Bringing cellphone to GRE test center

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the regulations regarding bringing cell phones and other electronic devices to a GRE test center, as outlined by the ETS website. Participants share their experiences and seek clarification on what is permissible, particularly in relation to personal belongings and the logistics of arriving at the test center.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants express confusion about whether they can bring their cell phones to the test center or if the prohibition applies from the moment they leave home.
  • One participant shares their past experience with the TOEFL test, where they were allowed to bring their phone to the door of the testing room but had to leave it with the test administrator.
  • Another participant suggests that some test centers may have lockers available for storing personal items, while others may not accommodate such requests.
  • Concerns are raised about the responsibilities of test proctors regarding the handling of personal belongings, with some arguing that it is not their job to manage students' property.
  • A participant mentions logistical challenges related to their accommodation and the timing of check-out in relation to the test schedule.
  • One participant proposes using a train station locker to store luggage and a phone if the test center does not allow personal items.
  • Another participant emphasizes the importance of directly contacting the test center for clarification on their policies.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that the ETS guidelines prohibit bringing cell phones into the test center, but there is no consensus on how strictly this is enforced or what accommodations might be available for personal belongings.

Contextual Notes

Participants mention varying experiences with different testing environments, indicating that regulations may differ by location and test type. There are also logistical considerations regarding personal items that remain unresolved.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals preparing for the GRE test, especially those traveling to test centers in different locations, may find this discussion relevant.

maNoFchangE
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I have scheduled a GRE test next week and in the ETS website it says that "Do not bring cell phones, smartphones (e.g., Android®, BlackBerry® or iPhone® devices), PDAs, digital watches, smartwatches and other electronic, recording, listening or photographic devices into the test center". Does it mean I am really not allowed to bring my cellphone the moment I leave my apartment to head to the test center? Anyone with this experience already?
 
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maNoFchangE said:
I have scheduled a GRE test next week and in the ETS website it says that "Do not bring cell phones, smartphones (e.g., Android®, BlackBerry® or iPhone® devices), PDAs, digital watches, smartwatches and other electronic, recording, listening or photographic devices into the test center". Does it mean I am really not allowed to bring my cellphone the moment I leave my apartment to head to the test center? Anyone with this experience already?

And you're taking the GRE...?

It means exactly what it says, don't bring those devices into the test center. You can leave your apartment with it all day long, as long you don't bring it in.
 
Meaning I can leave it at the hand of one of the test administrators before I enter the testing room?
 
maNoFchangE said:
Meaning I can leave it at the hand of one of the test administrators before I enter the testing room?

You'll have to call them and ask, some test centers will have lockers for people who use mass transit and can't leave them in vehicles, others proctors will collect them. If they can't accommodate you, you'll have to leave it at home.
 
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maNoFchangE said:
I have scheduled a GRE test next week and in the ETS website it says that "Do not bring cell phones, smartphones (e.g., Android®, BlackBerry® or iPhone® devices), PDAs, digital watches, smartwatches and other electronic, recording, listening or photographic devices into the test center". Does it mean I am really not allowed to bring my cellphone the moment I leave my apartment to head to the test center? Anyone with this experience already?
How is that complicated or confusing? Just imagine what devious students or other test-takers might like to do with any of those devices during testing!
 
symbolipoint said:
How is that complicated or confusing? Just imagine what devious students or other test-takers might like to do with any of those devices during testing!
I indeed don't expect them to let me bring the mentioned devices inside the testing room. The fact is, I have taken TOEFL test two years ago in my home country and I was allowed to bring my phone until the door leading to the testing room. There, I was required to leave my phone with the test administrator. Now that I will be testing in another country, I am thinking that the regulation will be stricter.
I asked this because actually the test center I chose is located away from the city where I live in. One day before the test I will arrive there and stay overnight in a hostel. However it turns out that the check-out time of that hostel is available only before a certain time where at that time I will be doing the test. In short, I have to check-out at the same moment I am heading to the center, and I will surely bring my luggage along to the test center. I hope I illustrate my situation clearer this time.
 
maNoFchangE said:
I indeed don't expect them to let me bring the mentioned devices inside the testing room. The fact is, I have taken TOEFL test two years ago in my home country and I was allowed to bring my phone until the door leading to the testing room. There, I was required to leave my phone with the test administrator. Now that I will be testing in another country, I am thinking that the regulation will be stricter.
I asked this because actually the test center I chose is located away from the city where I live in. One day before the test I will arrive there and stay overnight in a hostel. However it turns out that the check-out time of that hostel is available only before a certain time where at that time I will be doing the test. In short, I have to check-out at the same moment I am heading to the center, and I will surely bring my luggage along to the test center. I hope I illustrate my situation clearer this time.
What you wish for is reasonable.
 
It';s not confusing. It says "don't bring it to the test center". This may be inconvenient, but that's what they say.

If I were a proctor, I would not hold anyone's property. What if I give the wrong student someone else's property? Besides, I have work to do - that's why I am there. Being a hat check girl is not part of my job description.

If you take your phone, you may get them to take it. Or you may manage to get it in at the bottom of your luggage with nobody the wiser. Or you may get found out and yours scores nullified. Or you can live without your phone for two days. It's your choice.
 
Do railroad stations in your current country have a place to leave luggage securely, e.g. in a locker or a checkroom, for a few hours? If yes, go from the hostel to the station, leave your luggage and phone, and then go to the testing center.
 
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  • #10
I like post #8 and also post #9.

The best to do is ask the test center officials. If they say "no", then make what arrangements you need to.
 
  • #11
Just asked the test center, good thing they will allow me to bring my luggage along and they also provide a locker.