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ACCUPLACER - COMPUTERIZED PLACEMENT TESTING (CPT)
You will be taking the College Board Accuplacer test. This is a nationally recognized computerized test now used at all Massachusetts state colleges and universities to determine an entering student’s initial course placement. The test administrator will ask to see a picture ID so please be certain to bring one with you.
Computerized Testing
You will use a computer to take the test, but no prior computer experience is necessary. A test administrator will be available if you need help.
Written Essay
You will be asked to write an essay on a computer. This essay is very important because it is used to determine your English course placement.
What should I do if I have a disability and need some type of testing accommodations?
Contact the Disability Support Services office at 781-280-3630 before you schedule your test appointment to determine if you are eligible for testing accommodations. You will be asked to submit specific documentation of your disability prior to provision of test-taking accommodations.
How long does the test take?You will have up to one hour to complete the written essay portion of the test. The rest of the test is not timed, so you may take as long as you need. Most students need between two and three hours to complete the combined reading, writing, and math tests. The number of questions on each test is from 12-20. The total number of questions you receive depends on how you answer the questions. What can I do to prepare for the test?Because your test results will determine your initial course placements, it is important that your scores accurately reflect your ability. You might find it helpful to prepare for the test by learning more about the test format. To view sample questions and learn more about the test itself, you may access the ACCUPLACER internet site at http:www.collegeboard.com/student/testing/accuplacer* ELL TestingIf English is not your first language, you may be asked to return for further testing based upon the results of your reading and writing test. TEST RESULTSWhen you complete the computer portion of the placement test, your scores for reading, writing and math will appear on the screen. These are raw scores, which are based on the number of questions you answered correctly. Below the raw scores, you will see a field labeled PLACEMENT. In this field, you will find your course placements in reading, writing and math. The proctor will explain what these placements mean.
Interpreting the Test Results
There are three possible English placements: ENG 065 English Fundamentals, ENG 070/071 Basic Writing, and ENG 101 English Composition. Math placements may range from MAT 060 Fundamentals of Mathematics to MAT 291 Calculus for Science II. When the raw score on the reading test is below 68, a reading course placement of either ENG 050, ENG 055, or ENG 060 is also indicated.
In the sample below, the student has placed into
ENG 071 Basic Writing, MAT 080 Algebra II, and ENG 060 College Reading II.
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ENGL
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MATH
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READING COURSE (IF REQUIRED)
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ELL
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READING SCORE
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071
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080
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060
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*
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65 (raw score)
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Why placement testing?
Because we believe that college-level reading, writing, and math skills are essential to academic success, Middlesex requires students to take placement tests before enrolling in courses at the college. In order to participate in a specific academic program and/or enroll in credit classes, students must achieve a minimum score of 33 out of 120 on the reading portion of the test. The average score on the reading portion of the test is 71. Some students may need to complete preparatory coursework to build the academic competence necessary for college-level work.
Are all students required to test?
Students admitted to a program must take placement tests in reading, writing, and mathematics. All other students who are enrolling in their first college math or English course must take the appropriate test.
Exemption: If you are transferring credits in English or math from another college or have taken the MCC Placement Testing at an earlier date, you may qualify for an exemption from all or part of the test. Applicants to selective programs may be required to complete the college placement test.
When and where are the tests given?
The test is administered on both the Bedford and Lowell campuses by appointment. You may schedule your test by calling 1-800-818-3434 or 978-656-3200.
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