Placement Test FAQ

Who needs to take placement tests?
Placement testing is required of all curricular students who have selected a degree or certificate that requires English and math courses. Non-curricular students planning to take math or English must also take the necessary placement tests prior to registration. Students transferring into ESCC who submit an official transcript to the Admissions Office may request to have their placement testing waived if they have completed the required prerequisite courses in English and math with a grade of “C” or better.  

Why are placement tests necessary?
Placement testing provides your counselor and faculty advisor with information regarding your academic strengths and weaknesses so that an appropriate educational program may be designed for you. Remedial course work is available if required. 

How are they scheduled?
Placement tests should be scheduled well in advance of the semester you are planning to enroll and may be scheduled at your convenience by contacting ESCC’s Lead Counselor, Jody Baggett, by phone at 789-1730 or by email at jbaggett@es.vccs.edu 

What do I need to bring to the testing session?
On the day of testing, you must bring photo identification with your social security number. Bringing a regular or scientific calculator for use on the mathematics portion of the test is strongly advised. Scratch paper and pencils will be provided. 

What if I have never used a computer?
No prior computer skills are necessary to take the placement test; however, since it is a computer-based test, basic computer skills are helpful and may decrease the time you require to complete the test battery. Practice in navigating the test and in marking your answers is included at the beginning of each testing session. The test administrator will monitor your test session and will assist should you have any difficulties completing your testing.

How do I arrange for special accommodations?
Accommodations for students with documented disabilities should be pre-arranged with the testing coordinator when testing is scheduled. 

Are study materials available for the placement testing?
It is not necessary to study for the placement testing as its purpose is to measure your current readiness for college-level coursework and to guide your selection of courses to promote academic success.  Sample Study Questions are provided on this site for your convenience.