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Accuplacer Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Accuplacer?
The Accuplacer assesses your knowledge in math, reading, and writing. Over 1,500
institutions administer the Accuplacer as part of the enrollment process.
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How does the Accuplacer work?
The Accuplacer uses a multiple-choice format. You cannot leave a question out or come back to
a question at a later time. All questions must be answered in the order in
which they are given. You can change your answer to the immediate question at
any time however, once you click the black "confirm button" your answer is
final.
Again, the Accuplacer uses the latest
computer-adaptive technology. Questions are presented based on your individual
skill level. Your response to each question drives the difficulty level of the
next question. It’s important to give each question as much thought as you can
before selecting your final answer.
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What do I need to bring to the assessment?
You are only permitted scratch paper and a writing utensil and these will be provided for you.
No calculator is permitted. However, the Accuplacer does at times provide an electronic calculator for your use. Look for the calculator icon to appear in the upper right hand corner of your screen.
There’s no time limit on the Reading and Mathematics sections, so you can focus on doing your best to demonstrate your skills. You can give each question as much thought as you wish, and you can move at a comfortable pace. It’s important to give yourself enough time to do your best and complete the assessment because your results are the key factor in determining the courses you can take. Your results will be available immediately after you complete the assessment.
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Students with disabilities
If you have a disability or temporarily disabling condition that will prevent you from taking the assessment under standard conditions, please contact the Office of Accessibility at [email protected]. The staff will make arrangements for your assessment.
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Confidentiality/background information
You will be asked to enter some background information such as your name, address, birth date, etc.
Your assessment scores and background information will only be provided to the College Board, Minnesota State College Southeast, and to the State Department for state information requirements. This information may be used for counseling, advisement, and placement purposes and may be used to document whether or not you have met state requirements. The College Board may also use it for research and training purposes. Your assessment information will not be disclosed for any other purpose without your permission. If you have any questions about confidentiality, please talk with your proctor.
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Score reporting
When you have completed the assessment, the proctor will give you a printed report of your scores. There is no passing or failing score. Instead your score report will be used by your advisor during registration to help chose the courses best suited to your skills and needs.
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Tips to complete the Accuplacer
- Relax! The Accuplacer was designed to help you succeed in school. Your score helps you and your advisor determine which courses are most appropriate for your current level of knowledge and skills. Once you identify your academic strengths and needs, you can get the help you need to improve underdeveloped skills before they can interfere with your learning.
- You will be able to concentrate better on the assessment if you get plenty of rest and eat properly prior to taking the Accuplacer. You should also arrive a few minutes early so you can find the assessment area, bathrooms, etc., and gather your thoughts before the assessment begins.
- Pay careful attention to directions and be sure you understand the directions before you begin each section of the Accuplacer.
- If you do not know the answer to a question, try to eliminate one or more of the choices. Then pick one of the remaining choices.
- Textbooks, notebooks, dictionaries, calculators, or other paper of any kind (except scratch paper provided by the proctor for use with the mathematics assessment) are not allowed in the room. Further, anyone who gives or receives help during the assessment, or uses notes or books of any kind, will not be allowed to continue. Following the assessment, no materials or notes may be removed from the room.
- Remember to bring a picture ID (identification). On the day you are scheduled to take the Accuplacer, you will be required to show a picture ID prior to the assessment.
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How long are my scores valid?
Your reading comprehension score is valid for 5 years. Your math score is valid for 2 years.
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How do the scores affect my academic planning?
Be sure to take this assessment seriously. Your Accuplacer scores will place you in the appropriate level math and English courses. If you perform well on the Accuplacer you are likely to save a great deal of time and money on your education.
How do I schedule a remote/distance Accuplacer?
See the Accuplacer page for information on requesting a Remote Voucher. Once you have completed the voucher request, you will be emailed a link to schedule your Accuplacer. You will have options for completing the assessment on the Red Wing or Winona campus, as well as completing the assessment online, via Zoom.
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