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College Placement Test Guide

Start Strong in Math, English, and Reading – A Resource for Veterans, Adult Learners, and First-Time College Students

Whether you’re going back to school after years away or starting fresh, placement tests can feel intimidating—but they don’t have to be. This guide explains what they are, why they matter, how to prepare, and how to use your scores to make the most of your college journey.

What Are Placement Tests?

Placement tests are assessments used by colleges and universities to determine the appropriate starting level for your core academic courses, especially in math, reading, and writing. These tests are not about passing or failing—they help ensure you're placed in courses that match your current skills so you don’t waste time or money.

You might be placed into:

College-level courses (no prerequisites needed)
Developmental/remedial courses (to build foundational skills first)

Each school uses different assessments, but the most common types include:

ACCUPLACER – A popular adaptive test for reading, writing, and math
ALEKS – Often used for math placement, also adaptive
WritePlacer – A written essay portion of ACCUPLACER
Institutional exams – Tests created and scored by the college itself

Some schools also use ACT/SAT scores, high school GPA, or previous coursework to determine placement—especially for students who graduated recently.

Who Needs to Take One?

You may be required to take a placement test if:

You haven’t taken the ACT or SAT recently or didn’t meet score thresholds
You’re a transfer student without qualifying college-level credits in math or English
You’re a military-affiliated or adult learner returning after several years
You’re starting at a community college or open-admissions university
Your school requires one as part of its regular admissions or advising process

If you’ve already completed coursework in English or math at another accredited college, you may be exempt. Veterans may also qualify for exemptions if they have passed CLEP or DSST exams or have military education credits that align with college-level coursework.

What’s on the Test?

Each college customizes its placement testing process, but most tests include some or all of the following areas:

1. Math

You may be tested on:

Basic arithmetic (fractions, decimals, percentages)
Elementary algebra (equations, variables, expressions)
Geometry and data interpretation
College-level algebra and precalculus (depending on your background)

Tip: ALEKS and ACCUPLACER math tests are adaptive, so the difficulty adjusts based on your responses.

2. Reading

You’ll typically answer questions that assess your ability to:

Read and understand written passages
Identify main ideas and supporting details
Draw logical conclusions
Interpret vocabulary in context

3. Writing

This section may involve:

Multiple-choice grammar and sentence structure questions
A short essay (such as the WritePlacer), where you write a response to a prompt and are scored on clarity, organization, grammar, and critical thinking

Some schools also offer English as a Second Language (ESL) placement for multilingual students, covering grammar, listening, and writing in academic English.

When and Where Do You Take It?

Placement testing usually happens after you’ve been admitted but before enrolling in classes. You’ll receive information from your college about the format, location, and scheduling process. Some key things to know:

Timing: Some schools offer testing on a rolling basis, while others require it by a certain date before orientation or registration.
Format: Tests may be taken in person at a campus testing center or remotely online with virtual proctoring.
Cost: Many placement tests are free, but some schools may charge a small fee or limit the number of retakes.

If you haven’t heard anything after being admitted, reach out to your academic advising or testing center to ask about requirements and next steps.

What Your Scores Mean

Once you complete the test, your scores will be used to recommend the appropriate level of classes. In most cases, your advisor will walk you through what your scores mean during orientation or advising.

Your placement results might recommend:

College-level courses – You’re ready to start English Composition or College Algebra
Developmental courses – You’ll take a class to build skills first (usually not for credit, but necessary before moving forward)
Co-requisite courses – You take the college-level class alongside an extra support session

Can You Retake the Test?

Yes—many schools allow one or more retakes, especially if you prep between attempts. Some also offer refresher programs or bootcamps to help you bypass remedial courses.

Veterans, in particular, may benefit from asking if prior service, CLEP/DSST scores, or military coursework can be used in lieu of placement testing.

How to Prepare

Preparation can greatly improve your confidence and your placement, potentially saving you time and tuition. Even a short review of basic concepts can make a difference—especially if it’s been a while since you’ve taken academic tests.

What to Review:

Math: Practice basic arithmetic, algebra, and word problems. Review how to solve for x, simplify expressions, and work with fractions or percentages.
Reading: Focus on reading comprehension strategies. Try summarizing articles or identifying main points in short passages.
Writing: Review grammar rules, punctuation, sentence structure, and how to write a clear five-paragraph essay.

Recommended Free Resources:

Khan Academy: Excellent for brushing up on math and grammar.
EdReady: Offers personalized study plans and diagnostics.
ACCUPLACER Practice: Official sample questions and test guides.
YouTube: Search for "ACCUPLACER math practice" or "WritePlacer essay tips" for visual walkthroughs.

Preparation Tips:

Set aside 20–30 minutes a day for review during the week leading up to your test
Don’t cram the night before—sleep and rest are essential
Take a few full practice exams under timed conditions if possible

Smart Questions to Ask

Here are a few questions to bring to your academic advisor, testing office, or veteran support coordinator:

Do I need to take a placement test, or can I waive it with my ACT/SAT, military, or transfer credits?
What subjects are included in the placement test?
Is there a fee for taking or retaking it?
Can I prepare for it or take a practice version first?
If I don’t place into college-level classes, what are my options?
Is tutoring or a bootcamp available before I register for classes?

Advice for Veterans and Adult Learners

If you’re returning to college after serving in the military or working full-time, you’re not alone—and placement testing is a common hurdle that can be overcome with the right support.

Here’s what you should know:

Test anxiety is normal, especially if it’s been years since your last exam. Practice helps.
You’re allowed to ask questions—reach out to advisors, veteran centers, or adult learner offices.
CLEP and DSST exams are nationally recognized credit-by-exam options accepted at many schools. If you already took these or earned military credits (such as JST or ACE-evaluated courses), they might fulfill certain requirements.

You deserve credit for the life and work experience you bring—be sure to advocate for yourself.

Final Thoughts

Placement tests are simply the first step in your academic journey they don’t define you. With preparation, self-advocacy, and support, you can start strong and build the confidence you need for college success.

If you’re unsure about anything, ask. That’s what student services, veteran centers, and advisors are here for.