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KAPLAN Testing Resources

KAPLAN

Kaplan’s Admissions Test is a tool to determine if students have the academic skills necessary to perform effectively in a school of nursing or other health program. The Admissions Test is a 91-question, online, multiple-choice test that evaluates the basic reading, writing, math, and science skills of students.

About the KAPLAN Test

The Kaplan Admissions Test is a timed-test comprised of four sections with a total of 91 questions. The total testing time is up to 165 minutes. The test has a tutorial section with 9 questions. There is no time limit on the tutorial and it does not count towards total test time. Students are strongly encouraged to complete the tutorial at the beginning of the test.

Reading (time allotted-45 minutes) The reading section has a total of 22 questions. Students read passages and answer questions that measure the essential skills required for reading:

  1.  Determining the logic of a passage;
  2.  Comprehending details;
  3.  Drawing basic inferences;
  4.  Identifying the purpose of a passage.

Math (time allotted-45 minutes) The math section has a total of 28 questions. Hand-held calculators are not permitted on the test. An on-screen calculator is built into the test and available for students to use for mathematical functions. Students are also allowed to use scratch paper and pencils provided by the Proctors. The test measures a student’s ability to apply mathematical principles in the following areas:

  1.  Conversions;
  2.  Operations;
  3.  Ratios;
  4.  Word problems.

Writing (time allotted-45 minutes) The writing section has a total of 21 questions. Students read passages and answer questions that measure the essential skills required for writing:

  1.  Assessing passage development;
  2.  Assessing paragraph logic;
  3.  Assessing mechanics of writing.

Science (time allotted-30 minutes) The science section has a total of 20 questions. The test measures a student’s knowledge of physiology in the following areas:

  1.  Cardiovascular system;
  2.  Electrolytes;
  3.  Gastrointestinal system;
  4.  Immune system;
  5.  Neurology;
  6.  Renal system;
  7.  Hematological system;
  8.  Homeostasis;
  9.  Respiratory system;
  10.  Sensory system.

KAPLAN Preparation

  • Tutors are available in the Academic Support Center to assist students.
  • Mayland students can access free Kaplan study resources, including flashcards, a detailed study guide, and eight full length practice tests by following the directions below:
    • Log in to your Mayland account (email or Moodle)
    • Copy and paste the following link in a new tab: https://mayland.libguides.com
    • Click on "A-Z Resource List"
    • Search for “Mometrix” and click the "Mometrix eLibrary" link
    • Type “Kaplan” in the search bar at the top
    • Start accessing resources for free
      • Students should be aware that the science sections on the Mometrix practice exams contain questions from multiple subjects, but they should prioritize studying anatomy, specifically: cardiovascular system, electrolytes, gastrointestinal system, immune system, neurology, renal system, hematological system, homeostasis, respiratory system, sensory system.
  • Kaplan suggests the preparatory text Kaplan Nursing School Entrance Exams: Your Complete Guide to Getting Into Nursing School (Kaplan Nursing School Entrance Exam) by Kaplan. Focus on the areas identified above.
  • There are also study guides available with practice tests, such as the Nursing School Entrance Exams Prep series that is usually updated each year.

General Test-Taking Strategies for the KAPLAN

  • Be physically and mentally prepared for the exam. Be well-rested and remember to eat prior to your appointment. Dress comfortably.
  • Relax – if you feel anxious or worried, your scores will be impacted. Try deep breathing techniques if you become anxious during the examination.
  • Take care of any personal needs before the testing begins, so you can focus on performing well.
  • Be positive. Your attitude is important!
  • Listen attentively to the oral directions that are given to you by the Proctors.
  • Read the Admissions Test Instructions carefully and follow them exactly. Instructions for each part must be read and interpreted within given time limits.
  • Read the questions carefully. Work rapidly to answer as many questions as possible; however, do not rush through the test questions.
  • Indiscriminate guessing does not pay off. An educated, reasoned guess is worthwhile; however, random guessing is not recommended.

Testing Location and Registration

The test is administered at by the MCC Testing Center on the Main Campus.  It is administered once a semester (3 times a year).  Students who apply to a health sciences program will receive registration information upon applying to the program.

Notification of Results

Students will receive a cumulative score at the time of testing.  A comprehensive score analysis can be requested from the Success Advisor for Health Sciences Admissions after test completion.

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