STUDENT SERVICES



ACCUPLACER FAQS
ACCUPLACER is a computerized
placement test in reading, writing, and
math that is a part of Sinclair
Community College’s enrollment and
registration process. This test will
determine which classes students
should schedule during their first
term. It is not a pass/fail exam. The
goal is to ensure students are placed in
classes that are neither too difficult nor
too easy.
Must I show a photo ID to take the ACCUPLACER Placement test?
Yes, a Tartan ID card or a State/Government Issued ID is required for placement testing.
Who should take ACCUPLACER?
• All new degree seeking and
certificate students.
• Transfer students who do not have
transfer credits in English or math
from their previous school(s).
• Transient students who want to take
English or math.
• Any student who has not tested in
the past two years or transferred
college level courses.
How many questions are on the test?
ACCUPLACER asks a fixed number
of questions in each area of the test.
There are 20 questions each in the
Writing (Sentence Skills) and Reading,
17 questions in Arithmetic, 12
questions in Elementary Algebra and 20 questions in College Level Math.
How long does it take to complete the placement test?
Allow approximately two hours to
complete the entire test. Remember,
ACCUPLACER is not timed, so
individuals may work at their own
pace and are encouraged to take their
time. Breaks from testing are
permitted and encouraged.
Do students need an appointment to take ACCUPLACER?
No, the test is given individually on a
first come, first served basis. Arrive at
least three hours before closing time to
complete the entire test.
However, if you are bringing a group for testing, please contact the Testing Center Coordinator at (937) 512-2618 to schedule a date and time.
Should students bring anything with them to the test?
Students need to know their Social
Security number. Use of
personal calculators, cellular devices,
dictionaries, notes, textbooks, or any
other reference/resource materials is
not permitted.
Do students need computer skills?
ACCUPLACER is designed for
individuals with little or no computer
experience. A testing proctor is
available to assist students in getting
started.
When should students complete their ACCUPLACER assessment?
Students must complete placement
testing before meeting with their
academic advisor and prior to
registering for classes.
Remember, the earlier in the term
students register the better the
selection of classes.
What does it mean that ACCUPLACER is an adaptive test?
Each test is adaptive. This means that
the computer automatically determines
which questions are presented to each
individual based on their responses to
prior questions. This technique selects
just the right questions to ask without
being too easy or too difficult.
Each test is untimed so the individual
can give each question as much
thought as needed. However, once the
answer has been selected and
confirmed, there is no going back to
that question.
Should students review?
YES! Reviewing is an excellent way to
refresh basic math, reading, and
writing skills. Many students find SAT
or GED review books helpful. These
and other review materials are available
in the library. Sinclair Community
College also offers the services of the
Academic Resource Center (ARC)
where computer based instruction is
available for non-registered new
students. ARC services are intended to
refresh and improve skills in English,
math and reading. A practice test is also available at http://www.testprepreview.com/accuplacer_practice.htm.
When do students get their results?
Results will be provided upon
completion of the test along with
information about the next steps
required in order to register for classes.
Students will be asked to keep their
placement test results for the meeting
with their academic advisor. The
academic advisor will explain the test
results and make recommendations
based on the test scores and selected
major.
What is the Placement Retest policy?
Students may retake the placement test
for writing, reading, and math once
per calendar year for a $15.00 fee. Students who wish to
retest must wait 24 hours between the
original and the retest. The most
recent scores are valid for two years.
Are children permitted to wait in the lobby while the student takes the placement test?
In keeping with
campus policy, children are
not permitted in the Testing
Center nor are they permitted
to be left unattended in the
lobby.
What if I have already taken the Accuplacer test?
If you have tested within the last two years, you most likely will not need to retest. In order to determine this, you should first meet with an academic advisor.
What if I have taken the ACT within the last two years?
You will be exempt from taking the test in any section that you have met the minimum score guideline: 22 or higher in math; 21 or higher in reading; and 18 or higher in English. If your ACT scores have not been sent to Sinclair electronically, you will need to send them through the ACT official web site (www.act.org), and you will need to bring an unofficial copy of your scores with you to show an advisor.
What if I have been out of school for a long time?
You are not in the minority. Many of our students have been out of school for a number of years. We are prepared to meet your needs with a step-by-step program, as well as assistance along the way.
What if I did not do well?
Remember that you cannot pass or fail the Accuplacer test. Your score reflects placement into a class that will challenge you, but not overwhelm you. Proper placement ensures that you will be successful in your class.
What if I just do not test well?
The Accuplacer test is adaptive and works with you as an assessment tool. Prior to testing, make sure you are well rested. Take advantage of the listed test preparation review tips. Most importantly, do not rush—take your time during the test. Good preparation builds your confidence which will ensure your success.
I scored lower than I thought I would—now what?
If it is your first time testing in the calendar year, you have the option to retest. The most successful retesters review the types of questions that they were unsure how to answer. If you have taken the test twice and your score was within the same score range, then most likely you are at the correct placement. You should take the recommended class and to develop a solid foundation.
What if I live beyond 60 miles of Sinclair and cannot come to campus to take the placement test?
You may take the test at one of Sinclair's Testing Centers or secure a proctor, or exam supervisor, by following the steps on the Proctored Placement Test web page

Did You Know?
Nine of our students have made the Academic All-American First Team for Community, Technical and Junior Colleges—more than at any other community college.
With more than 40 clubs and organizations, Sinclair's campus life is active and vibrant.
Sinclair has established more than 100 transfer agreements to assist students in transferring to other colleges.
Out of 1,200 community colleges in the nation, Sinclair is one of 20 board member colleges of the League for Innovation in the Community College.


