I've started a thread on the iStock forums and basically what they're saying is that no, I won't get approved: unless I show that I know how to draw.
p.s.: I didn't know vector submissions didn't have an approval test before. That's interesting, khz. I'm aware that the "arsenal" of available vectors grew big on iStock, I completely understand and accept that, but so it did on other microstock sites as well, didn't it? So their choice to limit new submitters to only those that "know how to draw" (and this notion is as subjective as it gets and completely debatable - we all know the art of drawing isn't limited to pen and brush, is it?) is questionable. At least to me. But again: this might be just my opinion and I always speak my mind and "offer the cheek" if I find myself wrong.
But I've made my decision: I'll try creating some specific images for iStock and then if/when I get approved, I'll upload what sells most: we all know it is not vector "drawings" (literally as in "drawn by hand") but design elements such as backgrounds or stylish objects. And if this means attending the test a little later, shit, I'll apply later. Don't really want to wait three months...
... speaking of which: I think that the waiting time after failing the test gets longer and longer. I failed it three times and have to wait one month after the third slip. NM mentions that he failed four times (still can't understand how such a master isn't accepted on iStock;/) and he has to wait 3 months for the fifth attempt.
(but it is ironic, isn't it?
![Wink ;)](http://forum.dolgachov.com/Smileys/default/wink.gif)
) You fail the attempt and you have to wait THREE MONTHS. Picture that: for a couple of minutes of their review time they knock you off for THREE MONTHS;) Three months for three f. vector illustrations. Think about how much money could someone earn in three months (and not only the submitter - iStock as well, of course).