The excitement and nerves that come with embarking on your college journey are impeccable. It’s a new beginning and a new experience. I remember the anticipation and uncertainty that I felt when I was about to resume college.
Trust me, just like you, I worked so hard to acquire a good score in the entrance exam. However, there were other vital exams waiting for me—college placement tests.
A test that determines your placement in certain coursework, particularly in Mathematics and English. It is crucial in your college career because it helps you realize your ability.
In this brief guide, I will walk you through each stage of college placement tests, from the test concept to interpreting your scores.
Therefore, hang on, and let’s jump right into it.
Understanding College Placement Tests
College placement tests are standardized tests administered to incoming students to assess their academic prowess and appropriately enroll them in courses. The tests typically cover subjects such as English, Reading, Mathematics, and Foreign languages. Students are placed in courses that are challenging but achievable and to help them succeed in college.
A college placement test helps colleges to know you better academically, helping them understand where you shine and where you might need a little extra support.
This assessment process assists them to place you in the right courses according to your academic skills.
Typically, placement tests cover subjects, such as Mathematics, English, Reading, Writing, and Foreign languages. These tests are often taken to see where you’re most comfortable and where you might struggle.
Let me explain in detail.
What is Placement Testing?
Placement testing is a process of evaluating your skills to place you in a course that matches your proficiency level.
According to a survey, approximately 90 percent of community college students sit for placement tests before registering for classes. Therefore, don’t be scared because you are not alone.
In most cases, two-year colleges and even four-year colleges provide open and non-competitive admissions. Consequently, a noticeable number of students who lack basic college-level academic qualifications get admitted.
Therefore, many colleges ask their prospective students to take a placement test so that they can evaluate them according to their abilities and enroll them in a certain course.
Unlike other traditional tests, placement tests have no “pass” or “fail.” Rather, students with lower scores are required to take developmental or remedial courses to enhance certain academic skills.
Types of Placement Tests
There are a number of placement tests available for the students depending on the colleges. However, most colleges prefer to assess their students using these seven placement tests
- Mathematics
- Reading
- Writing
- Foreign languages
- English
- Computer and Internet technologies
- Health and natural sciences
Most community and four-year colleges often require the initial five of these tests.
However, to make the whole testing process efficient for the students, the colleges have generated an integrated computer-based system named the ACCUPLACER test.
What is an ACCUPLACER and how does it work?
ACCUPLACER is a group of tests that colleges administer to assess how well students understand Reading, Writing, and Mathematics.
ACCUPLACER is a testing system that includes a number of tests on subjects, such as Reading, Writing, and Mathematics, to evaluate the incoming students’ capabilities. It helps colleges to place every student in the right courses, aligning with their skill level and academic readiness.
Now, let’s have a closer look at each placement test.
1. Math Placement Test
A Math placement test evaluates your mathematical proficiency. The test covers a wide range of topics such as arithmetic (addition, multiplication, subtraction, decimals, division, and fraction), pre-algebra, algebra, trigonometry, and graphing.
It also covers advanced topics, including parabolas, logarithms, and determinants.
You have 90 min to answer 60 multiple-choice questions, and a score of 30 or higher can get you a great placement in math courses.
To avoid struggle and becoming overwhelmed in advanced courses, it is critical to complete this section.
2. Reading Placement Test
A reading placement test assesses your ability to comprehend what you read. You will be involved in reading different texts and passages. Subsequently, you will be asked to answer multiple-choice questions.
The total number of questions varies per college. In general, you have to answer 30 questions. For more information, check out your college website or contact your college authority.
However, this test will gauge your ability to understand, analyze, and interpret written information. Your placement in English or Literature courses mostly depends on these results.
3. Writing Placement Test
In a writing placement test, students are required to read a brief composition and then compose a coherent essay in response to it.
This test evaluates your grammar, punctuation, sentence structure, and thought expression.
Your writing skills might not be good enough for college, even if you did well in high school. Thus, there is a writing placement test requirement from most community colleges for first-year students.
In most cases, you have to submit a passage or thesis within two hours; and this whole process includes topic outlining and writing.
4. English Placement Test
An English placement test evaluates how well you can read and understand written English. The test has three parts: reading, writing, and listening.
Unlike others, an English placement test is not mandatory for every college or university; however, some of them require it.
For instance, the University of Georgia administers an English placement test that contains 60 questions for a duration of 60 min.
This test will assess your broader language skills, including vocabulary, language usage, and grammar.
5. Foreign language Placement Test
Foreign Language Placement Test or Foreign Language Placement Assessment is designed to assess your foreign language proficiency based on your previous coursework and skill on the language.
It helps colleges to identify your appropriate level for a particular foreign language course, whether it’s introductory, intermediate, or advanced.
The foreign language test includes questions related to listening, vocabulary, and grammar.
6. Computer and Internet Technologies Placement Test
A Computer Skill Placement test, also known as Computer Skill Assessment, evaluates your computer literacy and proficiency in using various computer applications and softwares.
Students who aim to major in technology-related courses are required to sit for this placement test. Through this test, colleges or universities analyze if you have a fundamental understanding of computers, softwares, and hardwares.
Additionally, it examines your basic and advanced knowledge of databases and spreadsheets.
However, the exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as introduction to computer systems, system software, Microsoft (MS) Word, MS PowerPoint, and MS Excel.
7. Health Science Placement Test
The Health Science Placement Test or TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) examines your entry-level skills of health science in four subjects and assigns the appropriate course to you according to your expertise.
The four subjects include:
- Reading
- Mathematics
- Science
- English and language usage
Take the TEAS test if you are an applicant for a nursing or radiology program. Moreover, it is a computerized exam consisting of multiple-choice questions.
The table below presents the time and number distribution
| Section of Exam | Number of Questions | Time (min) |
| Reading | 53 | 64 |
| Math | 36 | 54 |
| Science | 53 | 63 |
| English and language usage | 28 | 28 |
| Total | 170 | 209 |
Now the question is, what are the possible skills for which you will be questioned?
You will be questioned about:
- Reading (31%) – Craft and structure, key ideas and details, and consolidation of ideas and knowledge.
- Math (22%) – Measurements and data, numbers, and algebra.
- Science (31%) – Scientific reasoning, life and physical science, as well as human anatomy and physiology
- English and Language Usage (16%) – Vocabulary, knowledge of language, and standard English
Why Are College Placement Tests Essential?
College placement tests are essential because they help colleges to determine if you have the required skills to enroll in college.
They help the college to make an informed decision about the course placements and assist you in your academic career. It ensures you remain in your comfort zone and enjoy the classes.
Your scores in these tests are critical; high scores can open the doors of advanced courses for you.
What Happens if Your College Placement Tests Scores are Low?
You’ll be placed in classes that will help you learn the material before you move on to harder classes if you don’t perform well in a placement test. However, you can’t fail a placement test.
It will lead you to a remedial class, which ultimately helps you to improve. Thus, it’s a win-win situation.
For instance, my high school friend Sarah, who scored exceptionally well in the placement test, resulted in her being placed in advanced Mathematics and Science classes right from the start of college.
This boosted her confidence and helped her to be ahead of schedule.
Conversely, Tom had difficulty in his writing placement test, leading him to enroll in a remedial writing class. Eventually, he improved his skills and excelled in higher-level writing.
Seven Important Preparation Tips for College Placement Tests
The following are seven practical tips on how to prepare effectively for college placement tests—
Understand the Test Format
Familiarize yourself with the format and structure of the placement test. You should have an idea about the types of questions, sections, and time constraints for each section.
Review the Content
Identify the subject areas covered in the placement test. For example, review concepts in algebra, geometry, and arithmetic if it’s a math placement test.
For a writing placement test, develop your grammar, punctuation, and essay writing skills.
Use Official Study Materials
Many placement tests, such as the ACCUPLACER, offer official study materials and practice tests. Utilize them and gain a better understanding of the test content.
Seek Additional Resources
In addition to official study materials, explore other resources including test prep books, online courses, and study guides. There are often free or affordable options available online.
Create a Study Schedule
Design a study schedule according to your learning style and commitments. Dedicate specific periods each day or week because consistency is key; therefore, stick to your schedule.
Break It Down
Divide your study material into sections. Moreover, focusing on one topic or subject area at a time will make studying more manageable.
Practice Regularly
Practice is essential for test preparation. Take practice tests under timed conditions to simulate the actual test environment. It will also help you get accustomed to the pressure of the test.
Taking the Test – Dos and Don’ts
It’s finally the test day! What you should do and what you shouldn’t? Typically, taking a placement test requires exquisite planning and execution. However, to ensure a good score, follow these instructions:
- Aim to arrive early because arriving late can easily increase your stress levels.
- Check your test center’s guidelines in advance and bring all the necessary materials (means of identification, pencils, any allowed reference sheet, and calculator).
- When you start, read each question and prompt carefully. You can first read the questions and identify some keywords if there is a passage. This will help you to answer faster and more efficiently.
- Smart time management is crucial. Don’t dwell on difficult questions; move on to the next after marking them for review.
- Answer all the questions if there is no penalty for a wrong answer. An educated guess can earn you points.
- Check for omissions at the end of every section.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a decent score for College Placement Tests?
In general, an ACCUPLACER test score between 200 and 230 is considered a low score, while 230 and above is considered a good score. Having said that, I recommend aiming for 260.
How can I register for placement tests?
To register for a placement test, contact an enrollment advisor who will assess your academic history and inform you whether or not to take a test. Thereafter, sign up on your college website and download the placement test form to register. It may require your school account. Remember, the process can vary depending on the college.
How many times can I take a placement test for college?
You can have two retakes for college placement tests. However, some colleges ask the second retaker students to take the diagnostic version of the placement test as well.
Final Words
College placement tests are pivotal in shaping your academic success. With proper preparation, intellectual guidance, careful execution, and a positive mindset, you can achieve your desire.
These tests aren’t barriers, they are opportunities that are waiting for you; They are ways to showcase your abilities and expertise.
Therefore, embrace them, stay focused, and let them guide you towards a brighter future and success.
Reference Links
· https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Placement_testing
· https://study.com/academy/popular/how-many-times-can-you-take-the-accuplacer-test.html
· https://collegeforadults.org/applying-to-college/placement-tests
