Placement Tests

Most adults going to college for the first time are not expected to provide SAT or ACT scores. Instead, colleges may expect students to take a placement test after their acceptance at the school. The placement test determines how prepared you are to do college-level work.

Types of Placement Tests

There are usually three main placement tests. They test math, reading and writing abilities. You may need to brush up on these skills before testing time. Not all community colleges use the same placement tests. Look at the school’s website to determine which test they use. Usually, information about placement testing can be found in the Admissions section of the college’s website.

Here are some of the more commonly-used tests and some ways to prepare for them:

Some schools use their own placement test. Check to see if you can take it on a computer or on paper.
It is good to know general information about both methods so you can be prepared.

Things to know about tests on a computer:

• There are fewer questions.
• The questions change to match your ability. For example, if you answer a question incorrectly, the next question will not be harder.
• Most of these tests are timed.
• Scores are shared immediately.

But:

• Reading text on a computer screen can be difficult for some people.
• For the math section, you need to work out the problem on scrap paper and then input the correct answer in the computer.

Things to know about tests on paper:

• You can go back and check or change your answers when you are done answering all the questions, if you have time.
• You do not need to know how to use a computer to take it.
• You can work out math problems right in the test booklet.

But:

• The test is timed. For example, you may have to complete 25 questions within 35 minutes.
• The level of difficulty of the questions cannot change to match your ability. Questions tend start off relatively easy and then get harder.
• It might take a few days or weeks to receive the results.

Preparing for a Placement Test

You cannot fail a placement test. But you still need to study! The test determines what courses you will be placed in when you begin at college. Depending on your score, you may need to take extra developmental courses or you may be able to start regular college courses right away. If you give yourself time to brush up on some of the skills on the test, you increase your chances of doing well on the test and starting in a higher-level class than you would otherwise.

Your college’s website may have test preparation information or links to other test preparation websites. You can also go to the local library and borrow a few GED test practice books in math and language arts. Check out the Academic Brush Up page for more review resources.

If English is Your Second Language:

It is important to ask at the college which placement test they use if you want to earn college credits towards a degree. Some schools use one test for people who want to take ESL courses that don’t count towards a degree, and a different test for people who want to take college courses to get a degree.

Commonly-used Placement Tests with an ESL component

What’s Next?
Once you’ve finished taking your placement tests, it’s time to pick out your courses for the semester!