This prometric is a joke!!! The center is nice in design however the customer service is the worst. They mix children with adults taking standardized exams. The kids were loud and cause disruption while still waiting outside. They let people in while chewing gum and making so much chewing noise. I complained about this and my concern was met with a cold shoulder. The lady at the desk did not even take it serious and just smiled in a creepy way every time I brought it up. They take forever to get people to be checked in and out. If you are taking a test and is on a scheduled break, this center is a disaster and they will waste your exam time chatting and laughing with the kids while checking them in. I waited more than 40 mins to check in when it takes simply no more than 10 mins at every prometric I've been to. They had 3 employees and none gave a damn about the 10+ people waiting in line. Do not trust them to take your exams here. The manager clearly just wants money and crams a large number of people including kids inside. On top of it, their headphones are very cheap in quality and doesn't even go over the ear. There is no noise cancellation in them. While I was listening to audio during the test I could hear all the noise outside which caused me a major distraction. Everyone here is so lazy and walks slower than a sloth and doesn't appreciate or understand the seriousness of exams. Do not take your exams here. Someone needs to close this branch or make changes to the useless apathetic staff working here. read more

Prometric Test Center - Adult Education Near Me - San Diego, California

TLDR: Extremely disappointing experience. I encountered repeated ableist and disrespectful behavior from staff, including being pressured into using disability accommodations I didn't ask for. On a separate visit, another staff member refused to scan me in until a fellow test-taker intervened. Staff also speak loudly enough to be heard from inside the testing rooms, and I've seen multiple people wait far past their scheduled test time due to disorganized check-ins. A few staff were kind, but overall, this location lacks professionalism, respect, and basic courtesy, especially toward people with disabilities. Sharing my experience both as a person with a disability and as a general test taker. First, I want to address the disability aspect. The only reason I used testing accommodations for my most recent exam was because I felt pressured into doing so--not because I personally wanted or needed them. During a prior visit, a staff member treated me with a complete lack of sensitivity and basic respect. She loudly and rudely told me to sign up for accommodations in front of others, as though it were a directive rather than a personal right. Her tone was dismissive and patronizing and she spoke in a way that implied accommodations would simply make things "easier" for the staff rather than for me. It's completely inappropriate to make assumptions based on someone's visible disability, and even more unacceptable to express those assumptions in a public and demeaning way. On the day I returned for my exam with accommodations, another woman on staff was so blatantly ableist that another test-taker actually had to intervene. She initially refused to scan me in for the exam and was only prompted to act when another test-taker, who witnessed what was happening, called her out and strongly insisted that she treat me fairly. Fortunately, the rest of the staff I interacted with were kind, respectful, and professional. Beyond that, there are general concerns with the center's environment and operations. The staff often speak loudly, so loudly that their voices can clearly be heard from inside the testing rooms, which is distracting for test-takers who are trying to focus. Additionally, although I haven't personally experienced this, I've witnessed multiple people waiting a long time, sometimes excessively long, to be checked in. That level of inefficiency adds unnecessary stress to what is already a high-pressure experience. read more

Came here to complete an exam. Super friendly staff. The air conditioning didn't kick on until an hour into my test and it got stuffy in there. Overall super clean environment with no strong odors/smells. read more

Would suggest having a better system for keeping track of who is in line first, and possibly having more staff at times when a lot of people are scheduled to start their exams. When I walked in at 8:40 for my 9 am exam, there were 6-7 people that already spoke with the front desk and were waiting to be checked in and seated for their 9 am exams, then 3 people behind me in line before someone came to the front desk. Then, when calling the next person to be checked in for their exam, one of the people from behind me in line cut the 7-8 of us that were there first. They had no system of keeping track of who was there first, and would just say "next" and the rest of us tried to be respectful and remember who was there first. It was a bit disorganized and I did not get seated until probably after 9:30am. Also, my computer stalled 6 times during my exam which felt stressful, but the staff member that was roaming the room saw and let me know to tell him if it ever stopped and they would restart the computer and was reassuring that my exam would still be saved. Otherwise, the temperature was nice and the headphone provided blocked out the noise very well. read more

Checked in at 8:15am for a 9am exam and was not seated until 9:45am. Unapologetic for a very expensive exam I spent a year preparing for. The delay left me scrambling to get childcare backup and feeling totally stressed and tired before I even started the exam. The delay was due to one check-in clerk and she wanted to wait until everyone taking the same physical therapy exam had arrived because their process was different. She had 10 people skip me in line although they had arrived even an hour after I had. When the governing body of the my exam inquired into the delay the center said it was because stations were full of test-takers not finished yet, but this was untrue because I arrived when they opened. There were two other staff members present but neither of them jumped in to seat those of us stuck in a very big group of people waiting. We pay for this center to accommodate us graciously and it was unbelievable to be ignored by staff. read more

I wanted to make a post to put others at ease. When I first read the reviews on here I was worried that I would have a bad experience so I was hesitant on scheduling my medical board exam. Nevertheless I took my exam here and had a good experience overall. The building itself is really nice with a waterfall courtyard that helps take the edge of your test anxiety. The exam room set up is probably one of the better. My one gripe is that this place is understaffed so longer wait times. Other than that, go take your exam with confidence at this test center - you'll have a good experience. Oh and also bring your own ear plugs! read more

TL;DR I passed. When you turn onto the street, just look for the signage a couple of buildings down the left, which can be easily missed from the generic commercial structures on either side. Depending on the day, parking is hit or miss. There is a private lot down the driveway if you can't find a curbside spot. Checking in was a breeze and the lobby was empty. Just remember to bring two forms of photo ID with your signature because they will have you sign in and will verify it matches. There are small/medium lockers available, so empty your pockets, and leave the carry on luggage behind. I was able to get started a few minutes before my afternoon appointment and finish soon enough before traffic along I-805 and Hwy-52 went from bad to ugly. The testing room is reasonably quiet, with the thermostat set in the low 70s. They provide both noice cancelling headphones and foam earplugs (upon request), along with materials to write scratch notes. Depending on what exam your sitting for, the proctor will confirm locker accessibility and available breaks. The proctor will do the usual security checks for cheat sheets or other shenanigans. Bathrooms are towards the fountain area. I don't particularly enjoy the stress of cramming a week's worth of study material across two days, but Prometric Testing Center provides a decent exam environment to help you stay focused. read more

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So I've come here a few times for my certification exams and this was the only location in San Diego that offered it. Of course I was nervous before each exam but the staff didn't make the process any harder than it needed to be. Everyone was friendly, and check in went pretty smoothly. It was really easy to find, and parking is directly next to the building. They provide lockers for you to put your stuff in, and restrooms are just around the corner. I've come in about 30 minutes early and they were still able to seat me and get me started on the exam before my scheduled time. But, I've also had to wait in the lobby all the way until my assigned time, so I guess it really just depends on the exam you're taking. You do need to have your phone turned off and in the locker before you go in to take your exam, and they use metal detectors to check if you have any recording devices on you. You need to have jewelry taken off, as well as any hair accessories, even hair ties around your wrist. I just didn't even bother wearing any of those before I arrived. Before you go into your exam room they also make you sign in and write down the time and they go over everything that you may do for your exam, like using scratch paper or going on breaks. They also supply ear plugs for you, which helped a lot. It may not block out louder noises, but it blocked out enough for me to concentrate. There are 3 exam rooms, and each room has about 20 computers, with tall dividers on each side of the computer. They have security cameras above each computer, and the person at the desk outside each room can see everyone in that room. It's pretty intense, but I know it's for a good reason. Taking an exam can be nerve wracking but Prometrics made it much easier to relax and provide a calm testing environment. If for some reason I ever have to take another exam then I'll be choosing this testing center! read more

Easy to find location, testing room was clean, quiet and spacious, locker and bathroom facilities were clean and nearby. Staff was OK, the one who administered my test was not familiar with my test's instructions. read more

I would think twice about going to this test center. It's extremely busy, takes a long time to check in, the staff is not very helpful, and the person I spoke with to ask questions didnt even understand English. If you have a scheduled break good luck. People are going in and out of the testing rooms constantly and there was frequent distracting noise during the mock exam I was taking. Given the time and expense I've invested preparing for this exam this is very disconcerting. read more

Had a Monday morning 8am appointment for the GRE. Below are some (possibly too many) tips and facts for you. Hopefully some of them can help with calming your nerves a bit! - Come early! Even at 7:30am on a Monday morning, there were many (over 10) people in check-in room already, already taking tests and checking in. Waiting to get checked in took 5-10 minutes. The test center's official hours indicates that they open at 7:30am, but I think they open even earlier than that because when I arrived before 7:30am, there were already many people inside. So don't worry about coming too early- no such thing. They will offer to seat you whenever your turn comes up, even if it's before your official appointment time. - Park on the street if you can. The test center calls you a couple days before your test to remind you about your appointment, and they tell you to only park on the last 2 rows inside the parking lot. I don't even know what the last 2 rows means, I feel like it could be interpreted differently, so I just parked on the street. - Wear layers! The building wasn't that cold that day, it was actually a pleasant temperature. BUT that's with me wearing four layers (I get cold easily). - Your 10-minute break is more like 5-8-minute break! Once you start your break timer on your computer and leave the room, you have to sign out with the proctor. Upon re-entering the room, you have to sign in and get searched all over again. This takes several minutes, so take these processes into account. 4 layers of clothing meant more time spent checking my pockets & jacket hoods LOL. - Soundproof headphones are provided inside the test rooms. Foam ear plugs were offered to me by the proctor prior to me entering, which I accepted. I ended up not trying out the ear plugs, because I didn't want to waste time stuffing/restuffing them in. The headphones were sound proof enough. You can hear faint shuffling and typing, but the headphones gave me the feeling of being more secluded and helped a lot. They are kind of uncomfortable, but well worth it. - (For the GRE specifically): 2 pencils and 1 scratch paper are provided. The scratch paper is basically around as much space as you would get for 2 double-sided letter-sized papers. If you need more, you can raise your hand and the proctor will come in with a new one for you. After my 10-minute break, my proctor voluntarily asked if I wanted a new sheet, which was super nice because I had totally forgot I needed a new one. - Don't bring your backpack! Most of the lockers are small squares and won't be able to fit it. It'll fit a couple of water bottles and some snacks. You're allowed to place your phones in the lockers, but since you are not allowed to look at your phone during breaks, I recommend just leaving it in your car, just in case somebody thinks you're sneaking a peak at your phone when you're just grabbing a snack. - The bathroom is outside of the testing center, maybe 30 seconds of a walk away. USE IT before the test & during your break. You don't want to waste actual test time to go to the bathroom, even if the bathroom is close, because signing out/in and getting re-searched takes too long. - In general, keep in mind that everybody is there to take a different test. People are coming in & out constantly and are on an entirely different timeline as you, so don't let their working pace affect you. Good luck! You got this! read more

Easy to find place off the freeway, parking is right there, but limited because a small business shares the parking lot so make sure you park in the correct place and not in the permit only areas. The place is the first door to your right from the parking lot entrance. Check in was easy, they ask for your ID. You're given a key to your locker to put everything away, including your keys. Don't bring anything, not even a pen of your own. They'll provide you the scrap paper and pencils. I'm not sure why I had to be there a half hour early just to sit around and wait. Then you're signed in, checked with a metal detector, told to empty your pockets, sleeves and pants and then you're put into this room with cubicles and computers. The "noise-cancelling" headphones do nothing. You can hear every cough, every nose-blowing, every time someone slams the door, every time someone comes in and out, every time someone types like their lives depended on it and every time someone talks to themselves. It's very annoying! Then the room gets rather cold after 3 hours, the AC blows right on you and it gets colder and colder to the point where I wished I had worn a thicker sweater. read more

The microphone headset didn't have noise cancellation. Lots of examinees had TOEFL and could hear them reading their passage, speaking section. Would be better if they upgrade. read more

I hate testing. Everyone does. But coming here was a good experience and Is very pleasant. There is plenty of parking. I came for a test in the middle of the day. There was no wait. I did not feel like I had to be there 30 minutes early to take my test. The bathroom is close by. They have a nice relaxing fountain in the middle of the plaza that put you at ease. I did not see any place where you can get food. They have water inside and little shot cups. The testing center had computers that were up-to-date and there was plenty of space. Everyone in the test center seemed relatively relaxed read more

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I have had very positive experience with them, having taken 3 separate exams over the course of half a year here in 2018, and passed (I call it my lucky place!). Tip: I noticed, as of Sept 2018, you are limited to parking only in the last two rows of the parking lot. It wasn't until you go in the center that I see signs about it. That might add some stress, having to re-park your car, when you just want to prep yourself mentally for your test. 2nd Tip: I learned that if I go early.. even 45 min before my appointment, they would just take me in with no problem. The center never seemed busy or overbooked to me. I had always booked Friday or Saturday also. Customer Service: On my visits, all staffs were nice, professional, and courteous to me. Setting: Lockers are provided. Water cooler with dixie cups also. The testing rooms are set up to have maybe 20 computers, with security checks, and treat like a quiet room. Granted my tests were 2-2.5 hours each, so I never had to go on breaks. Location: Quite nice. In a business building area, close to freeway. But like I mentioned, the parking lot situation has just gone less ideal. read more

The team here is so accommodative. They treat you with a lot of respect and have a really smooth process of checking people in. You can tell that they understand that the exam you're taking could be a big part of your life and they are willing to do their part in treating you well. I highly recommend this testing center for anyone that is looking for the good vibes before the test, in addition to a clean, respectful testing center. read more

Took the GRE here yesterday. I was about 5 minutes into my third Quant exam (I was given two Verbal and three Quants). when I ran out of scratch paper. I put my hand up ... and ... nothing. I waited well over two minutes, possibly three, before the proctor sauntered in to ask what I needed. For Quant, you have 35 minutes to do 20 math problems. Having to sit quietly with your hand in the air for nearly THREE MINUTES means a lot of lost points, not to mention breaking your concentration and your rhythm. After checking test-takers into the room, a proctor's only job is to watch the monitors. WHERE THE HELL WAS HE ???? I have to re-take the exam in December now. I'm seriously thinking of suing this place. read more

I mean no one likes to take a test so minus 1 for that. I don't have much to complain about. They will ask you to leave you phone in the car, I didn't and I lied to them and said I did but I made sure and turned it off. So they don't go through the stuff you put in the lockers. You can't bring anything of your own into the testing room. The also magic metal detector wand you. LOL, which I don't get, maybe looking for electronic feeds to your brain or something. Maybe they think people are sneaking in bombs or guns or homemade shivs? Not quite TSA but just a silly. I want to know why specifically metal items are what people cheat with instead of, I don't know... paper? In my day, which wasn't that long ago, with cheated with with dignity on paper! And you can't park in the front. I don't know why, I came on a weekday and they asked me if I parked in the front. I said "no." But I did! I did do it! I lied. LOL I know what you are thinking, this Trish, she is one bad ass mother fucker. And you are right, I am bad ass! Like I said I took the test on a Monday and the place was dead. FYI, you can use a credit card as a second form of ID but not your social security card.... I don't know, I don't get it either. I can get a credit card in my dogs name and a social security card is at least a government document. I mean I can get a job with it, and everything, heck I can even get a driver's license with it!! I could probably get a dead person's social security card if I posed as a janitor in a mortuary but I'm really not that motivated. Point is neither one has your picture on it. This is just what I overheard, they turned someone away. Costco card? IDK. I took my test on a Monday and the place was pretty dead. Headphones nice but I don't want to use community head wear. I just don't. Proctor coming in and out was a little annoying, can't they just put a video camera on you the whole time. It's one of the few testing centers so, you gotta do what you gotta do! read more

I'm not sure where all the negativity from previous reviewers is originating from, because I didn't have the same experience. It was actually pretty decent. Check in: I arrived 30 minutes early. You walk up to the receptionist, who's nice and professional, and tells me to sign a form. After that you wait maybe 10 minutes and then they call you up saying they're ready for you. Right before the test: The staff will confirm your personal information and review how the test will go (ie how much time you have, what do to for breaks, if you have any questions...). They'll ask to empty your pockets and stuff and check for any electronic devices or something, and then it's time to take the test. The test center: My room was pretty quiet with one slight disruption, where two people were being childish and clearing their throats and gigging. But this only happened twice and it wasn't obnoxiously loud, just noticeable. The keyboard is slightly greasy, but that's to be expected. Otherwise the area is clean. You're provided with huge headphones to cancel out the noise. I took them off after 1.5 hours because it started to get uncomfortable and it was quiet enough for me to not have them on. The chair was fine. The monitor is old and so expect some eye strain. I did get a bit cold, but only my hands when I was typing the essays. Breaks are straight forward. You do it yourself -- no one excuses you. You sign in and sign out, and then sign back in. Bathrooms are close by and those are pretty clean. There's a fountain outside too so it's a nice place to snack on something, stretch out your legs and recover before you continue on grinding. They also provide water with small cups. I didn't even drink out of my water bottle I brought with me (which you cannot bring with you). Some notes: 1) If you get there a bit early, you can possibly start early. I started 15 minutes earlier, so I got out earlier. 2) Leave your phone in your car. Just do it. 3) The lockers do have locks on them, so it's pretty safe. It's big enough, just don't bring a backpack. 4) The pencils are sharp, and the scratch paper is blue (so calming). 5) You're going to do well. Don't let the test center and its conditions distract you from doing well. Control what you can, and let go of the things you can't. It's possible that the negative reviews are from people who were just really stressed out and wanted everything to be perfect. Who knows. I hope I don't have to come back here. Not because of the place, but because of the test itself. Good luck! read more

So, you're taking the GRE soon. You've studied, practiced and repeated, and taken plenty of diagnostic tests. And you live somewhere near Clairemont (I'm a professional GRE tutor in PB and have always taken my tests at this location). This particular location in Claremont is pretty easy to get to. However, If you get a chance, then I would suggest that you drive by the test center in person, just to eliminate any unknowns or traffic variables. The GRE is primarily offered at Prometric test centers, which are all very similar. You should be aware that not everyone in the test center will be taking the GRE, however: Prometric offers a variety of computer tests at its locations. In most cases, this location offers the GRE on weekdays and Saturdays at either 8:30 am or 1 pm. I'm not exactly a morning person, so I tend to be in the 1 pm crowd, but it's all up to your personal preference. Pro tip: I've taken the GRE multiple times. One time, I arrived at Prometric and thought that I had forgotten my ID. The receptionist told me that even though my test start time was 1 pm, that I could start as late as 1:30. I can't promise that this will be the case with every test center, but it's comforting for those of you who are worried about making it to the center on time for any reason. Alternatively, you can arrive early for your test and start taking it before the scheduled start time. ETS recommends that you arrive 30 minutes early, but if you're ready to go after 5 minutes or so, then they will often let you begin early, since other test-takers will be there at the office taking tests all day long. I would recommend that you find the bathroom before the test begins, so that you don't waste any precious test time on restroom runs. Don't forget to bring an acceptable photo ID, since you will need it at the test center: no ID, no test. When you arrive, the receptionist will give you a locker key and ask you to empty your pockets into the locker. You will keep your ID in your pocket, however, as you will need it to check in and out of the test. I would still recommend bringing a water bottle, but of course you'll have to drink it before you put your stuff in your locker. Or, during your break you can come out, open your locker, and drink your water and/or eat whatever snack food you have brought. I recommend something high-calorie and easy to eat such as a Clif Bar. If you forget your water, don't worry: there is a water cooler there. Since ETS (the maker of the GRE) forbids using your cell phone during the test, I would recommend that you simply leave your phone in your car, to eliminate the chance of your using it accidentally and thus having your score cancelled. That would be tragic, and a bit waste of time and money. Some tips for the actual test: -The issue essay is an opinion piece. Consider the issue, take a side, then back it up using a variety of reasons, examples, and deep analysis. Write a lot, organize your thoughts well, and make sure to back up your claims with detailed examples. Be insightful, nuanced, complex and balanced. -The argument essay is your opportunity to be the CEO of your own corporation. In other words, you are the boss, and you are given a chance to evaluate the argument/presentation made by your employee. Instead of attacking the argument outright, make it clear that there is not yet enough information to make a clear decision (after all, this is your thesis every single time!). You might believe him, and you might not. But either way you will have to defend your positions and explain what extra information is needed, and how your decisions would depend on the results of that information. -Remember that the GRE is an adaptive test, which means that it adjusts its level of difficulty depending on your performance. However, the GRE used to be a severely adaptive test (it would change the difficulty level from question to question, putting a huge amount of importance on the first few questions of the test), to a more gently adaptive one. In other words, the GRE does not adapt question by question anymore; it simply adjusts the difficulty level of the second section, based on your performance on the first (non-experimental) section of that type. -Don't forget that the actual GRE contains an extra "experimental" section that doesn't count toward your score. It could be verbal, or it could be math, and you don't know what section it's going to be. So the real thing is going to feel a bit longer, and a bit less certain, than the Powerprep practice tests. to be continued in my update.... read more

Everyone was nice, and the testing environment was fairly comfortable. It was cold in the room with the AC, so I wore my jacket the whole time (if you get cold easily, definitely bring a jacket). I brought only my ID, earplugs (soft kind allowed only), water, and snack because I read in the reviews that phones were not allowed in the building. This is not true. I asked one of the attendants, and he said you can leave your phone turned off in the locker during testing, meaning you can have it with you before and after the entire test (you just can't use it during break). They have a bathroom outside right around the corner and I also saw a water cooler with paper cups in the lobby. Good luck with your test! read more

Just took a test thingy today and it wasn't that difficult to find, get parking and all. The lockers are about 14" x 14" so leave your crap in the car, take only the essentials. Had to leave my watch and fitbit bracelet in the locker. If you are taking a test for the first time you probably research techniques on line. Get comfy, wear long sleeve shirt so you can show off your guns for the cameras. The temperature fluctuated while I was there, cold in the beginning than warmer in the afternoon. Only problem that really bugged me was the ear muffs, my ears get hot when I hear over the ear headphones for too long. I dropped $550-ish for my test, I couldn't get some active noise canceling ones? The proximity to Miramar really gives you awesome jet engine noises. For the reviews that said it is like prison: you been in a prison before? I have, it ain't prison. More like an airport in the Middle East without the handsy security read more

It took about 30 minutes for me to check in before I got seated for my 8 hour exam. I'm not sure what everyone else is complaining about. This is my billionth time taking standardized exams. The place seemed standard, was relatively quiet, provided lockers, and had decent sound dampening headphones. I didn't have any technical problems with my computer station, equipment, or exam during my 8 hour Step 2. I'm not entirely sure what score to give since I've had positive experiences at almost every standardized computer exam center. If you study your material, know it well, and go through many practice questions, there's no reason to blame the test center's trivial distractions for your poor performance. It's a lot higher pressure to test, diagnose, and treat the patient live with a million things going on around you in the clinic/hospital, but everyone complains about the weirdest things at a test center. I don't get it. I consider myself borderline ADHD but I didn't have a problem throughout my exam from 8am to 5:30pm. read more

Compared to the SDSU testing location, Prometric is much better. Parking alone is hands down better at Prometric, with a big lot only steps from the office. The location at SDSU at Student Services is at least a 10 minute walk from the nearest parking lot (and I'm faculty with a good parking permit). The environment at Prometric was also better. The waiting room is nicer and larger, the one at SDSU is old and cramped. The staff at Prometric were nicer too. I felt much more relaxed, which led to me getting my target score!!! read more

They are looking after toefl organizers compensation. They might report you cheating for nothing and the ETS will believe them because they want your money. I am telling you choose any other center they are faking integrity. read more

Again, not sure where the bad reviews are coming from. I had a great experience at this testing center. Although, I went prepared and checked out the center prior to my test (which I highly recommend) it reduces the jitters day-of. Thought the staff might be irritated with that but they were very nice, helpful and even confirmed my appointment while I was there along with any questions I had. Day-of, the staff was very professional and accommodating within reason with what's allowed. I took the PMP exam (4hrs) so I made use of having a locker and put my snacks, water and chap stick on top of the locker (can't access your locker during). As others have said, leave your cell phone in the car and bring ID. The center itself is clean, parking is easy and there's a nice outside area with fountain for breaks (if you decided to take them). I am easily distracted and was worried about noise/distractions but didn't experience any. I brought my own ear plugs and they are very direct and professional about how people enter/leave the room which helped as people weren't hovering around. One tip: I had planned to take a break (leave the room) every 50 questions (200 total) but ended up only leaving once and taking two mini breaks at my station. When you leave you have to sign out/in, they check your pockets and metal detector, ID verification. It's not long and they're very conscious of time but for me, I didn't want to deal with that. In all - great experience in what is typically a stressful situation. read more

I just took the MCAT 2015 here last week, so we were suppose to arrive here 30 minutes before but I go there 45 minutes prior and it took them 45 minutes to check me in, probably since there was so many people taking the mcat. Regardless its a clean facility, good lockers to put your stuff in. The room temperature was set to a temperature, but it got a little warm so I took off my jacket which made it perfect. The test was 7 hrs and 30 minutes long besides signing in and out each time I enjoyed taking my breaks outside and the restroom had 3 stalls, I didn't have to wait for one during my breaks. The only complaint was they ran out of toilet papers but someone kindly from the mens bathroom grabbed some from their bathroom. I would take another test here again and recommend it to anyone else. read more

When i signed up for the GREs i had the option of either taking it here or at SDSU. Unwilling to go through the hassle of waking up any earlier on a saturday morning and drive down to the campus I opted to take the test here. It's located just off the 805 at Governor, most convenient for UCSD students. I left 15 minutes before my test and still had time to spare. Fortunately, I took my exam on saturday morning when the pilots at Miramar aren't doing test runs. The place was nice enough, otherwise. It was relatively quiet, save for the sound of the door opening and closing from the ritualistic entrance of the proctor. One other thing is that they can't seem to get the temperature right. It gets pretty stuffy in the room, but no worries because an arctic breeze flows through every so often whisking away the stale armpit odor. I suppose it's not such a bad thing though, it keeps you awake especially during those ridiculous quantitative comparison questions (just a tip, the answer is D-there's not enough information!). And lastly, the parking. You can't park in front of the building because they don't own the lot, so they make you move your car to either the back or you have to park along the street. This place is one of the nicer testing facilities i've been to, primarily because testing (of all sorts) is the only thing they do. My favorite part of the center is that they conveniently provided a locker for all my junk while i took the test, since the only thing i could take in was my ID. It was great--i didn't have to worry about anyone stealing my Cliff bar and Smart Water while i arduously worked through those damn analogies. read more

It's just like being in a dentist's office without the actual teeth part. Shades are drawn, strip mall waiting room decor with banal abstract paintings, little cups of water, outdated magazines. There's really no worse way to spend a hot sunny San Diego Saturday than locked up in here for 4 hours. The staff was nice, but this whole operation reeks of extortion in the name of education. $200 for the test, a complete cavity search (youtube the Spies Like Us Exam scene), and little cubicle test pods. I had forgotten how oppressive and stifling that environment can be, especially locked in a room with people belching, sniffing, humming, and reading the prompts under their breath. I was happy to leave; this was a one-time visit. read more

I have taken so many exams/continuing education here dating back to 1997 ..... the staff is helpful getting you situated with everything you need for your exam/ce. It is simple to get into and get out of, there are lockers for all of your personal devices. They no longer allow you to keep cellar phones in the lockers so you probably want to keep that locked up in your car. If you need to take an exam that is regulated/government related this is the only spot in San Diego, otherwise you have to go up to OC ! read more

I think a worker or two may have started recognizing me because I wore the same thing every time I came here: the most comfortable clothes with no make-up. On multiple occasions I was like a prisoner.. confined in the same spot for 4+ hours. No mercy. They like to play with your mind too.. as if you're not stressed out enough :). Sometimes the AC is blasting and other days it's a sauna. One time my computer froze and I thought I would have to reschedule. Another time my mouse was so greasy I could have probably used it as a WD40 substitute. Make sure you come here as early as your schedule allows you to (an hour might even work). On a busy day, you'll be lucky if you start your test on time. One time I waited for an hour and half. On a slow day, they will let you start your test earlier than scheduled and then you can leave that place as soon as possible! Last, make sure you leave your cell phone in your car. new rule. more rules. read more

Came here to take my step 1 exam and was so nervous about not being able to find parking spaces because the instructions were to come early since parking limited. The building is easy to find and located with a bunch of other business so I thought that having my exam on a Monday morning would mean a lot of workers filling up the spots. However to my surprise, there were plenty of parking available in the lot and on the street! The check in process was quick and painless, I was able to start my exam earlier than the start time since I arrived early. They had a sign up when u walk in letting u know where the testing site is. There's also a nice water fountain thing right outside with benches where I took my test breaks and a restroom nearby. They had a bunch of small lockers but also a couple big ones if you want to bring a backpack. Gum was allowed in this testing center if it was in ur mouth but you can't bring new packs in. I didn't end up chewing gum because I felt like it might be disruptive and there was no trashcan inside the testing rooms. Noise canceling headphones are provided although I used my own ear plugs because I hear the headphones provided are not comfortable. You are placed in a cubicle and a proctor comes in from time to time to check in on people. If you need scratch paper (they give you a laminated paper with white board marker) you just hold them up and they'll come right to you. They'll check you with a metal detector, ask u to flip your pockets inside out, pull your sleeves and pants up, and ask for fingerprint when you check in and on all the breaks. Staff was nice and overall a good testing experience :) read more

Worst experience ever, especially when people are already nervous about taking a test and paid a lot of money to go there. Jessica, the person who checked people in was rude, short and had no service skills. I went with my husband so he could take a test and was disturbed by the way she ordered people around. I took my IRS preparer test there 2 years ago and had a similar experience. Then, once my husband went into the room, she asked me to leave and to not be anywhere on the premises. When I told her that there is no sign the indicates that, she pulled out a paper my husband signed, which had nothing to do with me or the guests to try to show me what the person signs when they take a test. Really? If you have another option as a testing location, take it! read more

I highly doubt that you'll ever be shopping around for testing centers to fit all of your testing needs, but in the off chance that you are, Prometric is a decent location. More often than not you find yourself here because of some manner of professional testing, and finding here turns out to be a bit awkward. From what I've gathered, the main entrance is the side of the building, which usually has slim pickins on the parking front. If you do snag a spot, finding this center should be pretty easy. If you're relegated to the rear parking lot like I always seem to be, you find yourself hopelessly lost inside a perfectly nondescript square. When you inevitably find the center through trial and error, you will feel like you're on the set of Office Space. I don't necessarily fault Prometric for this, because it's a testing center and not the entrance to the Bellagio, but it's pretty bland. From there, everything else is fine; the staff is polite, the place does it's best job of eliminating distractions, and it also does a fairly decent job of keeping you awake. If you do find yourself in need of a bathroom, my best suggestion is the fountain in the middle, because if you have a hard time finding Prometric you'll have zero hope of finding the loo. read more

This place earned a star by the following: -employees were chomping down on cheetos and mountain dew and seem to distracted with eating and talking with colleagues to get people into their test. -Time management of putting customers into there test was horrendous. My appointment was at 1:30, I got there at 1:00pm as required and I didn't begin my test until 2pm because they don't know what there doing. -I heard talk from employees about how they were taking shots while working, not really a good place to be taking shots - There was many people here, I think it was just overbooked, it was just so crowded - I had a bottom level locker so I had to get on the floor literally to open and close my locker, pretty annoying. The place is big though and I guess that is nice, but because of my wait, and the unfocused nature of the employees I doubt I will be returning. read more

I recently moved to SD and had to take one part of my licensing exam here. Let me just say this place got me yelping again. This is a comprehensive review on the testing center and the building and area it is in. So as a good student, I came and checked out the building to test the route and see where my test would be so I would not be lost on test day. I came on a Sunday afternoon around 3:30PM. As soon as I turned into the parking lot, I see a middle aged hispanic man signaling me to "go away". As soon as I parked in the back (as to not get in his way), he walked around the building, top two buttons unbuttoned, and approached me to ask if he could help me. I told him no, I just wanted to check out the building and just get an idea of the environment I would be testing in. He was very hasty and told me he was the property manager and that the building was closed so basically get off his property. I kindly obliged as it wasn't a weekday and maybe SD just has people who really care about their real estate investment. Fast forward to Tuesday, the day of my test. I had a 15 minute scheduled break and decided to stand outside in front of a small fountain and stretch my legs after 2.5 hours of sitting to prep for another 2 more. Guess who shows up? Its Mr. Property Manager! I smiled at him because I recognized a familiar face. Guess what he says to me. "Did you read the instructions?" I thought he was being helpful and making sure I read the instructions on my test to get all the answers right....NOPE! Apparently there is a sign when you check in telling students to stay inside the testing center during breaks and to hurry to the bathroom and back. Basically saying students were a disturbance to the area. Excuse me?! Seriously?! Mr. Property Manager says he's had issues with the past and he LITERALLY walked me to the door of the testing center and opened it for me like I was a child. Hello! This is an ADULT Education center, not an elementary school. We're not students staying out past recess! Anyway, the testing center itself was very accommodating. I came from Orange County so I used the Lake Forest Prometric Center for the other parts of my licensing tests. Compared to LF, SD was about 30% bigger and more well lit with more windows. The proctors were helpful and nice. I had Gabriel be the guy outside my room (3 rooms total) and every time I would take a break, he would try and get the sign out sheet ready for me. Good job! For students who need every last minute, that is very thoughtful. For Prometric, please have a nice long chat with Mr. Property Manager as he does not make students feel welcome to this testing center. Again, we are adults who are trying to pass a test. Every student has this own way to get pumped up or make themselves feel ready to pass. Why do you need to shepherd us like kids? If other tenants are complaining, they they must not have hired people who went through certifications and licensing like us because otherwise they would understand how nerve racking testing can be. Instead of worrying about money, Prometric should be focused on their students. But, I guess if students fail, Prometric gets more money because the students would need to retake. Just food for thought. TL;DR - If you are good at getting in and out ASAP this testing center is for you. Nice accommodations and well lit center with helpful people. If you need to stretch or do jumping jacks during breaks after hours of sitting, do it in the parking lot. Watch out for Mr. Property Manager! No paper towels in the bathroom, use toilet paper for the handle. read more

During two of my CPA exams (on different days) my computer crashed in the middle of the simulations. The first time they moved me to a new computer with a sticky mouse that would get stuck to my finger with every click. Besides the computers that just can't handle the tests they provide, the rest of their equipment is pretty old and outdated as well. For example the monitors are tiny. Given that they are in the business of computerized exams, you would think they would have better technology, larger monitors, non sticky mice, and better air flow in the rooms. Also the sound proof headphones are not really sound proof. You can easily hear everything that goes on in the room including the chairs making noise, doors slamming, people typing, coughing, cussing, etc. I learned after my first exam that you can take in soft ear plugs with you. The room is filled with people positioned extremely closely together and the air smells really bad. Good luck. read more

I had to take GRE for grad school, and I could take it at two locations... SDSU or Prometric?? Trust me! Go to Prometric! Do not make the same mistake as I did. My experience at Prometric - Easy and free parking - You can take the test as you sign in and wait for your name (my test was at 12:30, but I ended up showing up early and took it around 12:15pm) - Bigger and more staff (who are actually nice) to help you - More organized - Have filtered water - Cleaner restrooms - Make sure to leave your cellphone in the car. They will make you drop it off at the car. My experience at SDSU - There was an event going on and finding parking was horrible (usually you have to pay for parking too) - You have to wait for your test time and then wait more to have your name called because there is only one staff who goes over the rules and signs you in to take the test - The lady at check-in is extremely rude and will try to get you by not giving you correct information right away - She also gets frustrated when there is more than two students waiting and freak out - Have fountain water outside (If you are bored, read my whole story below) I made a HUGE mistake by choosing SDSU for the first time. My test was at 12:30pm, and I showed up around 11:45am to check in... I recently got married but haven't changed my last name on my drivers license and passport yet. I signed up with my maiden name, but I made a mistake by not bringing my passport. I told the lady who checked me in my story, and she said I had to sign up with my new last name (why?), She told me to sit down first (oh, maybe I just need my drivers license...??). Time passed, and it was 12:30pm. I asked the lady... she told me I can't take the test. WTH??? I could go home and get my passport on time to take the test, if she didn't tell me to sit down. It was like as soon as she found out I didn't have something, instead of telling me what I need and trying to help, she just made me waste my time... By the way, when I asked her why she asked me to sit down, she rolled her eyes and said it wasn't her fault that I didn't have my passport. I told her I could have asked someone to drop it off. She said, "it is too late now but you can signed up again. Our center has a lot of openings this week." Um... I am not spending another $185 for her to mistreat students. I felt really humiliated. NO CUSTOMER SERVICE WHATSOEVER. DO NOT GO TO SDSU. I ended up filing an official complaint against the lady. I got my money back, but It was one of the most stressful day ever. Of course I went to Prometric to actually take the test. Parking and checking-in was a breeze (didn't even asked for my passport). I also noticed staff here are willing to work with students (when I was going to the restroom, I noticed there was a student who showed up late, they still let her take the test). Just make sure you are not TOO late. read more

Prometric was supposed to administer the IRS mandated Registered Tax Return Preparer Competency exam. Paid my money ($118), set up the appointment but a lawsuit stopped the IRS from requiring the exam (01/18/13). Prometric never notified me they would not be able to administer the exam nor did they refund my test fees. Sending emails to the company via their website go unanswered. It was near impossible to get a live person on the phone and all they tell you is to go on the website to make a "request" - once you fill out the online form a window pops up telling you if they feel you rate a refund they will make contact. I've been waiting well over a month for some sort of contact by this company - nothing to date... I'm the type of person who will get their money back from a company like this. I just wish they didn't have to make it so hard. read more

This place in University City is part of a nationwide chain of businesses where people go to take various examinations. Today, I was taking a re-certifying examination for my profession. This is something I have to do once every 8-10 years and is the subject of much chagrin amongst my colleagues. The exam is coordinated between the certifying board for my specialty and prometric, the company that administers it. Originally, I had to fly to Houston for the previous two exams but this was before the computerized the process. I must say that not having to travel out of town was a bit of a relief however, traveling from my house to the testing center in U City with the flow of traffic on a Friday at 830 in the morning was nerve wracking. I arrived, despite my best attempts, on time and parking my car in the front of an empty and spacious parking lot proceeded to check in. I had to give up any and all of my worldly posses ions which they placed in a locker. Then the lady asks if I parked in the back as the sign on the counter says. When I tell her I parked in front of the building, she makes me go and move my car to the back of the lot. Mind you, I've paid over $2000 for the pleasure of driving through traffic to sit in front of a computer all day answering question after question. I'm sure a good chunk of that fee goes to prometric. None of the spaces are marked and what the hay! I'm a customer too! I get over it and check in. Boy, the border patrol could take a lession from these guys. First she asks for my ticket-which I give her. Then they want to see a valid driver's license. Next I go and sit down with a lady who explains the rules to me. Oops! I left a pen in my pocket. Now I have to go back to the lockers and put my pen away. It wasn't even my super duper computer pen with all the answers stored in it. Ok, back to the explanation table. She has me sign my name and she takes a photo and fingerprint of me. Geez! There's no way in hell anyone could cheat in this place. They have ceiling mounted cameras trained on each testing station. I sit down and start to take my test. The room is pretty comfortable and the chair is too thank god. It's nice and quiet until.......vroooooommmm! I forgot we are in the flight path of Miramar Air Station. Every couple of minutes another plane goes screaming overhead. I reach for the earphones and they don't even begin to cut out the noise. Fortunately the test wasn't that difficult and what was billed as a four hour exam was quickly dispatched in about an hour and a half. I would have given it 5 stars for not having to travel outside the city but I deducted one point because of the airplane noise and another for the stupid rules about the parking. read more