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Test
Preparation

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Our Track Record

ICON is the leader

in standardised test preparation coaching

Unparalleled expertise in all major standardised tests as well as latest developments in testing requirements

Over 70% of our clients achieve standardised test scores in the 90th percentile.

STUDENTS COACHED
> 30,000
Our Advantage

We are the FIRST and ONLY test preparation service in the world to leverage on Education Technology (GATEWAY)

Combining our in-person coaching expertise with online learning technologies, we are able to offer an optimal learning experience that features:

  • Online progress reports
  • Flexible learning, according to your schedule
  • Proprietary online content resources
  • Full-length practice tests with diagnostics

    • Our Coaches
    Our coaches' qualifications are important but we place just as much emphasis, if not more, on their sound pedagogical approaches and investment in their clients.

    All our test preparation coaches graduated from reputable universities, and are subject-matter experts trained in and knowledgeable about the latest testing trends, methods and strategies. They go through a stringent onboarding process so that their teaching approaches are in line with our promise to deliver high-quality coaching based on our 20+ years of accumulated expertise.

    Coming from some of the top universities in the world, our coaches know first-hand how demanding it can be to prepare for standardised tests. They are chosen for their dedication to guiding their clients beyond subject knowledge, to become confident thinkers and communicators. Because they are passionate educators, they often motivate their clients to aim high to secure academic success.

    Regardless of which coaches our clients are matched with, they will benefit from a team devoted to arming them with subject knowledge and test-taking skills for university admissions and beyond.

    Entry into
    Undergraduate Programmes

    • The SAT and ACT are both standardized tests that are commonly used for college admissions in the United States.
    • The main differences between the two tests include:
      • Content: The SAT tests verbal and mathematical reasoning skills, while the ACT tests knowledge in English, math, reading, and science, as well as an optional essay.
      • Test format: The SAT has four sections (reading, writing and language, math (with calculator), and math (no calculator)) while the ACT has five sections (English, mathematics, reading, science, and an optional writing test).
      • Scoring: The SAT is scored on a scale of 400-1600, while the ACT is scored on a scale of 1-36.
      • Test length: The SAT is 3 hours and 50 minutes long, while the ACT is 2 hours and 55 minutes long, not including the optional writing test.
      • Question format: The SAT includes a greater proportion of multiple-choice questions, while the ACT includes more questions that require students to provide a direct answer.
    • Ultimately, the test you choose to take will depend on your personal preferences and strengths. Some students may find the SAT's focus on verbal and mathematical reasoning skills to be a better fit, while others may prefer the ACT's broader content areas and more direct questions. Many colleges and universities accept either test, so it's worth looking at the requirements of the schools you're interested in attending before deciding which test to take.

     

      • UCAT (University Clinical Aptitude Test) and  BMAT (BioMedical Admissions Test) is used by universities in the United Kingdom and some other countries as part of their selection process for medicine and other healthcare courses.
      • ISAT (International Student Admissions Test) is used by Australian universities as part of their selection process for medicine and other healthcare courses.
    • The ISAT, UCAT and BMAT are all standardised tests used for the purpose of assessing the aptitude of students who are applying to study medicine and related healthcare courses.
    • The tests are different in terms of content, format, and scoring. Each test assesses different knowledge and skills, and the universities will have different weightings and cut-off scores for each test. It is important to research the specific requirements and format of each test and prepare accordingly.
    • The LNAT (National Admissions Test for Law) is a standardized test used as part of the admissions process for law degree courses at a number of universities in the United Kingdom. The test assesses a candidate's verbal reasoning and critical thinking skills and is used to help universities identify candidates who have the potential to excel in the study of law.
    • The LNAT is divided into two parts:
      • Multiple-choice questions: This part of the test assesses a candidate's verbal reasoning skills, including reading comprehension and logical thinking.
      • Essay: This part of the test requires candidates to write an essay on a given topic, which is designed to assess their ability to express themselves clearly and coherently in written English.
    • The LNAT is usually taken in the months of September or October before applying to universities. The test is administered by the LNAT Consortium, which is made up of 14 leading UK universities. The test scores are valid for one year and are considered as part of the overall application package, along with academic qualifications, personal statement, and references.
    • The test is not used by all universities in the United Kingdom, so it is important to check the specific requirements of the universities to which you are applying.

    Entry into
    Graduate Programmes

    • The GMAT and GRE are both standardised tests that are commonly used for graduate-level admissions in business and management programs (GMAT) and in graduate programs in various fields (GRE).
    • Ultimately, the test you choose to take will depend on the requirements of the graduate program you are applying to. Some programs may only accept one of the tests, while others may accept either.
    • The main differences between the two tests include:
      • Test format: The GMAT has four sections (Analytical Writing Assessment, Intergrated Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Verbal reasoning), while the GRE has six sections (two verbal reasoning, two quantitative reasoning, and two analytical writing tasks).
      • Scoring: The GMAT is scored on a scale of 200-800, while the GRE is scored on a scale of 130-170 for each of the two verbal and quantitative sections.
      • Test length: The GMAT is 3.5 hours long, while the GRE is 3 hours and 45 minutes long.
    • The MCAT (Medical College Admission Test) is a standardized exam used to assess the knowledge and skills required for medical school in the United States and Canada, while the GAMSAT (Graduate Australian Medical School Admissions Test) is a similar test used to assess the suitability of applicants for graduate-entry medical programmes in Australia and the UK.
      • The MCAT (Medical College Admission Test) is a standardised examination required for admission to medical schools in the United States and Canada. The MCAT is designed to assess problem-solving, critical thinking, and knowledge of natural, behavioural, and social science concepts and principles prerequisite to the study of medicine.
      • The MCAT is a computer-based, multiple-choice test that is divided into four sections:
        • Biological and Biochemical Foundations of Living Systems (BBLS)
        • Chemical and Physical Foundations of Biological Systems (CPBS)
        • Psychological, Social, and Biological Foundations of Behaviour (PSBB)
        • Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills (CARS)
        • The test is administered multiple times per year and typically takes around seven and a half hours to complete including breaks.
      • The MCAT score ranges between 472 and 528, and the score is a major factor that medical schools consider when evaluating applicants. The MCAT is administered by the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) and is considered a mandatory test for most medical schools in the United States and Canada.
    • The GAMSAT is scored on a scale of 0 to 100, with the scores from the three sections (Reasoning in Humanities and Social Sciences, Written Communication, and Reasoning in Biological and Physical Sciences) combined to give an overall score. The scores are then used by medical schools as part of their admission process, along with other factors such as academic record and personal statements. The exact weighting given to the GAMSAT score may vary between medical schools.
    • The LSAT (Law School Admission Test) is a standardised test that is required for admission to most law schools in the United States, Canada, and a few other countries. The test is designed to measure skills that are considered essential for success in law school, such as reading comprehension, analytical reasoning, and logical reasoning.
    • The LSAT is a multiple-choice test that is divided into six sections: one reading comprehension section, one analytical reasoning section, and four logical reasoning sections. The test is administered four times a year and typically takes around three and a half hours to complete.
    • The test is scored on a scale of 120-180, and the score is a major factor that law schools consider when evaluating applicants. Additionally, a writing sample is also included in the LSAT which is usually sent to the law schools along with the application.
    • The LSAT is administered by the Law School Admission Council (LSAC) and is considered a mandatory test for most law schools and widely accepted around the world.


    English Proficiency Tests

    • TOEFL, PTE, and IELTS are all standardized tests used to assess the English language proficiency of non-native speakers. 

    • Ultimately, the test you choose to take will depend on the requirements of the institution or program you are applying to, and what is most convenient for you. Some universities may accept any of the tests, while others may have a preference for one over the others.​

    • Test format and length: The TOEFL is a computer-based test that is divided into four sections (reading, listening, speaking, and writing) and you will have 4 hours long ti complete the test. 

    • Scoring will be on a scale of 0-120

    • TOEFL is widely recognized and accepted by universities in the United States and Canada,

    • PTE is a computer-based test that is divided into three sections (speaking and writing, listening, and reading)

    •  PTE focuses on speaking and writing. 

    • PTE is 3 hours long,

    • PTE is scored on a scale of 10-90

    • PTE and IELTS are widely recognized by universities in the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand.

    • IELTS is available in both computer-delivered and paper-based format, and it also divided into four sections (listening, reading, writing and speaking).

    • IELTS also tests all four language skills, but it is more focused on academic English.

    • IELTS is 2 hours and 45 minutes long.

    • IELTS is scored on a scale of 1-9.

    • PTE and IELTS are widely recognized by universities in the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand.

    Group Class Schedule

    How we will help

    Our Process

    Take a diagnostic test

    Before formulating a coaching plan, we require students to take a diagnostic test to pinpoint strengths and areas that need improvement

    This establishes a baseline for the test preparation process and the amount of work necessary to achieve the target score.

    Create a customised plan

    Once you’ve completed the diagnostic test, our programme manager will go through your results, tailor a study plan and assign a coach (or coaches) who will best address the areas you need improvement in.

    We will prescribe a method best suited to your learning style, time availability and budget — face-to-face coaching, group classes, or self-directed learning on our online portal GATEWAY

    Strategise your efforts

    We will identify and prioritise specific areas of improvement that will yield the greatest improvement in scores

    We will familiarise you with the format and content of the test. This includes understanding the types of questions that will be asked, the time limit, and the scoring system.

    Study and review the material that will be covered on the test. This includes understanding key concepts and terms, as well as any formulas or rules that may be relevant.

    Learn test-taking strategies. This includes time management, how to eliminate incorrect answers, and how to approach different types of questions.

    Practice tests are a great way to get a sense of your progress and specific areas where you might need additional work

    Achieve clear goals

    Coaching progress reports are used to identify potential issues and help create a plan to address them and how to best ensure your academic success.

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