Placement test is an assessment used to determine the appropriate starting course level for a student in subjects such as mathematics, writing, or a world language.
How it works
The student takes the test before or during orientation. The score is matched to the institution’s placement table. Registration is then opened for the appropriate course level. A student who places into a developmental course must complete it (or an approved co-requisite pathway) before enrolling in the college-level course. Retesting policies vary and are usually limited.
Example: an incoming online student scores below the college-level threshold on a math placement test and is required to enroll in a co-requisite support section alongside the gateway math course. Successful completion of both satisfies the math requirement; the placement test itself confers no credits.
How it differs
Credit by examination awards actual credits and can satisfy degree requirements. A prerequisite is a completed course, not a placement score. An admissions test (such as a graduate entrance exam) affects program entry, not course-level placement inside a program.
Common errors
Expecting placement-test scores to generate degree credit. Assuming a high-school course automatically satisfies placement without a score or transcript evaluation. Retaking a placement test repeatedly in hopes of a higher score when policy limits attempts.
References
- 1. Institutional placement-testing policiesCourse-level assignment
- 2. Common developmental-education practicesUse of placement scores
Placement test is an assessment used to determine the appropriate starting course level for a student in subjects such as mathematics, writing, or a world language.