- Placement Testing
- Schedule a Test
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Tips For Testing
- Distance Testing Services
- Placement Testing Resources
- Math Test
- English Test
- Reading Comprehension Test
- Description of Testing Scores
Frequently Asked Questions
About the Placement Test
What is a Placement Test?
Prior to registering for courses, an entering student must demonstrate readiness to learn the course material successfully. That's why you are being asked to take the ACCUPLACER test at NCC. An ESL test is given to students when English is not their primary language. Please call 516.573.0172 for more information or email your questions to esltest@ncc.edu.
How Does it Work?
The Placement Test is called ACCUPLACER. You take the ACCUPLACER test on a computer. The essay part of the test has a one hour time limit. The reading and math tests are multiple choice, and are un-timed. The test instructions are easy to understand. A test administrator will always be present to help you. Although the test is administered on a computer, no previous experience with computers is necessary. However, it is advisable that you familiarize yourself with using a computer and keyboard.
Special testing is available for students with disabilities. If you have a learning, physical, psychological, hearing, visual and/or medical disability and need special assistance or accommodations please contact the Center for Students with Disabilities for more information.
Should I study for the test?
You cannot "pass" or "fail" the Placement Test. However, to make sure that test scores accurately represent your skill levels, you may wish to review basic concepts in reading, grammar, arithmetic and algebra before taking the Placement Test. You may also try reviewing a GED or SAT review book, available at local bookstores and public libraries, to refresh your basic skills.
For Accuplacer sample questions please click on the following link.
http://www.collegeboard.com/student/testing/accuplacer/
For more Sample Tests please visit our website!
How can I waive my Placement Test?
English Test- Official transcript(s) from an accredited college/university that indicates you have completed a 3-credit college-level English course equivalent to our ENG 101 (Composition I) with a grade of C or better.
- A Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution in the United States
- A score of 540 or higher on the writing exam portion of the SAT or a score of 24 or higher on the ACT.
Reading Comprehension
- A score of 550 or higher on the reading portion of the SAT or a score of 24 or higher on the ACT.
- See English test above.
Mathematics Test
- Official transcript(s) from an accredited college/university that indicates you have completed a 3-credit college-level mathematics course equivalent to our MAT 109 (Algebra & Trigonometry) with a grade of C or better.
- A score of 550 or higher on the math portion of the SAT or a score of 24 or higher on the ACT.
How do I schedule an appointment to take the test?
First you must submit an application for admission to the College, pay the $50.00 application fee, and a copy of your high school or college transcripts. Once all documents have been received you will be able to use our online placement testing registration process to schedule a placement test. You can visit www.ncc.edu/MyNCC to schedule a test if all documents have been received. Information about testing will arrive through your NCC email account. Please check your NCC email account frequently.
What happens after the Placement Test?
Placement Test scores serve as a beginning step in the advisement and registration process. After you complete your test, you will receive information indicating where and when you should go for your advisement and registration process.
What should I bring with me to the test?
- A government issued photo ID is required (ex. drivers license or U.S. passport). Please note a high school photo ID WILL ONLY be accepted with a birth certificate. Students WILL NOT be permitted to take the test without approved photo ID.
- calculator
- pen
Students who do not have a government issued photo ID can obtain a New York State non-driver photo ID card from the Office of Motor Vehicles. Please visit the links below for more information:
If English is not my first language, what placement test should I take?
An ESL test is conducted for students whose native language is not English. Please call 516.573.0172 for more information.
