AAMC PREview exam-day guide
AAMC PREview · Prepare for the day ahead.
Your checklist
Government-issued photo ID
Bring the original, unexpired photo ID in the name you registered with. Exact accepted ID types and name-match rules should be confirmed with the test provider (AAMC) and the testing vendor before test day.
Confirmation/scheduling details
Have your appointment confirmation, test date/time, and testing location or remote-proctoring instructions accessible. Confirm the exact check-in window and arrival time with the provider.
Know the test format and sections
PREview is a situational-judgment test built around scenarios asking how effective a described response would be; review the official description of the format and timing on the AAMC site so nothing surprises you on test day. Confirm current timing and section structure with the provider.
Practice with the official sample materials
Work through any official practice or tutorial materials the provider offers so you understand the scenario format and response scale before the real test.
Understand the scoring/reporting basics
Know that PREview is scored and reported separately from the MCAT and how scores are sent to schools; confirm current scoring and score-reporting details with AAMC.
Remote-testing environment (if applicable)
If testing remotely, confirm equipment, camera, room, and internet requirements with the vendor in advance; do a system check early. Whether remote testing is offered can change, so confirm with the provider.
Plan logistics
Map the route or set up your testing space, and plan to arrive/log in with buffer time so you are settled and calm before the start.
Sleep and nutrition plan
Protect sleep in the days before, and plan a normal meal and hydration so you are not distracted by hunger or caffeine crashes during the test.
Read all instructions carefully
On test day, read every on-screen instruction and scenario prompt fully; situational-judgment items reward careful reading of what is being asked.
Confirm what is allowed at your seat
Rules on items like scratch paper, pens, phones, and watches vary by setting and can change; confirm the permitted-items list with the provider rather than assuming.
Backup plan for tech or travel problems
Know the vendor's contact/support number and what to do if you have a technical or travel issue; confirm the exact procedure with the provider.
Calm-down routine
Have a short pre-test routine (a few slow breaths, a quick reminder of your strategy) to manage nerves before you begin.
Plan the day
Confirm your appointment, ID requirements, and location or remote-testing setup with the provider. Do a light review of the official format and sample items, but avoid cramming new material. Normalize sleep and keep logistics simple.
Lay out your ID and confirmation details, charge devices if relevant, and re-check the arrival/login time. Do a brief strategy review only, then stop studying early and get a full night's sleep.
Eat a normal meal, hydrate moderately, and arrive or log in with buffer time. Do a final check that your ID and confirmation are in hand, then use a short breathing routine to settle in.
Read each scenario and question fully before answering, apply a consistent framework for judging how effective a response would be, and pace yourself so you reach every item. If a break is offered, confirm the rules for it before you take it; take breaks only as permitted.
Note anything the provider said about score release and score reporting, and confirm how and when scores are sent to schools.
Rules to check
Bring valid, unexpired government-issued photo ID in your registered name; confirm the exact accepted forms and name-match policy with the provider before test day.
Follow all check-in, security, and permitted-items rules given by the test administrator or proctor; if unsure whether an item is allowed, ask or leave it behind. Confirm specifics with the provider.
Take breaks only when and as permitted. If you are unsure whether a break is allowed at a given point, confirm with the provider rather than assuming.
Do not communicate with others about test content during the test, and do not attempt to record or share test items; treat all test content as confidential per the provider's rules.
Answer every question; there is no penalty structure you should assume beyond what the provider states, so confirm scoring details with AAMC rather than guessing.
If a technical or environmental problem occurs, pause and follow the proctor's or vendor's instructions; confirm the exact reporting procedure with the provider.
Understand that PREview is scored and reported separately from the MCAT and that schools set their own use of the score; confirm current scoring and reporting details with AAMC.