Global education services provider Kaplan Test Prep has launched a comprehensive HPAT (Health Professions Admission Test) prep course for the thousands of students who are aspiring for coveted spots at medical schools across Ireland. The 110 question, two and a half hour exam, which was first introduced in 2009, is divided into three sections: Logical Reasoning and Problem Solving; Interpersonal Understanding; and Non-Verbal Reasoning. Universities combine test takers’ HPAT score and their Leaving Certificate score to determine whether or not to admit applicants. Kaplan’s course launch comes at a time when HPAT scores are down for the second year in a row, which largely has to do with a change in how one of the exam’s sections is weighted. (http://www.irishtimes.com/news/education/hpat-scores-for-medical-school-entry-down-for-second-year-1.2258868)

Kaplan HPAT preparation classes are designed to adapt to individuals’ needs and learning preferences: Classroom (based in Dublin), Live Online, Self Study and private tutoring. All course options include five hours of instruction, four full-length HPAT practice tests, a strategy book, personalized score reports and teacher support until Test Day.

“Kaplan is the established world leader in preparing students for high-stakes admissions exams, with over 75 years of experience and expertise,” said Bharat Krishna, Vice President, Kaplan Test Prep International. “Our HPAT course will allow medical school applicants in Ireland to benefit from the same type of research-based, personalized test prep that has helped hundreds of thousands of medical school applicants throughout England and the U.S. succeed on the UKCAT and the MCAT respectively. We know how important the HPAT exam is in the admissions process in Ireland, and our students can be sure that we are as committed to their success on this test as they are.”

For more information about Kaplan’s HPAT course, and to access a free practice test, course giveaway and download a free study guide, visit www.kaptest.ie.

About Kaplan Test Prep International

Kaplan Test Prep International (www.kaptestglobal.com) is the international arm of Kaplan Test Prep (www.kaptest.com), a premier provider of educational and career services for individuals, schools and businesses. Established in 1938, Kaplan is the world leader in the test prep industry. With a comprehensive menu of online offerings as well as a complete array of print books and digital products, Kaplan offers preparation for more than 90 standardized tests, including entrance exams for secondary school, college and graduate school, as well as professional licensing exams for attorneys, physicians and nurses. Kaplan also provides private tutoring and graduate admissions consulting services. Additionally, Kaplan operates new economy skills training (NEST) bootcamps designed to provide immersive training in skills that are in high demand in today's job market and prepare participants for hire.

Note to editors: Kaplan is a subsidiary of The Graham Holdings Company (NYSE:GHC)