Prometric Services is a global testing provider with tests for anything from nursing to computer certifications to state licenses. I recently took a test for a state license in South Carolina. I was very well prepared for the test and had studied intensively and thoroughly, even buying study guide books and tabbing all of my open book references. I was very confident before, during, and after the exam of my success. I even paid for expedited scoring to inform my employer that their $400 worth of books for the exam were well spent. I received my results via automated telephone with a score of 69%. That is 1 point shy of a passing grade.
I was shocked, so I called Prometric to ask for a review of my exam. The lady on the phone informed me that Prometric does not allow this until a failing score is received 3 times and then I would be able to pay for a review. I asked her could I see my test questions and answer sheet if I did do a review after 3 attempts and she notified me that only the test questions would be presented. I didn't understand why my multiple choice answer sheet would not be allowed. I asked her what prevents Prometric from doubling or tripling their profit margin by simply giving false scores. She told me that I just had to trust that Prometric had nothing against me. I explained that I understood that it wasn't personal and that it was all business with no checks and balances to keep them honest.
To even get a "review" one must fail 3 times i.E. Pay $210 before one can pay the additional 4th test fee of $75 for a review in which you can't even compare your answer sheet with the test booklet. So they probably figure you will just pay to take the exam again instead of wasting time on a "review" that won't affect the outcome. They probably don't give too many reviews because they probably allow you to pass on the third time because you've filled their quota. I spoke to the state representative and she told me that they get a lot of complaints about Prometric and that she advised me to take a different test from a different company, meanwhile I'm out $25 for the application fee, $75 for the registration fee, about $500 in study materials, and about 25 hours of time. Thanks a lot Prometric.
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