Placement Assessment

What is Placement Assessment and why is it important?

Placement assessment determines your placement in either college-level or developmental English and Math classes.

All degree-seeking students are assessed for placement before registering for credit courses according to the one of the following criteria:

• Unofficial or official college transcripts
• Unofficial or official high school transcripts (including home school evaluations)
• ACT, SAT, or AP exam score reports
• Self-reported high school transcript information (if high school graduation is in the last five years
• Unofficial or official GED transcript
• Placement testing

What is a placement test and why is it so important?

The ACCUPLACER® placement test at RACC is a computerized test, consisting of Writing, Reading, and several Mathematics sections. The tests will measure your current knowledge and skills so that you can determine which course levels are most appropriate for you.

Do I have to take a placement test?

You don’t have to take a placement test if you meet these conditions.

If I have to take a placement test, what do I need to do first?

You must complete an online admissions application if you have not taken a class at RACC in the last year or applied within the last year. You also need to schedule a placement test by calling 610-372-4721, ext. 5104 or emailing jzukowski@racc.edu, or scheduling a time online here.

Can I take the placement test from home?

If you have a photo ID and a computer with a webcam that isn’t a Chromebook you can take the test from home. You will also need a computer with a stable internet connection. To receive a voucher to take a placement test remotely, contact us at 610-372-4721, ext. 5104 or send an email to jzukowski@racc.edu.
There is a $28 fee for this remote proctoring service.

I have a busy schedule. Can I take the placement test from home on a night or weekend?

Yes. Proctors at our partner company, Examity work 24/7. So you can schedule the placement test at a time that’s convenient for you.

What do I do if I have to take the placement test in person?

RACC provides in-person placement testing during office hours. To schedule an in-person placement test, please contact 610-372-4721, ext. 5104 or jzukowski@racc.edu.

What do I need if I’m taking a placement test at RACC?

You need to bring a photo ID. Acceptable Forms of Photo ID are:

• A current driver’s license
• A current state approved ID
• A current college ID
• A current state or Federal ID card
• A current military ID
• A current passport
• A current tribal ID card
• A current naturalization card or certificate of citizenship
• High School ID – can only be used if student is still enrolled in high school or is testing within 3 months following graduation. It must include student’s name a recognizable photograph.

Where do I take a placement test in person at RACC?

On the day of your test, report to the Welcome Center in Berks Hall, Room B-001, with a valid photo ID.

How do I study for my placement test?

This page provides an overview of the placement and sample practice questions.

Why is it important to study for my placement test?

It is very important that you prepare for the placement tests in advance so that you perform at your best and do not have to spend time and tuition on classes below your actual competency level. Studies indicate that students who take their time with the placement test, score higher and have fewer developmental and other courses to complete. This will save you both time and money.

How long will it take for me to finish a placement test?

Plan on two to two and a half hours to complete the placement test if you are taking all three parts. However, the only part of the test that’s timed is the writing portion where you have 50 minutes. The reading and math parts of the test are not timed.

Can I take the placement test in person at another college?

You may take RACC’s placement test at another college or university that is an ACCUPLACER testing location. Your test scores will be automatically submitted to RACC upon completion and RACC does not charge a fee for this service. You will need to contact RACC in order to obtain a testing voucher before scheduling your test at an alternate location. Some schools might charge a small proctoring fee for this service. For more information about these remote testing options, call 610-372-4721, ext. 5104 or email jzukowski@racc.edu.

Students with Disabilities

Prior to scheduling your placement test, students with a disability should schedule an appointment with Accessibility Services to request appropriate accommodations. Appointments with Accessibility Services can be made by calling 610-607-6245.