Accuplacer Placement Tests

All new students must take MCTC’s placement tests before enrolling in classes unless an exemption is approved by an advisor. MCTC uses the standardized test called Accuplacer. There are tests in reading, writing and math.

Your scores determine the level of classes you can take. The placement tests help you choose classes that are not too easy or too difficult. They also qualify you for acceptance into technical and career programs.

Test scores are valid for three years except Math, which is valid for two years. Test scores must be valid on the first day of semester.

Please click here if you are looking for instructor arranged exams.

Prepare before you come to test!

Take these tests seriously, placement testing will determine your current academic levels and your eligibility to enroll in college level courses. Placing into college level course will expedite your road to graduation. Here’s everything you need to know about the tests and how to prepare so you do your best.

Where and when to test

• You have to apply to MCTC before you take the tests (so you have the ID number you need to take the tests) but you don’t have to wait until you’re accepted into the college.
• All testing is done in the MCTC Testing Center (T.2800).
• Testing is on a walk-in basis (no appointments).
• No testing is available when classes are canceled or the college is closed.
• These aren’t timed tests. Plan on taking around 2 hours.
• For general information about the placement tests, call 612-659-6262.

Testing Center hours for Feb. 7 - May 31

PLEASE NOTE: The Testing Center is closed on the following dates as well as on the dates when the entire college is closed: May 24 and May 27.

Testing options

• Answers to background questions determine if you will take the Accuplacer or Accuplacer ESL tests. Automatic branching occurs depending upon testing results.
• If you have been to college, have taken these tests before or are not seeking a degree, you may request a testing exemption.
• If you are applying to MCTC under Ability-to-Benefit, tell the Testing Center when you arrive so you will be given all the tests you need to qualify for financial aid.
• If you have a disability, you may request special arrangements for testing. Contact Disability Services before taking the assessment tests.

What to bring to the Testing Center

• A photo ID (you cannot test without one)
• Your MCTC student ID number (given when you apply to the college)
• No calculator
• No children (not allowed in the Testing Center and must be supervised at all times while at MCTC)

After taking the tests

• You receive your scores immediately.
• While you’re still at the Testing Center, make an appointment for an orientation-registration session. You can also sign up later online. At orientation, academic advisors will help you choose and register for classes based on your test scores.
• The Minneapolis Adult Literacy Program offers free Adult Basic Education (ABE) courses on the MCTC campus in ESL and math to help students brush up on basic skills before enrolling in credit courses at the college. If your test results show that you have qualified to enroll in these free classes, go to Adult Basic Education for information. You will attend an ABE orientation session to register for the classes.
• If you have any questions about your test scores, see the advisor in the Testing Center.

Retesting

• You can retake a test once during the current testing term (term 1 covers February through August, term 2 covers September through January). You can take a test only three times in 12 months.
• Once you have started a class, you cannot retest in that area.
• Before you retest, spend a few weeks preparing. A two-week waiting period is highly recommended.
• When you arrive at the Testing Center, tell the technician that you are retesting, and which tests you want to take again.