Preparing for the PRC Board Exam—whether it’s for Criminology, Nursing, Education, or other professional fields—is a crucial step toward achieving your career goals. One of the most important decisions you’ll face early in your preparation is:

Should you self-review or enroll in a review center?

Both paths have pros and cons, and the best option depends on your learning style, discipline, and target outcomes. In this guide, we compare self-review vs. review center preparation to help you decide what’s right for your board exam journey.

What is Self-Review?

Self-review means studying independently—without enrolling in a formal review center. You manage your own time, gather your materials, and take charge of your board exam prep.

Pros of Self-Review:

  • Flexible schedule: Study at your own pace and convenience.
  • Lower cost: No enrollment or tuition fees.
  • Paced to your strengths: Focus more time on subjects you find difficult.

Cons of Self-Review:

  • Lack of structure: No guided syllabus or organized lesson flow.
  • No expert feedback: Hard to evaluate your weak areas or exam readiness.
  • Limited mock exams: Realistic exam simulations are often missing.

Best For: Highly disciplined students with strong study habits and access to reliable, updated review materials.

What is a Review Center?

A review center is a structured program designed to help students pass their board exams. It offers scheduled lessons, board-type mock exams, and support from professional instructors.

Pros of Enrolling in a Review Center:

  • Structured review plan: Covers all topics in a logical sequence.
  • Expert instruction: Learn from licensed professionals and board passers.
  • Updated materials: Aligned with the latest PRC syllabus and question trends.
  • Mock exams included: Simulate the real exam environment.
  • Peer motivation: Study alongside others with the same goals.

Cons of Review Centers:

  • Cost: Tuition and materials can be expensive.
  • Less flexible: Fixed schedules may not work well for working students.

Best For: First-time takers, repeaters, and students seeking guidance, accountability, and higher chances of passing.

Self-Review vs. Review Center: Side-by-Side Comparison

Criteria Self-Review Review Center
Cost Low or free Moderate to high (varies)
Study Structure Self-directed Pre-planned and guided
Materials Must source yourself Provided and regularly updated
Mock Exams Rarely available Included in most programs
Instructor Support None Led by licensed experts
Peer Support Solo study Group learning and motivation
Flexibility Fully flexible Less schedule (set schedule)
Success Rate Varies widely Typically higher

How to Decide What’s Right for You

Ask yourself the following:

  • Am I good at organizing and following my own study schedule?
  • Do I have access to updated and accurate review materials?
  • Can I stay consistent and focused on my own?
  • Is this my first time taking the board exam?
  • Would I benefit from expert support and peer encouragement?

If you’re unsure or feel overwhelmed, a review center can provide the structure, accountability, and motivation you need to succeed.

Why Many Criminology Students Choose Review Centers

For exams like the Licensure Examination for Criminologists (LEC), students often choose review centers because of the exam’s wide scope—covering Criminal Law, Forensics, Law Enforcement, and more. Expert guidance makes it easier to digest and retain complex topics.

Why Choose St. Louis Review Center – General Santos City?

At St. Louis Review Center, we’re proud to support aspiring professionals in achieving PRC board exam success through:

  • Licensed and experienced instructors
  • Up-to-date board-type handouts and digital resources
  • Regular full-length mock board exams with feedback
  • Personalized mentoring and motivational sessions
  • A supportive learning environment that promotes focus and consistency

Final Thoughts: Which is Better?

There’s no universal answer—self-review works for some, while review centers provide essential structure and support that help others thrive.

Whichever path you choose, the keys to success are:

  • Consistency
  • Discipline
  • Confidence
  • Quality Resources

And remember—if you ever need guidance, St. Louis Review Center in General Santos City is here to help.

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