FAQ's - Frequently Asked Questions about placement testing:
What is a placement test?
A placement test is simply a way for students to determine their current skills and knowledge level of a particular subject. This assessment helps in selecting the appropriate classes for the course of study.
Do I need to take a placement test?
Yes, if you cannot show proof of meeting the prerequisites and want to enroll in:
English courses
Math courses (except MAT 055)
Spanish language courses, (except SPA 101)
Nursing Program courses (NUR 110)
Emergency Medical Technician course (EMS 131)
Certain business communications courses
Certain accounting, biology, chemistry, and electronics courses
(please check the current class schedule to determine if placement or proficiency testing is required for the course you wish to enroll in)
What does CCC consider to be proof of meeting prerequisites *?
College transcripts showing that the course prerequisites have been satisfactorily (a grade of "C" or better) completed within the last five years, or placement testing scores taken at CCC within the last two years.
*This information has to be verified by the Office of Admissions or an advisor.
When can I come in for placement testing?
In most cases, placement testing is available throughout the semester. We recommend testing at least 2 weeks before enrolling.
Where do I go to take the tests? (See main page for maps of campus locations.)
All placement testing is computerized and administered in the Learning Enhancement Center, Building 1, room 106 at the Flagstaff Lone Tree Campus and in the Learning Support Center at the Flagstaff Fourth Street Campus.
How long will the tests take?
That will depend on the test and the person taking it, but you should allow a minimum of one hour for each test you take.
When do I get my test results?
Your test results will be available directly following completion of the test. You will be given a test report showing scores and placement. DO NOT lose this report - you must bring it to register!
What does the placement testing cost?
English, Math, Business and Spanish placement testing is free for students who plan to enroll at CCC and are taking the test for the first time in any given semester.
Do I need to bring anything with me to the test?
You will need to bring a current photo ID. Also, bring proof of payment for fees as listed above. Pencils and paper will be supplied for the math tests. No other materials (such as calculators, dictionaries, etc.) are allowed to be used while taking the tests.
Reasonable accommodations will be made for students with disabilities. Please contact Disability Resources at 928.226.4243 for information on testing accommodations.
Where should I park when I come to take the test?
Park anywhere in the student parking lot, then stop by the security office (near the entrance) to get a one-day parking permit. You will need to place this permit in your vehicle while you are taking the test.
Do I need to sign up for tests in advance?
No, just show up at the Learning Enhancement Center or Learning Support Center during scheduled testing hours and allow one hour for each test.
How many times can I take the test?
You can take placement tests two times prior to the semester of enrollment.
Does CCC accept tests from other colleges and universities?
CCC will accept offical results of the Nelson Denny Reading Exam and the Able & Asset test from other schools. The Nelson Denny test is a reading proficiency test that is required by the State of Arizona Health Services for Emergency Medical Services course attendance.
Note: CCC will accept a ninth grade reading proficiency level on the ABLE (Adult Basic Literacy Exam) or a minimum score of 41 or higher on the ASSET (Assessment of Skills for Successful Entry and Transfer) exam. Official test scores must be presented at time of registration.
Do other colleges and universities accept tests from CCC?
Contact the registration office at other schools for their testing policies about accepting any CCC placement test.
How long are the tests good for?
Two years for the English, Math and Business placement test, and one year for the Spanish test. The Nelson Denny Reading Proficiency test results never expire.
Is there anything that I can do to prepare for the tests in advance?
To prepare for the placement tests, visit:
http://www.collegeboard.com/student/testing/accuplacer/preparation-sample.html
http://www.studyguidezone.com/accuplacer.htm
(choose Accuplacer Practice off the menu), or click on these links for study guides with sample questions available for College Math, Beginning Algebra, Fractions, Decimals and Percents and Sentence Skills if you want to brush up on math or reading skills. To brush up on Spanish skills, visit our Spanish Language site for helpful links.