ESL Placement Test - Frequently Asked Questions

The ACCUPLACER is a computer based test with 3 sections of 20 questions each. This test assesses your current English skills and will place you in one of the following: CE/ESL courses (Level 1); college-level ESL courses (Level 2-5); or college credit English courses (Level 6 or 7).

Students who received a score of 300 and above on the ACCUPLACER will be required to write an essay. The essay must be written on the same day after completing the ACCUPLACER. You will be given a choice to write about one of two topics. You will be given 1 hour to write a 1 page essay. The essay is graded by an authorized instructor from the English Department. For these students the essay will be the determining factor in placing students in college-level ESL or English classes.

Students who receive scores of 0 - 299 are automatically placed into CE/ESL Level 1 or ESL/ENG Levels 2 - 3. These students are not required to write an essay.

Is there a way I can prepare for the ESL/ACCUPLACER Test?

Yes. Please click on the following link to review sample questions similar to ones you will see on the test. ESL/ACCUPLACER Sample Test

Is there a time limit for the ESL/ACCUPLACER test?

No. Please take as much time as you need, but you must start a placement test at least 3 hours prior to the Testing Center's closing time.

Can I use a dictionary for this test?

No. The use of a dictionary and other resources is not allowed for the ACCUPLACER test.

If I do not place into a college level course, when can I retake this exam?

The ACCUPLACER test may be repeated after 6 months only if a student does not place into a college-level course. If a student is currently enrolled in a Continuing Education (CE) ESL class, a permission slip from the CE/ESL Department is required to retake the ACCUPLACER prior to finishing the class or prior to the 6 month waiting period.

If I do place into a college-level course, but I would like to retake the exam, how long do I have to wait before I retest?

Students who place into a college-level course (Level 2 - 7), and have not taken an ESL/English class within a year, may retake the test after 1 year. If a student takes a college-level ESL/English class, the student must wait 1 full year after completing the class before taking the ACCUPLACER test again.