GRE Subject Tests- Study Difficulty

[zeroglory]

For anyone who has studied for any of the GRE Subject tests, how long did you study and how difficult was the test compared to a CLEP?

I know it varies depending on the person, experience, which subject taken, etc, just trying to get a general idea of the timeframe and study methods you used.

[jadechow]

Taking the GRE subject exams has really intrigued me as a less expensive way to get some upper level credits at EC.

I am surprised that more people don't take advantage of this opportunity or, if they do, there just does not seem to be that much discussion about it on the forum.

I mean, I know that you have to score at a certain percentile to get credit and that the number (and distribution between UL and LL) of credits can vary, but it really seems like a viable option.

So, anyone who has info on this option, I'd love to hear it as well. Thanks for all your help!

[gcalvin]

I passed the GRE Psychology with a 750 -- enough for 30 credits and fulfilling the major requirements at Excelsior. Amazon.com: Cracking the GRE Psychology Subject Test, 7th Edition: Princeton Review: Books is perfectly on point. I also used Amazon.com: Psychology (College Review Series): Don Baucum: Books. It's paper-and-pencil, and I didn't have a lot of extra time, but I didn't feel rushed either. It was harder than a CLEP, but nowhere near five times as hard (for five times the credit of a six-credit CLEP). I took the exam in early April, and had my score by the end of May. Hope that helps!

-Gary-

[jadechow]

That helps a lot. I am consistently surprised that more of us on the forum aren't taking advantage of this option.

Did you have a previous background in Psychology? I mean, you didn't just start cold, study and pass the GRE did you? Because for me in Psychology that would just about have to happen. How much prep/study time did you allow yourself? Thanks, again for the information, Gary.

Now, English Literature I may have a fighting chance at - but only because I love to read and have devoured many of the classics for fun.

[gcalvin]

How cold is cold? I didn't have any real background in psychology, but I have read many books and articles peripheral to the subject in the last 35 years or so. I had some general knowledge and interest, but if you had asked me to list subjects I was interested in before I started taking exams, psychology would not have made the top ten. So I guess I didn't start "cold" but no more than lukewarm anyway.

-Gary-

[jadechow]

How cold is cold? So I guess I didn't start "cold" but no more than lukewarm anyway.

Well now, Gary, I live in Minnesota so cold is CCCCCCooooold! But not right now. Now it's 94 degress. And, no, I am not refering to some pathetic Boy Band!!hilarious

[zeroglory]

Sounds good. Seems like the GRE is a great route to take.

[jadechow]

If you did decide to go this route, which subject are you leaning toward?

[Blitzstudie]

I am going to take this in October...I purchased used texts for the various subjects but this is overkill. From the study guide reviews most people seem to use either 1 or 2 study guides and an introductory textbook. I plan to use those AND I am going to hit the IC flashcards for ALL the psych classes offered. If you look at the Cracking book they break down the percent of test and just a couple subjects,covered by IC if I recall make up like 60%.