Assessment Center

Why Do Placement Testing?

Student success is a high priority at LCC.  We use a placement testing system to ensure that the student is prepared for the content of any course.  These placement tests will give your students a level in reading, writing, and math.  The vast majority of LCC courses require prerequisite levels in order to enroll.

FAQ for Group Placement Testing at LCC

Is there a cost for placement testing?

There is no cost for a LCC student taking placement tests.

Are there a maximum number of students I can bring at one time for testing?

We can accommodate groups as large as 30 students.

Will the Assessment Center arrange transportation for my students?

Organizations are responsible for arranging transportation to and from our campus.

What will my students need to do to be able to test?

Before testing the student must have applied to LCC.  This ensures that they are set up in the student system.  All of the students in the group must have applied BEFORE the day of the testing session.  For more information and to apply online visit: www.lcc.edu.

Are any of my students able to waive these tests?

AP, ACT, and SAT test scores may waive some or all of these tests.  For more information on the waiver process, please go to: www.lcc.edu/advising/waivers.aspx

Are there any study guides to prepare for these tests?

Attached is a packet that includes a brief description of each test along with sample questions.  If you would like any additional sample questions, they can be found on our website at: www.lcc.edu/assessment/on_campus/cpt.aspx

What will they need to bring with them on the day of the test?

Each student must bring a picture id with them to be able to test.  No other items are necessary, the Assessment Center will provide scrap paper and a pencil.

Can they use a calculator for the math test?

Certain questions on the math tests allow the use of a “pop up” calculator that the student can access by clicking on an icon in the test window.  They will not be able to use their own calculator.

How long will these tests take?

There are no time limits for these tests.  In general, students will take approximately 30 to 45 minutes per test.  The number of tests a student will take may vary, please plan your time accordingly.

How many tests are there?

New students are encouraged to take all three of our tests; they cover reading, writing, and math.  The assessment tests are adaptive which means that each test can branch to a new test, depending on the score of the first test.  So, it may be the case that a student will take up to two tests for reading, writing, or math

What should my students expect when they sit down to test?

Each test is computerized and multiple choice.  After the completion of one test, they will automatically move on to the next.  Before they start their test they will be informed that no materials are allowed, their cell phones must be turned off, and there should be no talking. While testing they will be monitored to ensure that they are following those guidelines. There are no time limits to these tests and your students should be encouraged to take their time and read through each question carefully.

The primary language of some of my students is not English, will they take different tests?

Before they begin their tests, all students will be prompted to answer the question “Is English your primary language?.”  If a student answers “no,” they will begin with the LOEP (Levels of English Proficiency) tests.  Their score on those tests will determine if they take the tests to receive college ready levels.  If they do not score high enough to branch up, they will take two additional tests (LOEP Language Usage and LOEP Listening) and receive an average of their scores on the four tests.  The student should then see an advisor to determine which classes their average will allow them to take.  All students, regardless of primary language, will take the same math tests.

What levels are considered college ready, “passing?”

These tests are not considered pass/fail.  Although the goal of most new students is to attain “College Ready” levels, there are appropriate LCC courses for each placement level.  College Ready levels enable students to start in courses that will gain credit towards the core requirements of the college.  These levels are:

Reading:  Level 5         Writing: Level 6           Math: Level 5

When will my students receive their test results?

The tests are graded and scored automatically after they are finished testing.  The student will receive a score sheet with their raw score and corresponding level.  Their levels will be entered into the student system as soon as possible, no later than the end of the day of their test.

What if I have students who are unable to finish their tests before we have to leave?

Any student who is unable to finish their test will have 10 days to come back and complete their assessment.  Their test will be saved online and they will be able to pick up right where they left off.

What are my students’ next steps after testing?

No matter what levels the student attains, it is always important to attend an orientation or speak with an advisor to ensure that they enroll in the correct classes for their specific educational path.

If your student would like to try and improve their test score in any area, each of the placement tests can be attempted twice in a 365 day period.

Is there a way for my students to look up their test scores after they test?

Yes, please follow the link at the bottom of the Assessment Center homepage (www.lcc.edu/assessment) labeled “How to check your placement scores and levels.”