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 quarter. 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, and 12 questions in Elementary Algebra.

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 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 quarter students register the better the selection of classes.

What does it mean that ACCUPLACER is an
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 practise 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 year at no charge. Retesting is permitted one time each 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.




Did You Know?
Sinclair is one of only 12 Vanguard Learning Colleges in the U.S. and Canada, named for our "outstanding record of achievement in learning-centered education."
Sinclair awards on average $29 million in financial aid and scholarships each year.
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.
Sinclair faculty is consistently awarded for their teaching excellence.

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