paper & Digital |
| GRE | Multiple dates throughout the year | 3 hours 45 minutes | Digital (Adaptive) |
| GMAT | Year-round | 3 hours 30 minutes | Computer Adaptive |
| LSAT | January 15, March 13, June 12 | 3 hours | Digital |
| MCAT | January 2-28, March 5-25 | 7 hours 30 minutes | Traditional (Paper-Based) |
| TOEFL | Year-round | 3 hours | Digital |
| IELTS | Year-round | 2 hours 45 minutes | Paper & Digital |
| AP Exams | May 6-17 | Varies by subject | Paper & Digital |
| JEE Main/Advanced | April 15, May 27 | 3 hours | Computer-Based |
| PTE | Year-round | 3 hours | Digital |
| CAASPP (California) | March 25 – May 10 | Varies | Computer-Based |
| Regents Exams (NY) | January 23, June 14 | 3 hours | Paper-Based |
Sources: College Board, ETS, AAMC, LSAC, NTA, state education boards.
Key Updates for 2025 Exams
SAT
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- Digital Transition: The SAT has shifted to a digital format that allows for real-time data analytics and adaptive learning.
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- Shortened Duration: The test duration has been reduced to three hours, enhancing the experience for students.
GRE
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- Adaptive Testing: The GRE has implemented adaptive questions, altering their difficulty based on previous answers, promoting a more personalized testing experience.
MCAT
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- Content Revision: The MCAT has revised sections to better assess competencies in areas that are becoming more integral in the medical field, such as critical analysis and reasoning skills.
ACT
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- Digital Format: The ACT is transitioning into more digital options to cater to testing accessibility and data-driven insights for schools.
Researchings from authoritative platforms indicate a shift in testing norms aimed at enhancing accessibility and ensuring fairness in assessments.
Essential Pre-Mock Tests for Effective Preparation
Mock tests are invaluable for familiarizing students with question formats, timing, and pressure management. Below is a compilation of sample questions aligned with high-weightage topics for each exam.
1. SAT Sample Questions
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- Algebra: If 3x + 2 = 11, what is the value of x?
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- Answer: x = 3
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- Algebra: If 3x + 2 = 11, what is the value of x?
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- Reading Comprehension: What is the main idea of the passage?
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- Answer: The passage discusses the impact of technology on education.
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- Reading Comprehension: What is the main idea of the passage?
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- Writing and Language: Choose the best transition word in the sentence: “The project was delayed; ___, the team worked overtime.”
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- Answer: “therefore”
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- Writing and Language: Choose the best transition word in the sentence: “The project was delayed; ___, the team worked overtime.”
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- Geometry: What is the area of a triangle with a base of 10 and height of 5?
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- Answer: Area = 25
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- Geometry: What is the area of a triangle with a base of 10 and height of 5?
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- Statistics: In a dataset of 1, 2, 4, 4, and 5, what is the median?
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- Answer: Median = 4
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- Statistics: In a dataset of 1, 2, 4, 4, and 5, what is the median?
2. ACT Sample Questions
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- Math: What is the value of x if 5(x – 2) = 15?
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- Answer: x = 5
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- Math: What is the value of x if 5(x – 2) = 15?
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- Reading: What can be inferred from the last paragraph?
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- Answer: It highlights the author’s perspective on future policies.
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- Reading: What can be inferred from the last paragraph?
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- Science Reasoning: Based on the table, which compound has the highest boiling point?
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- Answer: Compound C
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- Science Reasoning: Based on the table, which compound has the highest boiling point?
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- English: Identify the error: “Each of the students have their own books.”
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- Answer: “has” should replace “have.”
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- English: Identify the error: “Each of the students have their own books.”
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- Writing: Rewrite the sentence for clarity: “Despite of the obstacles, they succeeded.”
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- Answer: “Despite the obstacles, they succeeded.”
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- Writing: Rewrite the sentence for clarity: “Despite of the obstacles, they succeeded.”
3. GRE Sample Questions
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- Quantitative: If the perimeter of a square is 24, what is its area?
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- Answer: Area = 36
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- Quantitative: If the perimeter of a square is 24, what is its area?
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- Verbal: Antonym for “pious”?
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- Answer: “impious”
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- Verbal: Antonym for “pious”?
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- Analytical Writing: Discuss the impact of social media on youth today.
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- Answer: Analyzed impact into various segments.
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- Analytical Writing: Discuss the impact of social media on youth today.
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- Data Interpretation: Based on the graph provided, what is the percentage increase from year 1 to year 2?
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- Answer: 20% increase.
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- Data Interpretation: Based on the graph provided, what is the percentage increase from year 1 to year 2?
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- Logical Reasoning: If all roses are flowers, and some flowers fade quickly, do some roses fade quickly?
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- Answer: Yes, logically valid.
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- Logical Reasoning: If all roses are flowers, and some flowers fade quickly, do some roses fade quickly?
4. GMAT Sample Questions
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- Quantitative Problem-Solving: If x + y = 10 and y = 4, what is x?
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- Answer: x = 6
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- Quantitative Problem-Solving: If x + y = 10 and y = 4, what is x?
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- Critical Reasoning: Which of the following weakens the argument?
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- Answer: Evidence suggests alternative reasons for the result.
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- Critical Reasoning: Which of the following weakens the argument?
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- Integrated Reasoning: Based on the data provided, what is the expected growth rate?
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- Answer: 15%
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- Integrated Reasoning: Based on the data provided, what is the expected growth rate?
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- Reading Comprehension: What assumption is made in the argument?
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- Answer: Assumes current trends will continue.
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- Reading Comprehension: What assumption is made in the argument?
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- Sentence Correction: Identify the corrected version: “Every student must turn in their assignments.”
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- Answer: “Every student must turn in his or her assignment.”
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- Sentence Correction: Identify the corrected version: “Every student must turn in their assignments.”
5. MCAT Sample Questions
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- Biology: What is the main function of mitochondria?
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- Answer: ATP production.
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- Biology: What is the main function of mitochondria?
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- Chemistry: Identify the product of this reaction: A + B → ?
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- Answer: Compound C.
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- Chemistry: Identify the product of this reaction: A + B → ?
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- Physics: What is the formula for kinetic energy?
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- Answer: KE = 1/2 mv².
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- Physics: What is the formula for kinetic energy?
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- Psychology/Sociology: Describe how classical conditioning works.
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- Answer: Pair stimulus with response.
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- Psychology/Sociology: Describe how classical conditioning works.
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- Critical Analysis: Assess the argument presented in the study.
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- Answer: Identified bias in methodology.
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- Critical Analysis: Assess the argument presented in the study.
Preparing with Authentic Experiences
Student anecdotes provide insight into the preparation struggles and triumphs encountered while preparing for these exams.
Examples from Student Experiences
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- Reddit User “StudyNinja230”: Shared how creating a study schedule helped balance school and study, stating, “I broke down my subjects into weekly goals and utilized weekends for practice tests. This routine kept my stress levels manageable.”
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- Forum Contributor “FuturePhysician94”: Discussed test anxiety, emphasizing, “Mock tests helped me familiarize myself with the pressure. I learned to manage my time better, leading to my best score on the MCAT.”
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- College Board Forum Participant “GrammarGuru99”: Mentioned the importance of understanding question formats, “Knowing what to expect in the SAT eased my mind. I practiced with official SAT tests, which mirrored the real deal.”
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- Educational Site Contributor “ACTExplorer”: Highlighted the importance of community, “Forming a study group provided moral support and accountability. We shared resources and kept each other motivated.”
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- Reddit Walker “LawDreamer”: Discussed preparation for the LSAT, stating, “Lexicon strategies and practice tests helped immensely. I set specific daily targets to cover critical reasoning and logic games.”
Evaluating Mock Test Platforms
Choosing the right mock test platform can heavily influence exam preparation effectiveness. Below are evaluated options based on reviews from platforms like Google Reviews and Trustpilot.
| Platform | Features | Pricing | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Khan Academy | Free resources, personalized study plans | Free | 4.9/5 |
| Magoosh | Video lessons, practice questions | $79/month | 4.8/5 |
| Testbook | Comprehensive mock tests, analytics | $30/month | 4.5/5 |
| Embibe | AI-driven insights, performance tracking | Free | 4.7/5 |
| Cracku | Extensive question bank, subject-wise tests | $50/month | 4.6/5 |
Reviews highlight:
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- Khan Academy: Praised for accessibility and effectiveness.
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- Magoosh: Commended for quality instructional videos.
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- Testbook: Valued for competitive pricing.
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- Embibe: Noted for personalized insights and detailed analytics.
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- Cracku: Highlighted for diverse question types and thorough coverage.
Evidence-Based Preparation Strategies
To effectively prepare for standardized tests, integrating evidence-based strategies into the study regimen is paramount. Here are key strategies:
1. Active Recall
This technique involves retrieving information from memory, rather than simply reviewing materials. Utilizing flashcards or quizzing oneself can enhance memory retention significantly.
2. Spaced Repetition
Distributing study sessions over time allows for better long-term retention of information. Tools like Anki or other spaced repetition software can help manage this technique effectively.
3. Time Management
The ability to manage study sessions efficiently can lead to better preparedness. Students should prioritize subjects and topics based on individual strengths and weaknesses.
Weekly Study Schedule Example
| Day | Activity | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Monday | SAT practice test | 3 hours |
| Tuesday | Review SAT math concepts | 1 hour |
| Wednesday | Verbal/Reading comprehension | 2 hours |
| Thursday | GRE practice questions | 1.5 hours |
| Friday | MCAT biology review | 1 hour |
| Saturday | Full-length ACT mock test | 3 hours |
| Sunday | Review week’s material | 2 hours |
Recommended Preparation Resources
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- Official SAT Study Guide: Comprehensive prep resource from the College Board.
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- AAMC MCAT Prep: Tailored materials developed by the AAMC focusing on key MCAT competencies.
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- Kaplan/Princeton Review: Renowned test prep courses offering live and on-demand classes across various subjects.
FAQ Section
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- What is the registration process for these exams?
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- Each exam has its own registration portal. Generally, students need to create an account and follow instructions for registration.
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- What is the registration process for these exams?
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- What are the retake policies for standardized tests?
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- Policies vary by exam; most allow multiple retakes. Check the specific guidelines on your exam’s official website.
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- What are the retake policies for standardized tests?
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- How long are scores valid?
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- Most scores are valid for 5 years, but this can vary by institution and exam.
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- How long are scores valid?
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- Can I switch between digital and paper formats?
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- Some exams allow this flexibility; check with the official exam guidelines for specifics.
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- Can I switch between digital and paper formats?
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- Are testing accommodations available?
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- Yes, students with disabilities may request accommodations; this must be arranged ahead of time per the exam’s guidelines.
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- Are testing accommodations available?
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- What if I can’t find a test center nearby?
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- Consider digital alternatives or reach out to the exam board for additional assistance.
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- What if I can’t find a test center nearby?
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- How do I access my scores?
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- Scores are usually available in the registration portal several weeks after the exam date.
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- How do I access my scores?
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- What happens if I miss the registration deadline?
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- Late registration may be available, but with additional fees. Check the exam’s official site for detailed deadlines.
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- What happens if I miss the registration deadline?
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- How can I find study groups or peers for prep?
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- Many educational forums, local Facebook groups, and school resources facilitate study group formations.
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- How can I find study groups or peers for prep?
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- Can I use calculators on all sections of the exams?
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- Specific guidelines on calculator usage can be found in the test policies; for example, SAT allows it in the math section only.
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- Can I use calculators on all sections of the exams?
Conclusion
Mastering the SAT and similar standardized tests for 2025 requires a multifaceted approach, integrating consistent practice, understanding the format and expectations, and leveraging relevant resources. This guide serves as a roadmap for students, graduates, and professionals aiming for academic and career success.
Key Takeaways:
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- Know the exam schedules and formats for effective planning.
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- Utilize high-quality mock tests to assess readiness.
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- Implement evidence-based strategies like active recall and spaced repetition.
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- Stay organized with a solid weekly study schedule.
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- Engage with peers and platforms for support and resource sharing.
Call to Action
Explore the official websites for registration and detailed insights: College Board, ETS, AAMC, LSAC, and various test-specific platforms. Embrace the challenge ahead, stay focused, and remember: preparation today leads to success tomorrow! Your future is waiting!