Kaplan testing prep is now free for the students at the University of Detroit Mercy. Kaplan is an educational company that offers courses to help college students prepare for services including practice tests, study guides and online resources designed to help students and professionals improve their performance on these exams. These include the GRE, GMAT, DAT, the MCAT and the LSAT. Kaplan is typically offered at other universities for a considerable fee.
UDM is very optimistic about this change in testing.
“This partnership supports UDM’s Jesuit and Mercy mission by providing another transformative, student-centered opportunity to prepare for these challenging examinations without the worry of cost for these services,” said Pamela Zarkowski, UDM provost and vice president for academic affairs when the partnership was announced in May.
Zarkowski’s response was centered around the student’s financial stress. Less financial stress is a huge plus to free testing. Students already face financial pressures from application fees, tuition and living expenses.
Free Kaplan testing would ease the financial burden associated with preparing for major exams, as well as level the playing field for students from low-income backgrounds.
“The availability of free Kaplan test preparation at Detroit Mercy is a tremendous opportunity for our students,” said Greg Grobis, associate dean for undergraduate education in the College of Humanities, Arts & Social Sciences. “It aligns perfectly with our Jesuit and Mercy mission, which emphasizes social justice, access, and the holistic development of students. By eliminating the financial burden typically associated with preparing for crucial exams—whether they’re for professional licensure or graduate school admissions—this partnership allows all students to focus on their academic goals and professional aspirations. In a rapidly evolving world, it is essential that our students have the tools and resources they need to succeed. Kaplan’s expert-led prep courses provide an invaluable advantage for students entering competitive fields. I’m thrilled that we’re able to offer this service for free, ensuring equity in access to these critical resources.”
The students at UDM are also excited about this opportunity.
“I read about how Kaplan testing at Detroit Mercy after my high school (Groves High School) sent out an article informing all the students on how Detroit Mercy offers it for free,” freshman Amanda Hamze said. “At that point Detroit Mercy was already one of my top school choices, but this persuaded me even more. I am studying political science at Detroit Mercy with hopes of going to law school. Law school is already expensive at it is, so having free Kaplan testing is really nice.”
Others also discussed the benefit of the free testing prep.
“A lot of things are already expensive as it is, so being able to access Kaplan for free here is a blessing,” freshman Bella Bowman said.
Kaplan’s free resources could help individuals advance in their careers by providing high-quality preparation that boosts their chances of success as well as give support for lifelong learning. Free access to Kaplan’s resources would support individuals who are committed to continuing education and self-improvement.
