accuplacer essay score

What Are Accuplacer Test Scores?

How are accuplacer tests scored, what is a good accuplacer score, frequently asked questions, final thoughts, understanding the accuplacer test score.

Updated May 16, 2024

Administered at college and university level, the Accuplacer test is used by some educational institutions to determine how prepared a student is for the next steps in their academic career.

This guide looks specifically at Accuplacer test scores – how they are awarded and what they mean – so you can better understand how your Accuplacer score might impact your learning experience.

Accuplacer test scores are a set of metrics that evaluate a student's knowledge and skills in specific subject areas including reading, writing and math.

Try an Accuplacer Test on TestHQ

These test scores serve two main purposes:

• Course placement: Accuplacer test scores help educational institutions match students with appropriate courses based on their skills in core subjects.
• Academic preparedness: They also provide insights into a student's readiness for college-level coursework, helping to identify areas where they might require additional support or remedial instruction.

If you’re asked to take one or more Accuplacers tests, you’ll receive a score for each individual assessment.

How these are presented, and how you should interpret them, will depend on the test in question.

Accuplacer tests in reading, writing, math and English as a second language (ESL) use a computer adaptive system.

This means that the difficulty of each question presented to a test taker adapts based on their previous answer.

The scoring weight of each question varies based on its difficulty level.

Correct answers to more challenging questions have a higher score increment, whereas easier questions have a lower score increment. There is no negative marking for incorrect answers.

The idea behind this system is that your final Accuplacer score gives an accurate picture of your optimum skill level.

The WritePlacer test uses a different scoring system that assesses a test-taker's essay writing skills.

It focuses on evaluating specific aspects of language and composition, with scoring criteria including:

• Organization and Structure
• Purpose and Focus
• Development and Support
• Sentence Variety and Style
• Mechanical Conventions
• Critical Thinking

Accuplacer test scores for WritePlacer essays are awarded by a marking panel appointed by the relevant college or university.

How to Interpret Your Accuplacer Test Scores

All of the computer adaptive tests use a score range of 200 to 300, within which sit five separate score bands:

• 236 and below
• 276 and above

It’s worth noting that there are no Accuplacer test scores percentiles available, so it is impossible to know how many students have ever achieved certain scores.

For each test there is also a corresponding Scores Insight™ statement. These statements explain what a student scoring within a certain band is able to do in that particular subject.

To illustrate this, you’ll find a condensed version of two of the score statements below – one for reading scores and one for Accuplacer math scores.

Accuplacer Reading Scores

Score range 236 and below – foundational reading skills.

• Demonstrating essential skills and knowledge needed for college and career readiness

Score Range 237 to 249 – Basic Reading Comprehension

• The ability to locate information and make simple inferences in somewhat to moderately challenging texts
• Identifying the main purpose of a text or paragraph
• Integrating basic information from multiple texts on the same topic
• Determining the meaning of common words or phrases from context

Score Range 250 to 262 – Intermediate Reading Comprehension

• Understanding subtly stated information and implicit central ideas in moderately challenging texts
• Making connections between multiple texts on the same topic
• Interpreting high-utility academic words or phrases from context

Score Range 263 to 275 – Advanced Reading Comprehension

• Analyzing the impact of word choice on meaning and tone in moderately-to-complex texts
• Identifying subtle points of view or perspectives in a text
• Making complex connections between multiple texts on the same topic
• Determining the meaning of relatively uncommon academic words or moderately challenging figurative expressions in context

Score Range 276 and Above – Expert Reading Comprehension

• Recognizing complex functions of text parts in highly complex texts
• Analyzing complex central claims and author reasoning
• Making subtle assessments of an author's use of evidence in complex-to-highly complex texts

If you want 12-month access to all the practice resources for this test, our partner TestHQ offers a Premium Package . Family Membership gives you access to all the TestHQ resources for the next 12 months. You will also get two separate accounts, which can be very helpful if you have two children preparing for their tests.

Get a Premium Package with 12-Month Access

Accuplacer Math Scores – Arithmetic

Score range 236 and below – fundamental arithmetic skills.

• Proficiency in basic operations (adding, subtracting, multiplying, and dividing) with whole numbers
• Recognizing decimal values between whole numbers
• Converting fractions into decimals
• Arranging positive real numbers, whether they are whole numbers or decimals, from smallest to largest

Score Range 237 to 249 – Intermediate Arithmetic Skills

• Competence in adding, subtracting, and multiplying decimals
• Skill in adding and subtracting fractions, including mixed numbers
• Applying operations with whole numbers and decimals to solve simple applied problems

Score Range 250 to 262 – Advanced Arithmetic Skills

• Using operations with whole numbers and decimals to tackle multistep applied problems
• Solving single-step problems with fractions through addition, subtraction, and multiplication
• Determining percentages of given numbers

Score Range 263 to 275 – Proficient Arithmetic Skills

• Expertly applying the order of operations with decimals and whole numbers
• Applying operations to solve multi step applied problems involving fractions
• Solving single-step applied problems involving percentages
• Handling the conversion of fractions to decimals and rounding them to specific values

Score Range 276 and Above – Advanced Arithmetic Proficiency

• Mastery of the order of operations with fractions, including mixed numbers and improper fractions
• Adept at solving multistep applied problems involving percentages
• Skillful at arranging numerical expressions based on their computational results

Accuplacer math scores for quantitative reasoning, algebra, and statistics, and advanced algebra and functions also have a corresponding score statement, as does the Accuplacer writing test.

To get a better understanding of the skills under evaluation, read the Scores Insight™ statements provided by Accuplacer .

Accuplacer ESL test scores are delivered in the same way, but using a scale from 20 to 120.

Your WritePlacer essay will receive a score between one and eight, depending on the level of skill demonstrated against the scoring criteria.

Accuplacer TSI Scores

Please note that there is a slightly different scoring system if you take your Accuplacer tests in the state of Texas.

Here the tests are known as the Texas Success Initiative assessment , or the TSI assessment, which is why you may hear your results in Texas referred to as your Accuplacer TSI scores.

The score ranges here are much higher, and the state has laid down benchmark score bands that indicate a student has the relevant skills to progress to college level education.

• Math – 350 to 390
• Reading – 351 to 390
• Writing – 340 to 390

A "good" Accuplacer score can vary depending on your specific educational or career goals and the institution you're applying to.

Because the test is used to determine the appropriate level of coursework for students advancing to college education, good Accuplacer scores are those that place you in the courses that align with your desired program of study.

Different institutions have varying score cutoffs for course placement – meaning Accuplacer test scores considered acceptable by one institution may not get you onto a similar course elsewhere.

If you're unsure about Accuplacer passing scores for your specific situation, it's a good idea to consult with an academic advisor or admissions counselor at the institution you're interested in to get personalized guidance.

What are good Accuplacer scores?

Good Accuplacer scores vary depending on the institution and the test you're taking.

In general, a good score indicates a solid level of proficiency in the tested subject. For reading, writing and math tests, scores in the range of 237 to 249 indicate intermediate skill, so are what you might call average Accuplacer scores.

What is a good score on the Accuplacer math test?

Accuplacer math scores range from 200 to 300, with five separate scoring bands between these figures.

Scores of 236 and below indicate a basic skill level, while those of 276 and above show a student to be highly proficient.

What is the highest Accuplacer score?

The highest Accuplacer test scores on the computer adaptive tests would be 300. For the WritePlacer test, the highest score would be 8.

As there are no Accuplacer test scores percentiles available, it is impossible to know how many students have ever achieved close to these scores.

What is a good score on the Accuplacer writing test?

For the computer adaptive Accuplacer writing test, a good score would be one that shows a relatively high level of proficiency in the English language.

For example, scores in the range of 250 to 262 show a student is capable of interpreting moderately challenging texts and can use language effectively.

What do my Accuplacer test scores mean?

Your Accuplacer test scores reflect your proficiency in specific subject areas, such as reading, writing and math.

The interpretation of your scores varies by institution, but in general, higher scores indicate a higher level of proficiency and readiness for college-level coursework.

How do I get my Accuplacer test scores?

You can access your Accuplacer test scores as soon as you finish your test by asking the test center staff to print them out for you. Your score report will also be emailed to you.

Any problems, visit the Accuplacer student portal, where you can request your test results again.

How can I improve my Accuplacer scores?

To improve your Accuplacer score, use study guides and practice tests provided by the official Accuplacer website or other reputable sources like TestHQ .

Additionally, consider seeking assistance or tutoring if needed, especially in areas where you struggle.

Your Accuplacer test scores reflect how ready you are to tackle the challenges of higher education.

They help colleges and universities decide which courses are appropriate for your skill level and identify any areas where you may need additional support.

There is no specific pass or fail with the Accuplacer tests – it’s all about understanding where you currently stand and working towards improvement. Your scores are not a judgment but rather a starting point for your educational journey.

Ultimately, the goal should be to achieve a score that accurately reflects your skills and knowledge, allowing you to succeed in your chosen program or course of study.

You might also be interested in these other PRT articles:

WritePlacer Essay Guide

During the ACCUPLACER test, you will have to take the WritePlacer exam, which requires you to write an essay. Your essay will be evaluated based on the following criteria:

• Purpose and focus
• Organization and structure
• Development and support
• Sentence variety and style
• Mechanical Conventions
• Critical thinking

You will have 1 hour to plan, write, and proofread this essay.

Your Accuplacer essay is only required to be 300–600 words in length, so a simple 5 paragraph essay will be more than sufficient. Scores on WritePlacer range from 1 to 8, with 8 being the highest.

An essay that is too short to be evaluated, written on a topic other than the one presented, or written in a language other than English will be given a score of zero.

The biggest differences between a low-scoring and a high-scoring essay is LENGTH and CLARITY. Aim to achieve multiple paragraphs with good organization, and this essay should be fairly easy!

WritePlacer Tips and Strategies

• This essay DOES NOT require you to have any outside knowledge. The essay will be based off a provided prompt meant to spark your creativity. Everything you need to answer the question will be part of the prompt!
• You must take a clear stance. Unlike real life where most of our opinions are a mix of gray, the ACCUPLACER essay requires you to take a strong stance on the issue provided in the prompt. Essays that don’t take a clear stance will score low on the rubric.
• Your stance doesn’t affect your score. The test is not steering you to one side of the argument or another. The side you choose doesn’t matter; what matters is how well you craft your argument.
• Don’t change your stance. Part of taking a clear stance means following it through to the end of the response. Even if you are struggling with the stance you chose, work your way to the end.
• Be specific in your argument. As long as you can argue logically that it supports your thesis, no example is “too” specific. One of the biggest issues that writers have with the WritePlacer exam is being too vague and general. If you are using an example from personal experience, using some names, dates, places, and other concrete details can go a long way. Try to avoid hypothetical examples as well.
• Incorporate a counter-argument. While you need to take a clear stance, that doesn’t mean you have to ignore the other side of the argument. The best writers take the opposing side into account before criticizing it and effectively securing their stance as the correct one. This is a great tool to use in your conclusion, although many students include it in an additional body paragraph.
• Keep the introduction and conclusion brief . Don’t take forever to get to the topic. The function of an introductory paragraph is to introduce the reader to the topic in the prompt, and then to clearly and forcefully state your position on it. This should be done in no more than 3–4 sentences. In the conclusion, 1–2 sentences are enough to reiterate your position and leave the essay with a closing idea. Save the bulk of your writing-time for your body paragraphs!
• Use Transition Words . Scroll down to the bottom of this article to see a good list of common transition words. Be sure to use them as you move between paragraphs! Always make sure the reader will understand why you are moving from one paragraph to the next paragraph!

WritePlacer Template

This is a sample outline for the ACCUPLACER Essay. Notice we are aiming for 5 paragraphs total. You may opt for a shorter 4 paragraph version if 5 paragraphs are too many for you to write, but aim for 5 paragraphs if you can. If you have trouble completing 5 paragraphs, see if you can streamline your body paragraphs. They can often be bloated with unnecessary wordiness. Keep the introduction and the conclusion short and sweet.

Paragraph 1 — Introduction (3–4 sentences)

You will want to begin your essay with one of the following:

• a generalization about the topic,
• a quotation,
• a short anecdote to set-up the correctness of your position,
• a historical framework,
• or a piece of news illustrating the contemporariness of the issue.

Admit to the complexity of the issue. You have two goals in the beginning part of the essay: to introduce the  topic , and to express your  opinion  on it. Be sure to place your thesis as the final sentence in your introduction.

Paragraph 2 — First Example (4–6 sentences)

Start with your most-powerful or relevant example. Remember that you won’t have any material to work from, so it’s OK that you don’t have direct quotes, statistics, or other incredibly specific details in your examples. However, be as specific as you can be about how your example supports your position. Anything can be an example, but choose ONE only for each paragraph. It needs to be something you are knowledgeable about and also something that you believe strongly supports your thesis. You have three tasks in your body paragraphs:

• Introduce your example (history, science, politics, business, entertainment, pop culture, current events, personal experience, etc).
• Describe your example as specifically as you can (do not make up fact/statistics; readers can usually tell when you’re making something up).
• Explain how it fully supports your thesis. This is the most important step and should be your main focus. This is where you prove your point.

You should be spending the majority of your body paragraph accomplishing the third step:  explaining how it fully supports your thesis . Aim to convince the reader through very concrete details how your position on the issue is correct.

Paragraph 3 — Second Example (4–6 sentences)

Use a transition phrase to introduce the second example, and then follow the same format as the previous paragraph with your new example. It’s OK to mention your first example, but the main focus of your paragraph should be on the new example, and, most importantly, how the new example proves your thesis.

Paragraph 4 — Third Example (4–6 sentences)

Use another transition phrase to introduce your third example. Then, follow the same format as the previous two paragraphs. Again, make sure the focus of your paragraph is on your new example and how it proves your thesis.

Paragraph 5 —  Conclusion (2–4 sentences)

Many writers struggle with the conclusion. A good way to end your essay is with a counter-argument. Introduce an opposing opinion, explain it in general terms, then refute it. Finish the paragraph by reinforcing the correctness of your own stance. Here’s how it might look:

Despite the fact that                     , some people will argue that                     . However,                     (refute the opposing viewpoint as wrong and/or shortsighted) . Instead,                     (discuss how your viewpoint is more valid than the viewpoint of the opposition ). Therefore,                     (leave the reader thinking about how correct your stance is) .

ACCUPLACER Essay Practice

Be sure to write at least 2 sample essays before your exam. This will help you sharpen your skills and ensure that you are comfortable with the format. Have a teacher, friend, or mentor read through your exam and give you feedback. Use the links below to find our 2 practice ACCUPLACER essay prompts. As you write your practice essays try to follow the above template to the best of your ability:

Practice Essay 1

Practice Essay 2

Transition Words List

Agreement Words

• in the first place
• not only … but also
• as a matter of fact
• in like manner
• in addition
• coupled with
• in the same fashion / way
• first, second, third
• in the light of

Opposition Words

• in contrast
• different from
• of course …, but
• on the other hand
• on the contrary
• at the same time
• in spite of
• (and) still

Causation Words

• in the event that
• for the purpose of
• with this intention
• with this in mind
• in the hope that
• in order to
• … then

Example Words

• in other words
• to put it differently
• for one thing
• as an illustration
• in this case
• for this reason
• to put it another way
• that is to say
• with attention to

More Resources

We have plenty of additional resources to help you with your Accuplacer test prep. Check out both of our practice essays for more WritePlacer practice, or head over to our home page for a full-length practice test.

Accuplacer Practice Test

What Are the Scores for the ACCUPLACER Test?

What are good accuplacer scores, how to improve your accuplacer score, frequently asked questions, final thoughts, understanding your accuplacer test score 2024.

Updated May 15, 2024

The ACCUPLACER test is a widely used computer-based standardized assessment tool used by colleges and universities in the US.

The test helps educational institutions ensure that students are placed in courses that align with their skill levels.

This article looks at the scoring of each ACCUPLACER test in more detail. You will learn what the scores show and what is deemed a good score.

You will also get tips on improving your ACCUPLACER score should you be asked to take an ACCUPLACER test.

The ACCUPLACER test comprises different sections that assess specific skills. The score for each test determines an individual's proficiency in each academic area.

Prepare for the ACCUPLACER Test with TestHQ

The ACCUPLACER Math, Reading and Writing Test

The ACCUPLACER scores for the math , reading, and writing sections are between 200 and 300 for each section.

The ACCUPLACER ESL Test (English as a Second Language)

The ACCUPLACER ESL test is designed for non-native English speakers. This test evaluates an individual's proficiency in using the English language .

The ACCUPLACER ESL test scores range from 20 to 120. A higher score indicates a higher English language proficiency level.

Those who attain a lower score may need more significant support in developing their language skills, reading and sentences, or listening skills.

The WritePlacer Essay ACCUPLACER Test

The WritePlacer Essay assesses a student's writing skill . The ACCUPLACER scores for this test are given as a score of between one and eight.

A higher ACCUPLACER score indicates stronger writing abilities. Those attaining scores below four may need additional support when writing.

WritePlacer ESL Test

The WritePlacer ESL assesses the writing abilities of non-native English speakers . Scoring for this section ranges from one to six.

As with the standard WritePlacer Essay, higher scores in this section indicate an individual has better writing skills in the context of English as a Second Language.

What Do the Different ACCUPLACER Test Scores Show?

The ACCUPLACER test scoring can be further broken down into detailed score bands for each section, including Math, Reading, and Writing .

These score bands depict the test-taker's proficiency in the skill being assessed.

The scores help educational institutions decide on an individual's course placement and the need for additional support or coursework.

ACCUPLACER Scores for the ACCUPLACER Math, Reading and Writing Test

Below is an explanation of the ACCUPLACER Math, Reading, and Writing test scores. These brackets are used in the skills insight statement for each element in the ACCUPLACER Math, Reading and Writing test.

This enables individuals to understand their ACCUPLACER test scores.

Score Band 200 to 236 – This score band indicates a student has significant knowledge gaps or skill deficiencies in the assessed subject. These students need additional support in the subject before enrolling in college-level classes.

Score Band 237 to 249 – A score of 237 to 249 indicates a student has basic skills but would benefit from additional support and learning before taking higher-level courses.

Score Band 250 to 262 – Students who score with this band have a good understanding of the assessed subject. They are well-prepared for college-level courses in that subject. To strengthen skills, they can take additional coursework or further learning.

Score Band 263 to 275 – A score in this range indicates a student has a high level of proficiency in the subject assessed. Good ACCUPLACER scores, such as those above 263, show that students can handle college-level coursework without needing further learning or support.

Score Band 276 to 300 – Those attaining an ACCUPLACER score between 276 and 300 have an excellent understanding of the subject matter. They will be capable of dealing with college-level courses in the assessed subject.

In the same way that score bands indicate the degree of proficiency for the ACCUPLACER Math, Reading, and Writing tests, the same format exists for the ACCUPLACER WritePlacer ESL tests.

ACCUPLACER Test Scores for the WritePlacer ESL Assessment

For the ACCUPLACER WritePlacer ESL test, the scores explanations from one to six are:

Score of One – Candidates scoring one in the test have little mastery of essay writing in English. This includes poor punctuation, short sentences, and the simple expression of ideas when drafting the essay. Students need additional support and guidance before enrolling in a college-level course.

Score of Two – A score of two on the test indicates students have limited competency in essay writing in English. These students have some development of ideas in an essay with frequent errors in grammar, spelling, and punctuation.

Score of Three – Students scoring three on the ESL writing test have emerging competence in essay writing in English. These students can use paragraphs and more complex vocabulary but may have grammatical errors and inconsistent use of verb tenses.

Score of Four – A score of four on the test indicates a student has moderate competence in English essay writing. Students can use grammar, punctuation, and a thought-through writing strategy.

Score of Five – Those scoring five on the ACCUPLACER ESL writing test can consistently use the English language and employ a wide range of vocabulary. Students use writing strategies, and while there may be some errors, these do not interfere with the key messages.

Score of Six – Students scoring a six on the test have substantial control of the English language when using this in essay writing. Their writing demonstrates thought-through ideas, good sentence structure, and ideas expressed engagingly.

If you want 12-month access to all the practice resources for this test, our partner TestHQ offers a Premium Package . Family Membership gives you access to all the TestPrep-Online resources for the next 12 months. You will also get two separate accounts, which can be very helpful if you have two children preparing for their tests.

Get a Premium Membership with 12-Month Access

ACCUPLACER scores are not categorized as being good or bad. The ACCUPLACER tests are the those that indicate a student's skills in various subjects such as mathematics, reading, and writing.

As the test aims to determine readiness for college-level coursework and place students in appropriate courses based on their skill level, you cannot fail an ACCUPLACER test.

Even though you don’t need certain ACCUPLACER scores to pass, it is worth remembering that each educational institution will set its own standards for ACCUPLACER scores. Researching your preferred institution's score requirements is essential to knowing the expectations required for students.

In understanding what is expected of you as a student, you can focus efforts on the specific program or course you want to enter.

Improving your ACCUPLACER score is essential to being placed into higher-level college courses.

Here are some tips to help you improve your ACCUPLACER score:

Step 1 . Understand the ACCUPLACER Score System

Familiarize yourself with the scoring system of the ACCUPLACER test. Know the score requirements of the specific institution or program you're interested in.

The skill insight brackets, which provide details about the types of questions and skills needed for each score range, can help understand your competence level and areas you need to work on.

Step 2 . Practice Tests

Use practice tests and study materials to help set your expectations.

These resources help familiarize you with the style, format, and question types. You can find practice tests at TestHQ .

Practice tests also help to identify any subject areas that you struggle with. Creating a study plan to focus on the areas where you need improvement helps build your confidence and impacts your test scores.

Step 3 . Seek Guidance From School Counselors

Speak with your school counselors or academic advisors. They can provide valuable insights into test preparation, recommend resources, and help you approach the ACCUPLACER exam with the right mindset.

Step 4 . Receiving Your ACCUPLACER Test Scores

Once you have completed the ACCUPLACER test, you will be given your test score.

The scores are presented in report format, outlining your performance in various test sections. Also given are insights into your strengths and weaknesses in relation to the subject area.

The score report can also be downloaded from the ACCUPLACER website, meaning students can review the results and discuss them with school counselors or advisors.

What are the ACCUPLACER passing scores for the math test?

There are no passing ACCUPLACER math scores. The ACCUPLACER math scores indicate how competent a student is in the subject area. Scores depend on each educational institution's requirements.

What is a good score on the ACCUPLACER?

A good ACCUPLACER score aligns with your academic goals and the placement requirements of your preferred educational institution or program.

Researching the specific score expectations is essential to determine what's suitable for you.

What is the highest score you can get on the ACCUPLACER test?

ACCUPLACER test scores provide educational institutions with information on a candidate's skill level. This ensures that students are placed in a course that applies to their skill level and proficiency in a particular subject area.

The highest score depends on the type of test being taken. Understanding the requirements for your preferred course and focusing your efforts on attaining this score is essential.

How can I get my ACCUPLACER scores?

ACCUPLACER test scores will be given immediately upon completion of the test. The scores are presented in a report on each section of the test. You can also download a copy of your report from the ACCUPLACER website.

What do my ACCUPLACER scores mean?

Your ACCUPLACER scores show your skill level in subjects such as math, reading, and writing.

Higher scores indicate stronger skills, while lower scores may necessitate additional preparation or remedial coursework. You can find out the meaning of ACCUPLACER test scores, including your ACCUPLACER reading score, in your score report.

What are average ACCUPLACER scores?

Average ACCUPLACER scores can vary depending on the institution and program requirements. Average scores range from 237 upwards in each section (Reading, Writing, and Math).

How can I improve my ACCUPLACER scores?

To improve ACCUPLACER scores, focus on understanding the scoring system, practice with sample tests to identify weaknesses, create a study plan, and allocate study time to any areas that require development.

It is also advisable to seek guidance from school counselors to guide you in your preparation and practice.

Educators and colleges use the ACCUPLACER tests to determine an individual's current skill level in a specific subject area: math, reading, or writing.

Determining the meaning of ACCUPLACER scores is the first step toward achieving your educational goals. It's important to realize that these scores aren't interpreted as being good or bad; instead, they reflect your current skill set .

To improve your ACCUPLACER scores, understand the score requirements for your preferred educational institute or course, take practice tests, and seek guidance from professionals.

You might also be interested in these other Psychometric Success articles:

Or explore the Aptitude Tests / Test Types sections.

Choose Your Test

Sat / act prep online guides and tips, the best accuplacer study guide to help you ace the test.

General Education

Many incoming college students are required to take the ACCUPLACER test before they enroll in classes. The goal of the ACCUPLACER exam is to help your college place you in the course level that’s right for you.

While you can’t fail the ACCUPLACER, doing well on the exam can ensure that you’re placed in credit-earning courses from your first day on campus. That’s why it’s a great idea to study for the ACCUPLACER exam before you have to take it. 

That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive ACCUPLACER study guide. We’re going to cover:   

• What the ACCUPLACER exam is, including who has to take it
• A full breakdown of each individual ACCUPLACER test, including the main content areas tested on each exam
• Four tips on how to study for the ACCUPLACER tests, plus info on ACCUPLACER Math study guides

Let’s get started!

What Is the ACCUPLACER Test? 

The ACCUPLACER is the name of a set of subject area tests created by the CollegeBoard to assess an incoming college student’s readiness for the knowledge and skills required to succeed in introductory-level college courses. Colleges and universities administer different ACCUPLACER tests to eligible students in order to determine what courses those students should be placed in as they begin college. 

Colleges use the ACCUPLACER to decide whether a student is ready for credit-earning courses , or if they need to take a few remediation courses first. Remediation courses are designed to bring you up to speed, though they won’t earn you credit hours. (Usually, they don’t impact your GPA, either!) 

The good news is that the ACCUPLACER test doesn’t affect your college admission! Your test score is only used to determine what your course level should be. 

So who should take the ACCUPLACER test? Well, if you’re enrolling in a college that requires the ACCUPLACER, then you’ll have to take it. Not all universities use the ACCUPLACER exam, so you’ll need to check with your institution to see if it’s required for you. 

What’s the Format of the ACCUPLACER Test? 

The ACCUPLACER exam tests your knowledge in reading, writing, and mathematics. In total, there are five main ACCUPLACER tests: Reading; Writing; Arithmetic; Quantitative Reasoning, Algebra, & Statistics (QAS); Advanced Algebra and Functions (AAF). There’s also an essay exam called the WritePlacer Essay. 

With the exception of the WritePlacer test, which uses an essay format, all of the ACCUPLACER tests use a multiple choice format. There’s also no time limit on the ACCUPLACER tests. That means you can take your time and focus on accurately demonstrating your skills and knowledge in a given subject area.

How Hard Is the ACCUPLACER Test? 

The multiple choice ACCUPLACER tests use adaptive technology to tailor the exam to each individual test taker. Basically, that means that the test carefully chooses which questions to include on an individual test taker’s exam based on the skill level that test taker demonstrates on prior exam questions. In other words, the difficulty of the questions you’ll encounter on the ACCUPLACER tests is adapted to your skill level. 

What Topics Are Covered by the ACCUPLACER Test?

Now that you know what kinds of questions appear on the ACCUPLACER tests and how the difficulty level is determined, let’s look more closely at a breakdown of the kind of skills and content areas you can expect to see on the exam. 

Each test is designed to test your college readiness level in reading, writing, and mathematics. The subject tests are designed to assess different skills. The table below will show you what skills are tested on each subject test: 

The content areas that correspond to each ACCUPLACER test listed above aren’t just possible topics that will appear on the exam. As we’ll discuss in the next section, you’re going to encounter at least one exam question from each of the content areas listed above if you take that ACCUPLACER exam. 

To help you get more comfortable with what to expect from the content of each the ACCUPLACER tests, let’s dig into the details of the content of each individual ACCUPLACER test next!

The ACCUPLACER Reading test will evaluate your ability to read, understand and interpret a text.

ACCUPLACER Reading Test

The ACCUPLACER Reading test is one of the five multiple choice ACCUPLACER tests. ACCUPLACER Reading test assesses exam takers’ ability to read and understand a text. 

To assess test takers’ skills in these areas, the ACCUPLACER Reading test presents single and paired passages of prose. The reading levels of these passages ranges from easy to fairly difficult.

In terms of content, the passages cover topics from literature, literary nonfiction, careers/history/social studies, humanities, and science . There are four length levels for the passages on the ACCUPLACER Reading section: 

• Very short passages : range from 75 to 100 words
• Short passages: range from 150 to 200 words
• Medium-length passages : range from 250 to 300 words
• Long passages : range from 350 to 400 words

There are 20 questions on the reading portion of the ACCUPLACER exam. The good news is that all of the questions on the ACCUPLACER Reading test are multiple choice. The questions may appear as stand-alone questions, or as sets of questions that address a single passage of text. 

Like we mentioned earlier, you can expect to see at least one question that addresses each of the tested skill areas. Here’s how the number of questions usually breaks down: 

Keep in mind that the ACCUPLACER is an adaptive test, so the number of questions you’ll get from each content bucket will vary based on like how well you've done on the preceding questions.

Study Resources

The key to studying for the reading section of the ACCUPLACER is to make sure you’re working on your reading comprehension and analysis skills. Here are some great resources that can help you master those skills.

ACCUPLACER English Study Guide, 2019-2020 from Test Prep Books

This ACCUPLACER study guide is the whole kit and caboodle if you need to prep for ACCUPLACER Reading and ACCUPLACER Writing, since it covers both tests. It includes study materials for reading comprehension, sentence skills, and essay writing. On top of that, you get two practice tests with answer keys included!

Mometrix Free ACCUPLACER Reading Study Guide

The Mometrix ACCUPLACER Reading Study Guide is a good fit for anyone who likes to learn visually. This free study guide is actually a 50-minute YouTube video, complete with white board tutorials for answering questions that fall into the different skills and knowledge areas on this exam.

Union Test Prep ACCUPLACER Flashcards

Folks who like to study on-the-go are always looking for portable study tools. If that sounds like you, then you should check out Union Test Prep’s digital ACCUPLACER flashcards. These digital flashcards can help you get in the study time you need for the ACCUPLACER Reading test if you don’t have a lot of time to sit down with a bulky study guide book.

ACCUPLACER Writing Test

The goal of the ACCUPLACER Writing test is to evaluate students’ ability to revise and edit a range of multi-paragraph texts. According to the College Board, the ACCUPLACER writing test evaluates students on their ability to effectively express ideas through writing . That includes testing skills like idea development, organization, and effective language use.

The ACCUPLACER Writing test consists of 25 multiple choice questions. You’ll have to read a passage, then answer questions about that passage. In that way, it’s a lot like the reading test! The biggest difference is that test questions will ask you to choose the answer choice that makes the best revision or editing decision to the passage of text. 

The multi-paragraph passages on the test can cover a variety of topics and genres, like literary nonfiction, history and social studies, and science. In addition to these different content areas, the prose texts appear in different writing modes , too. Some passages might be informative, while others may be making an argument. 

That means that in order to do well on the ACCUPLACER writing test, you’ll have to have good reading and writing skills !

To get some extra practice with revising passages based on their development, organization, and usage of Standard Written English conventions, you can work with one of the ACCUPLACER Writing study guides we’ve included below!

Next Generation Accuplacer Writing Practice Tests with Grammar Review Study Guide

This study guide book provides four ACCUPLACER Writing practice tests with answers and detailed explanations. The practice tests cover all of the skills areas tested on the real ACCUPLACER Writing exam, and there’s an extensive grammar guide and review included as well!

ACCUPLACER Writing Placement Test Study Guide

This ACCUPLACER Writing study guide offers students a variety of study resources, including streaming videos, video transcripts, unlimited practice tests, flash cards, and a mobile app. Purchasing this study guide also gives you access to one-on-one support from instructors if you need help while you study! If you’re worried about the writing portion of the ACCUPLACER exam and want a comprehensive study resource, then this is a good place for you to start. 

Mometrix.com ACCUPLACER Writing Test Study Guide

If studying using video tutorials works for you, the Mometrix ACCUPLACER Writing study guide might be worth checking out. Their writing tutors walk you through every skill assessed on the exam, and they demonstrate how to solve practice questions, too.

The ACCUPLACER Arithmetic test is one of three math sections that you'll have to take as part of the overall exam. 

ACCUPLACER Arithmetic Test

The ACCUPLACER Arithmetic test assesses a student’s computational and fluency skills, as well as conceptual understanding and ability to apply math in certain contexts. Put another way, the ACCUPLACER Arithmetic test tests your foundational mathematical skills , like your ability to perform operations, use decimals, and work with fractions. 

This ACCUPLACER math test uses 20 multiple choice questions to assess the test taker’s skills and knowledge in arithmetic. The possible number of test questions for each exam content area are listed below:

For more information about the ACCUPLACER Arithmetic test, take a look at the Skills Insight statements on the ACCUPLACER website ! If you want even more ACCUPLACER math study resources, be sure to check out our list in the ACCUPLACER AAF section below. 

The Quantitative Reasoning, Algebra, & Statistics test is a little harder than the Arithmetic test—but with a little extra studying, you'll do great! 

ACCUPLACER Quantitative Reasoning, Algebra, & Statistics (QAS) Test

The ACCUPLACER QAS test questions focus on a range of math topics, including computing with rational numbers, applying ratios and proportional reasoning, and linear equations. This tests more advanced math skills than the arithmetic exam.

This exam will ask you to answer 20 multiple choice questions that deal with a variety of content areas . To help you understand what knowledge and skills you’ll be expected to demonstrate on the ACCUPLACER QAS exam, here’s a brief breakdown of each content area, the skills and knowledge assessed in that content area, and the number of possible exam questions in each content area on the exam:

If you want to learn more about the ACCUPLACER QAS test, check out the Skills Insight statements for this test on the ACCUPLACER website. If you want even more ACCUPLACER math study resources, be sure to check out our list in the ACCUPLACER AAF section below. 

The ACCUPLACER Advanced Algebra and Functions test is the most advanced of the math sections you'll have to take as part of the ACCUPLACER exam. 

ACCUPLACER Advanced Algebra and Functions (AAF) Test

The ACCUPLACER Advanced Algebra and Functions (AAF) test assesses students’ abilities in dealing with a variety of mathematical equations and functions, as well as basic geometry and trigonometry. 

Of the three ACCUPLACER math exams, the AAF is the most challenging. That’s because it’s testing you on more advanced skills and concepts! 

Like the other math tests, this exam is also made up of a total of 20 multiple choice questions. The specific content areas on the AAF test, the skills and knowledge assessed in those content areas, and the number of possible test questions pertaining to each content area are below: 

The ACCUPLACER website provides more information about how the questions pertaining to the different content areas affect your overall score on the AAF exam in the Skills Insight statements .

ACCUPLACER Math Study Resources

In order to get the practice you need to tackle the math equations included on the three ACCUPLACER math tests, check out the three ACCUPLACER math study guides we’ve included below.

ACCUPLACER Advanced Algebra & Functions (AAF) Math Practice Functions

If live demonstrations are the thing that helps you understand complex math problems, this 20-minute YouTube tutorial is worth checking out. The creator gears his step-by-step tutorials on math problems from the different content areas of the ACCUPLACER AAF test. This resource is specifically designed for people who haven’t taken a mathematics course in a while! So if you haven’t had a math class in a few years, this is a great study resource for you. 

Practice ACCUPLACER Tests

Conveniently, the website ACCUPLACER Practice Tests is what its name implies: a one-stop shop for ACCUPLACER practice tests. If you need to study for multiple ACCUPLACER math tests, this resource provides practice materials for all three in one centralized location. And as an added bonus: the practice tests are free!

Bob Miller’s Math Prep for the ACCUPLACER Test

Bob Miller’s test prep book covers all of the skills tested on the three ACCUPLACER math exams. It also includes step-by-step examples and math exercises, and detailed solution guides for the practice problems. There are also a total of twelve practice exams included in Miller’s ACCUPLACER Math study guide! If you’re looking for a complete resource for all of the ACCUPLACER math exams, then this guide is for you.

4 More ACCUPLACER Study Resources

So far, we’ve been giving you resources for each specific ACCUPLACER test. But if you have to take multiple ACCUPLACER tests in different subject areas, it could be helpful to have access to a couple of ACCUPLACER study guides that cover all five of the ACCUPLACER tests. 

That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best comprehensive ACCUPLACER study guides. These resources will help you prepare for all the exams! If you’re looking for an all-in-one study resource, then be sure to check out the study guides we’ve listed below.

ACCUPLACER Study Guide 2019-2020 by Test Prep Books

• Where to Buy: Amazon
• Price: About $25

If you want to pick up a real, printed study guide that you can use to study content from the different ACCUPLACER tests and learn about test taking strategies, Test Prep Books’ ACCUPLACER Study Guide 2019-2020 is a great resource. This study guide includes sections on the five main ACCUPLACER tests, a full explanation of what the ACCUPLACER is, a section on test-taking strategies, practice questions, and detailed answer explanations.

Because this guide is so thorough, it’s a great resource for anyone that’s taking the ACCUPLACER test. Whether you need lots of help or just a little tune-up, this guide will have plenty of information for you.

• Where to buy: uniontestprep.com
• Price: FREE

Folks who like to study online and on-the-go might benefit from checking out Union Test Prep ACCUPLACER Flashcards . These digital flashcards can help you get in the study time you need for the ACCUPLACER tests if you don’t have a lot of time to sit down with a bulky study guide book. It makes it easy for you to fit study time around your busy schedule since you can just whip out your phone or tablet and review whenever you have some down time.

We also love this resource because it’s free and it covers all five ACCUPLACER exams. There are even flashcard sets for the ESL exams and the essay test! 

• Where to buy: https://www.practiceaccuplacertests.com/

The ACCUPLACER Practice Tests website is a one-stop shop for practice tests for the ACCUPLACER Reading, Writing, and Math tests. The site provides free math practice and English exercises, as well as free ACCUPLACER Reading practice tests, Writing practice tests, and practice tests for the three math exams.

One important thing to note about this study resource: in addition to providing practice materials for the current versions of the ACCUPLACER tests, this website also provides practice materials for the old ACCUPLACER tests (labelled as “Classic ACCUPLACER” on their website). While the “Classic” tests are great for working through extra practice problems, keep in mind that they’re not the most up-to-date resource! We recommend that you start studying with the current ACCUPLACER tests, then use the classic tests if you want a little additional practice. 

• Where to buy: Amazon
• Price: About $10.00

Okay, okay. So this study guide is a comprehensive resource for all the ACCUPLACER math tests. If you want to brush up on your reading or writing, you’ll have to look elsewhere. 

But math is often one of the trickiest subjects for test takers, which is why we wanted to include this study guide on our comprehensive list, too. The author has taught math for 30 years, and he has lots of experience with helping students prepare for the ACCUPLACER math tests. His book covers all of the skills tested on the math exams, includes step-by-step examples and math exercises, and detailed explanations of the solutions. This book gives you all the benefits of a teacher-led study session without having to fit additional classes in your busy schedule!

How to Study for the ACCUPLACER: 4 Study Tips

Now that you’re familiar with our recommendations for ACCUPLACER study guides, check out our four tips for how to study for the ACCUPLACER below!

#1: Use the ACCUPLACER Skills Insight Statements

The best place to start in terms of an ACCUPLACER study guide is with the ACCUPLACER Skills Insight statements . These statements, created and made available online by the CollegeBoard, describe the skills and knowledge you’ll be tested on during the exams. In other words, the Skills Insights statements tell you all the topics you’ll need to know in order to pass the ACCUPLACER exam. 

Knowing what kind of content is going to be on the exams will help you seek out practice materials—even if they aren’t designed for the ACCUPLACER tests specifically— that help you work with the knowledge you’ll be accountable for on the tests.

#2: Use the ACCUPLACER-Provided Practice Materials

The ACCUPLACER website also has a number of practice tests and question sets available . These practice materials look like what you’ll see on the actual tests, so you can get comfortable with navigating the layout and format of the exams. That way you’ll develop a good feel for the ACCUPLACER exam long before you sit down for the actual test. 

#3: Take Practice ACCUPLACER Tests 

Spending some time taking practice ACCUPLACER tests is an important part of the preparation process . Taking practice tests lets you determine what areas you need to study hardest, helps you track your progress, and gets you ready to tackle the actual ACCUPLACER exam come test day. 

Fortunately, there are a plethora of practice ACCUPLACER tests available for free online. Working with these practice tests and tracking your results on them is a good way to identify the skills and knowledge you need to spend a little extra study time on before the real exams!

#4: Study Regularly 

If there are topics on the ACCUPLACER exam that you’re not totally comfortable with, then you’re going to have to do some studying. But trying to cram for a few hours before the test isn’t going to be very helpful! Not only is cramming not very effective, it’s probably not enough time for you to get a handle on the material. 

That’s why we recommend that you put a study plan together to keep yourself on track. Start studying four to six weeks ahead of the exam date, and make sure you fit a study session at least once a week. That way you’ll have a chance to build up your knowledge base before you sit for the ACCUPLACER exam. 

What's Next?

You may not have a lot of time to study for the ACCUPLACER exam. That’s why it’s important to maximize your studying so you get the most out of each session. Our guide to the best study techniques can help you study more effectively, and ultimately, help you improve your ACCUPLACER score.

But what if you can’t make time to study in the first place? That’s where good time management skills come in . If you take control of how you spend your time, we guarantee you’ll be able to fit in a few study sessions before your ACCUPLACER test. Here’s an expert guide to the best time management techniques for busy students like you.

For many people, taking a test can be an anxiety-inducing experience . This article will help you develop the tools you need to conquer your test anxiety ! While this article deals mostly with ACT and SAT test anxiety, the same skills and techniques will help you overcome your jitters about the ACCUPLACER exam, too.

These recommendations are based solely on our knowledge and experience. If you purchase an item through one of our links, PrepScholar may receive a commission.

Ashley Sufflé Robinson has a Ph.D. in 19th Century English Literature. As a content writer for PrepScholar, Ashley is passionate about giving college-bound students the in-depth information they need to get into the school of their dreams.

Ask a Question Below

Have any questions about this article or other topics? Ask below and we'll reply!

Improve With Our Famous Guides

• For All Students

The 5 Strategies You Must Be Using to Improve 160+ SAT Points

How to Get a Perfect 1600, by a Perfect Scorer

Series: How to Get 800 on Each SAT Section:

Score 800 on SAT Math

Score 800 on SAT Reading

Score 800 on SAT Writing

Series: How to Get to 600 on Each SAT Section:

Score 600 on SAT Math

Score 600 on SAT Reading

Score 600 on SAT Writing

Free Complete Official SAT Practice Tests

What SAT Target Score Should You Be Aiming For?

15 Strategies to Improve Your SAT Essay

The 5 Strategies You Must Be Using to Improve 4+ ACT Points

How to Get a Perfect 36 ACT, by a Perfect Scorer

Series: How to Get 36 on Each ACT Section:

36 on ACT English

36 on ACT Math

36 on ACT Reading

36 on ACT Science

Series: How to Get to 24 on Each ACT Section:

24 on ACT English

24 on ACT Math

24 on ACT Reading

24 on ACT Science

What ACT target score should you be aiming for?

ACT Vocabulary You Must Know

ACT Writing: 15 Tips to Raise Your Essay Score

How to Get Into Harvard and the Ivy League

How to Get a Perfect 4.0 GPA

How to Write an Amazing College Essay

What Exactly Are Colleges Looking For?

Is the ACT easier than the SAT? A Comprehensive Guide

Should you retake your SAT or ACT?

When should you take the SAT or ACT?

Stay Informed

Get the latest articles and test prep tips!

Looking for Graduate School Test Prep?

Check out our top-rated graduate blogs here:

GRE Online Prep Blog

GMAT Online Prep Blog

TOEFL Online Prep Blog

Holly R. "I am absolutely overjoyed and cannot thank you enough for helping me!”

What to Know About the Accuplacer Exam

The Accuplacer is commonly used to determine academic abilities for placement in college courses.

Getty Images

Students should check with individual colleges to see what scores they should aim for based on their goals.

The SAT is a household name and AP classes are ubiquitous. But the Accuplacer, a lesser-known suite of tests from the College Board, also plays an important role in helping gauge college readiness and is used by some schools to determine accurate course placement.

While the SAT has a reputation as a high-stakes exam traditionally tied to admissions decisions and scholarships, college officials say the Accuplacer is more about finding out where student abilities stand in order to place them in the proper classes. Often the exam is used by high schools to determine dual enrollment capabilities and by colleges to measure the abilities of adult learners.

"The Accuplacer placement test is designed to help see where (prospective) students are currently at with the course content," says Hannah Mathes, associate director of the testing center at Heartland Community College in Illinois.

The Accuplacer is commonly used at community colleges to help determine which classes are appropriate for entering students. Other placement options include high school GPA and standardized test scores.

Mathes says the Accuplacer is likely to be taken by prospective students who don't have recent grades or SAT or ACT scores. While traditional-age college freshmen straight out of high school have recent GPA data and possibly test scores, that is less true of adult students who haven't been in the classroom in years.

College applicants may also use the Accuplacer to test into higher-level math courses, such as calculus, if they want to take those classes but don't have the classroom experience to show they can do the work.

But experts say the exam is ultimately about recognizing where students are and placing them in programs to help achieve their end goals, which vary greatly. For example, a student aiming for an associate degree will have greater requirements than someone enrolling in a short-term certificate program , which may have limited requirements for math and emphasize other skills instead.

"We want to ensure that students are prepared and we want to accurately place students in the right courses so they can complete those courses successfully," says Traci Van Prooyen, Heartland's associate vice president for academic affairs.

What to Expect When Taking the Accuplacer

While other standardized exams may feel like a race against the clock, the Accuplacer is untimed. How quickly a student finishes will depend on his or her abilities, but completion time is typically two to three hours depending on placement level.

Though some other exams may take weeks after the test day for the results to be released, Accuplacer scores are provided immediately.

According to the College Board website, the Accuplacer "uses the latest computer-adaptive technology, which means the questions you see are based on your skill level." How a test-taker responds to a question will determine the difficulty of the next question. Additionally, colleges have some flexibility in determining what is on the test in order to suit their own program assessment needs.

Prices to administer the test are set by individual colleges, and some don't charge students a fee. Both in-person and remote testing opportunities are available but may vary by college. Students should visit the College Board website to find testing options .

How to Understand Accuplacer Scores

The universal question when taking a standardized test is, "What's a good score?" The answer often depends on what the student is aiming for, and the same rings true regarding the Accuplacer. It comes down to what placement the student is targeting.

Some students may be looking to get into higher-level courses while others are just looking to get into college. That may mean one student is happy with avoiding remedial classes while another needs this work to build a solid academic foundation.

Essentially, there is no such thing as passing or failing the Accuplacer, experts say.

"One of the things that we frequently tell students is that at our institution, there's no passing and there's no failing," Mathes says. "Regardless of how they score on the test, they will get a placement at the end of the day."

The Accuplacer "supports students ready to start earning credits toward their degree as well as those who need to develop their skills before taking college-level courses," Jerome White, director of media relations and external communications at the College Board, wrote in an email. He added that "test results let students know where they stand academically, which makes it easier for them to plan a successful path toward a college degree."

Students should think of the Accuplacer as a series of tests, all with slightly different scoring mechanisms. For example, the Accuplacer reading, writing, quantitative reasoning and statistics, and advanced algebra and functions tests each have a score range of 200 to 300.

The best way to get a sense of what those scores mean is to understand the threshold needed to get into desired college classes. Students should check with individual colleges to see what scores they should aim for based on their goals.

The essay portion of the exam, WritePlacer, has a score range of 1 to 8.

The Accuplacer can also be used to determine placement for students who speak English as a second language. The College Board offers four Accuplacer ESL tests – language use, listening, reading and sentence skills – which are each scored on a range of 20 to 120. The essay portion, WritePlacer ESL, is scored on a range from 1 to 6.

"To help students understand what their score means, they can review the Skills Insight statements for each test," White says.

Where to Find Accuplacer Test Prep Resources

Unlike the SAT and ACT, which have seemingly endless options of free and paid resources, Accuplacer test prep content isn't as widely available from third-party providers. But the College Board does offer complimentary exam practice resources online.

Some schools, such as Heartland, also offer tutoring services for applicants planning to take the Accuplacer. In addition to in-house tutoring services, Mathes also recommends that students sign up for practice sessions on the College Board website. She cites the Khan Academy website as another useful test prep resource, particularly to help students with the math tests.

However prospective students choose to study, Van Prooyen encourages them to get an early start. "Instead of studying the night before – which tends to increase anxiety – if you spread out test preparation over a week or two, that helps lower test anxiety."

Searching for a college? Get our complete rankings of Best Colleges.

Study Tips for High School Students

Tags: students , colleges , college admissions , college applications , community colleges , testing , standardized tests , education , College Board

2024 Best Colleges

Search for your perfect fit with the U.S. News rankings of colleges and universities.

College Admissions: Get a Step Ahead!

Sign up to receive the latest updates from U.S. News & World Report and our trusted partners and sponsors. By clicking submit, you are agreeing to our Terms and Conditions & Privacy Policy .

Ask an Alum: Making the Most Out of College

You May Also Like

Premedical programs: what to know.

Sarah Wood May 21, 2024

How Geography Affects College Admissions

Cole Claybourn May 21, 2024

Q&A: College Alumni Engagement

LaMont Jones, Jr. May 20, 2024

10 Destination West Coast College Towns

Cole Claybourn May 16, 2024

Scholarships for Lesser-Known Sports

Sarah Wood May 15, 2024

Should Students Submit Test Scores?

Sarah Wood May 13, 2024

Poll: Antisemitism a Problem on Campus

Lauren Camera May 13, 2024

Federal vs. Private Parent Student Loans

Erika Giovanetti May 9, 2024

14 Colleges With Great Food Options

Sarah Wood May 8, 2024

Colleges With Religious Affiliations

Anayat Durrani May 8, 2024

Are you seeking one-on-one college counseling and/or essay support? Limited spots are now available. Click here to learn more.

What is the ACCUPLACER test? A Guide for 2023

April 16, 2023

SAT. ACT. PSAT. AP Exams. Whether you are applying to college for the first time or are in the midst of transferring, you are probably familiar with the alphabet soup that is standardized testing. However, there is one exam that may be new to you: the ACCUPLACER test. If you are just learning about the ACCUPLACER test, fear not! In this post, you’ll find answers to all of your questions from, “What is the ACCUPLACER test?” to “What is a good score on the ACCUPLACER?” Let’s dive in!

What is the ACCUPLACER test?

The ACCUPLACER is a series of placement tests administered by the College Board that colleges may require of admitted students. By evaluating students’ skills in reading, writing, and math, ACCUPLACER helps administrators determine students’ readiness for college-level work and place them in appropriate courses.

Unlike other standardized tests, the ACCUPLACER does not typically have any bearing on a student’s admission to a college. Rather, the ACCUPLACER gauges students’ knowledge in various subjects so that they can be placed in courses that will best support their learning. However, colleges may require that students earn a minimum score on ACCUPLACER tests to gain placement in certain courses. Those minimums are determined by colleges on an individual basis.

If you are planning to enroll in a public college or university in Texas, please note that a different placement test, the Texas Success Initiative Assessment 2.0 (TSIA2) , may be required.

Who should take the ACCUPLACER test?

Now that we have our answer to “What is the ACCUPLACER test?” you’re probably wondering whether you should take it. Because the ACCUPLACER gauges students’ college readiness, it may be required of students in a variety of circumstances including:

• First-year college students who are newly enrolled at a two-year or four-year college
• College students who are transferring to a new university
• High school students who are interested in taking dual enrollment courses
• EFL (English as a foreign language) students

Required is the keyword in that sentence. Students cannot voluntarily sign up for the exam if their university does not require it. For that reason, the question isn’t “Who should take the ACCUPLACER test?” but rather “Who must take the ACCUPLACER test?”

Why is the ACCUPLACER important?

As a student, the ACCUPLACER may feel like yet another hurdle to jump during the college enrollment process. However, the ACCUPLACER is a tool intended to help, rather than deter, you. By measuring your knowledge and skills, the ACCUPLACER facilitates effective course placement for you. Essentially, the ACCUPLACER will ensure that you aren’t placed in courses that are too difficult or easy for your current skill level, which can waste time and money.

What content does the ACCUPLACER cover?

This post hinges on a central question: “What is the ACCUPLACER test?” However, the answer to that question is actually a bit of a moving target. Since colleges can decide which subjects students will be tested on, the ACCUPLACER may consist of different materials depending on where you are enrolled. Outlined below is a list of topics that may be covered in each ACCUPLACER test.

Multiple Choice Tests

The Reading test will evaluate students’ ability to glean meaning from various texts through four categories of multiple-choice questions:

• Information and ideas

The Writing test gauges students’ proficiency in revising texts. Students will be evaluated in two categories:

• Expression of ideas, which includes development of texts, organization, and use of effective language.
• Standard English conventions, which encompasses local elements of writing, including sentence structure and punctuation.

There are also a range of Math tests that students may complete. They include:

• An Arithmetic test, which evaluates knowledge of computation, order of operations, and the comparison of values in differing formats. Topics include whole number, fraction, and decimal operations, as well as number comparisons and equivalents.
• The Quantitative Reasoning, Algebra, and Statistics (QAS) test, which assesses knowledge of topics such as rational numbers, exponents, algebraic expressions, descriptive statistics, and geometry concepts.
• The Advanced Algebra and Functions (AAF) test, which measures skills in linear equations, quadratics, functions, and trigonometry.

Some schools may require English language learners to take ACCUPLACER’s ESL tests to evaluate their proficiency in sentence meaning, English language use, and listening.

In addition to these multiple-choice tests, some students may be required to complete the WritePlacer Essay , in which students draft an essay in response to a prompt of their choice. There is also a version of the WritePlacer Essay designed for non-native speakers.

Is the ACCUPLACER test hard?

While your first question was probably, “What is the ACCUPLACER test?” your next likely concern is how difficult it is. Whether students find the ACCUPLACER test difficult will depend on their comfort with the required subjects and multiple-choice tests. The test is also taken on a computer, which may be to a student’s advantage or disadvantage depending on their level of technological proficiency. However, when considering the difficulty of the ACCUPLACER test, its content is perhaps less important than its format. The ACCUPLACER is adaptive , meaning your answers will determine the difficulty of subsequent questions. For example, if you answer multiple questions correctly, then you will receive more challenging questions. Conversely, entering incorrect answers will result in less difficult questions.

So, is the ACCUPLACER test hard? Yes, in the sense that the test will adapt to your responses to evaluate your skills.

How long is the ACCUPLACER test?

The ACCUPLACER test, with the exception of the WritePlacer Essay, does not have a time limit. As a result, students can take their time and answer questions to the best of their ability. However, because of its adaptive nature, the ACCUPLACER does not allow students to return to previous questions and change answers. Therefore, students should take advantage of their unlimited time to avoid careless errors.

What is a good score on the ACCUPLACER?

We can’t fully answer, “What is the ACCUPLACER test?” without explaining its scoring. Students who take the ACCUPLACER will receive individual scores for each test they complete. For example, if a student completed the Reading test, QAS test, and the WritePlacer Essay, they would receive three scores. ACCUPLACER tests are also scored instantaneously, so students will not have to wait for their results.

Reading, Writing, and Math tests are all scored on a range of 200-300. Within that range, there are five score bands, which reflect varying levels of proficiency within a given subject:

For a thorough discussion of these score ranges and their meaning, students can consult the ACCUPLACER Skills Insight™ document.

In contrast, the WritePlacer Essay is scored on a scale of 1-8 based on five components of writing :

• Purpose and focus
• Organization and structure
• Development and support
• Mechanical Conventions
• Critical thinking

Similarly, the WritePlacer ESL Essay is evaluated on a scale of 1-6 . Finally, the multichoice ESL tests have a potential score range from 20-120.

Now that we’ve covered the scoring system, we can return to that idea of a “good” score. Believe it or not, you cannot pass or fail the ACCUPLACER! Colleges may assign a minimum score for placement in courses, but there is no definitive threshold for a passing score. Generally, ACCUPLACER scores are more descriptive than evaluative. By this, we mean that scores describe what skills or knowledge a student already has to aid course placement.

With that idea in mind, let’s circle back to our original question: “What is a good score on the ACCUPLACER?” We would argue that a “good” score on the ACCUPLACER is one that accurately reflects a student’s current knowledge, regardless of what score range it falls in.

Where do I sign up?

As noted previously, not all colleges use ACCUPLACER, and those that do may only utilize some of its testing materials. For this reason, students will need to sign up for the exam through their college. Students will usually take the test in person at their university, though they may also be able to complete their exam at an approved testing center. Information on placement test requirements, including the ACCUPLACER, can typically be found through a college’s advising department or testing center.

How can I prepare?

The College Board provides several materials that can help students prepare for the ACCUPLACER. First, determine the minimum scores needed for introductory classes at your college. Next, read the Skills Insight™ document to identify what skills you’ll need to be proficient in to earn that score. Knowing which skills to prioritize can help you conduct more targeted preparation.

With that information in hand, you can then make your way through the study materials College Board provides . These materials include practice tests, as well as subject-specific guides and sample questions.

Final Thoughts – What is the ACCUPLACER test?

What is the ACCUPLACER test? The ACCUPLACER is an adaptable placement test that measures students’ proficiency in reading, math, and writing. Colleges that use ACCUPLACER do so to ensure students enroll in courses that are appropriate for their current skill level.

Again, not all colleges use the ACCUPLACER. Therefore, it’s important that students verify what placement tests they will need to complete upon enrollment. This is especially important for transfer students, since entry requirements can vary widely from school to school. If you are a current or prospective transfer student, the following Dataverse resources may be helpful in gathering this information:

• Transfer Testing Policies
• Transfer Credit Requirements
• Transfer Applicant Checklist
• 2-Year Colleges

Emily Smith

Emily earned a BA in English and Communication Studies from UNC Chapel Hill and an MA in English from Wake Forest University. While at UNC and Wake Forest, she served as a tutor and graduate assistant in each school’s writing center, where she worked with undergraduate and graduate students from all academic backgrounds. She also worked as an editorial intern for the Wake Forest University Press as well as a visiting lecturer in the Department of English at WFU, and currently works as a writing center director in western North Carolina.

• Application Strategies
• Best Colleges by Major
• Best Colleges by State
• Big Picture
• Career & Personality Assessment
• College Essay
• College Search/Knowledge
• College Success
• Costs & Financial Aid
• Data Visualizations
• Dental School Admissions
• Extracurricular Activities
• Graduate School Admissions
• High School Success
• High Schools
• Law School Admissions
• Medical School Admissions
• Navigating the Admissions Process
• Online Learning
• Private High School Spotlight
• Summer Program Spotlight
• Summer Programs
• Teacher Tools
• Test Prep Provider Spotlight

“Innovative and invaluable…use this book as your college lifeline.”

— Lynn O'Shaughnessy

Nationally Recognized College Expert

College Planning in Your Inbox

Join our information-packed monthly newsletter.

I am a... Student Student Parent Counselor Educator Other First Name Last Name Email Address Zip Code Area of Interest Business Computer Science Engineering Fine/Performing Arts Humanities Mathematics STEM Pre-Med Psychology Social Studies/Sciences Submit

• Alumni Relations
• Accreditations
• Board of Trustees
• Consumer Information
• Mission, Vision & Values
• Publications
• Explore Majors & Careers
• Transfer Degree Programs
• Workforce Career Training
• Online Learning
• Honors Program
• High School Programs
• Adult Education & Literacy
• Community Education
• Continuing Education
• View Classes
• Academic Calendar
• Get Help From Our Team
• New, Returning & Transfer
• International
• Tuition & Fees
• Paying for LLCC
• Financial Aid
• Scholarships
• Clubs/Organizations
• Student Government
• Upcoming Events
• Academic Support & Tutoring
• Accessibility Services
• Career Center
• Success Coaching
• Workforce Equity Initiative
• PATH Program
• A-Z Student Information
• Child Development Center
• Fitness Center
• Food/Dining
• Police & Safety

Who needs to be assessed?

Students who need to take an English course or a course that requires reading must take the placement test if they did not meet GPA, ACT/SAT requirements. A reading test will be required if the student has not met the requirements for EGL 101/100 or have the required ACT/SAT scores.

Take a Practice Test

ACCUPLACER Next Generation Write Placer Plus

Write Placer gives you an opportunity to show how effectively you can develop and express your ideas in writing. You will first read a short passage and an assignment question that are focused on an important issue. You will then write an essay in which you develop your point of view on the issue. You should support your position with appropriate reasoning and examples. The position you take will not influence your score. Your essay will be given a holistic score that represents how clearly and effectively you expressed your position. The following six characteristics of writing will be considered:

• Purpose and Focus — The extent to which you present information in a unified and coherent manner, clearly addressing the issue
• Organization and Structure — The extent to which you order and connect ideas
• Development and Support — The extent to which you develop and support ideas
• Mechanical Conventions — The extent to which you express ideas using Standard Written English
• Sentence Variety and Style — The extent to which you craft sentences and paragraphs demonstrating control of vocabulary, voice, and structure
• Critical Thinking — The extent to which you communicate a point of view and demonstrate reasoned relationships among ideas

ACCUPLACER Next Generation Reading

The Next-Generation Reading test is a broad-spectrum computer adaptive assessment of test-takers’ developed ability to derive meaning from a range of prose texts and to determine the meaning of words and phrases in short and extended contexts. Questions are multiple choice in format and appear as both discrete (stand-alone) questions  parts of sets of questions built around a common passage or passages.

Four broad knowledge and skill categories are assessed:

• Information and Ideas (reading closely, determining central ideas and themes, summarizing, understanding relationships)
• Rhetoric (analyzing word choice rhetorically, analyzing text structure, analyzing point of view, analyzing purpose, analyzing arguments)
• Synthesis (analyzing multiple texts)

English 101

You do not need to take an English placement test and are eligible to register for English 101 if you meet one of the following criteria:

• You have a high school GPA of 2.7 or higher.
• You have an ACT score of 18 or higher.
• You have an SAT score of 480 or higher.
• You received your GED after 2016 and scored a 175 on the Reasoning Through Language Arts.

If you scored between 5-8 on the ACCUPLACER test, you can register for English 101.

English 100/101

You are eligible to register for English 100/101, or you may take the ACCUPLACER Write Placer Plus to place into English 101, if you meet one of the following criteria:

• You have a high school GPA of 1.90-2.699.
• You have an ACT score between 13-17.
• You have an SAT score of 460-476.
• You received your GED after 2016 and scored between 145-175.

If you scored a 3 or 4 on the ACCUPLACER test, you will need to register for English 100/101, or you may retest with permission from your student success coach .

English 100/101 Plus Reading

You may register for English 100/101 plus reading, or you may take the ACCUPLACER Write Placer Plus to place into English 101, if you meet one of the following criteria:

• You have a high school GPA of 1.89 or below.
• You have an ACT score of 12 or below.
• You have an SAT score of 200-459.
• You received your GED after 2016 and scored 144 or below.

If you scored a 1 or 2 on the ACCUPLACER test, you will need to register for English 100/101 plus reading, or you may retest with permission from your student success coach .

Terms of Use | Content Manager  | © 2021 by Lincoln Land Community College

• ACCUPLACER Test
• ACCUPLACER Scores
• ACCUPLACER ESL Scores

ACCUPLACER ESL Scores Explained

The ACCUPLACER ESL (English as a Second Language) exam contains four multiple choice sections, each graded on a scale from 20 to 120 points: Language Use, Listening, Reading, and Sentence Skills. There is also an essay section, called the ACCUPLACER WritePlacer Essay, which is graded on a scale from 0 to 8 points. Below, we will explain more about your ACCUPLACER ESL scores. Free ACCUPLACER Sample Questions

Hi, I’m Ariav , TestPrep-Online’s expert for Accuplacer tests. I have a master’s degree in Education and experience as a teacher and tutor. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me at   [email protected]

ACCUPLACER ESL Language Use Scores

Accuplacer esl listening scores, accuplacer esl reading skills scores, accuplacer esl sentence skills scores, about accuplacer esl.

The ACCUPLACER ESL test is used by colleges and universities to determine the level of English of students who are learning English as a Second Language. Scores on each of the sections of the test to help guidance counselors and professors determine whether it's best for a student to begin studying in regular classes, a combination of regular and ESL classes, or only ESL classes.

The Language Use section of the ACCUPLACER ESL exam tests your knowledge of English grammar by covering the following topics:

• nouns, pronouns, and pronoun case structure
• sentence structure
• subject-verb agreement
• adverbs/adjectives
• subordination/coordination

You are tested on these topics in one of two ways: completing a sentence by filling in a blank with a word or phrase from the given choices and choosing a sentence that best combines the two given sentences. You can practice for this section by doing grammar exercises and by reading books and websites written in formal English at or above your level. While each college or university has its own policy for using ACCUPLACER ESL to help place students into ESL or English classes, this is a general guide to skill levels based on ACCUPLACER ESL Language Use scores:

The Listening section of the ACCUPLACER ESL exam measures your ability to understand one or more people speaking English. The conversations that take place have a range of topics: academic topics such as science, math, and literature, and everyday conversations that take place at home, at work, and while shopping or eating. You can practice for this section by having conversations in English, listening to English being spoken around you as you go about your day, and finding movies and songs that interest you in English. While each college or university treats scores in its own way, this is a general guide to skill levels based on ACCUPLACER ESL Listening scores: 

The Reading Skills test contains brief passages of 50 words or less and moderate-length passages of 50 to 90 words. This portion assesses your ability by asking literal comprehension questions or questions that require you to infer information that isn't stated directly in the passage. You can practice for this section by reading texts in English at or above your level, summarizing them, talking about them, and writing about them. ACCUPLACER ESL Reading scores are used in different ways by different colleges and universities, but this is a general guide to interpreting score ranges:

The Sentence Skills questions assess your understanding of word meanings in a one or two-sentence context. A sentence is given, and you have to choose the best way to change the sentence, or to keep it the same. You can get a sense for how to answer these kinds of questions by reading formal English written at or above your level There are four sentence skills measured:

• particles, phrasal verbs, and prepositions
• adverbs, adjectives, and connective sequences
• basic nouns and verbs
• basic and advanced idioms

 While every college considers ACCUPLACER ESL Sentence Skills Scores in its own way, these are general score ranges to give you an idea of your level:

ACCUPLACER WritePlacer ESL Essay

The ACCUPLACER WritePlacer ESL Essay assesses your ability to write a developed, organized, and grammatically correct response to a topic. Your essay will be scored by a computer, but you should write just as if it were being scored by an English teacher or professor. Your essay will be scored based on the following factors:

• Organization
• Development and Support
• Sentence Structure
• Mechanical Conventions

Essays are scored on a scale from 0-8. While each college or university uses the WritePlacer ESL Essay differently to place students into classes, these are what essay scores mean in general:

• 8 : Clear and Consistent Mastery
• 7 : Consistent Mastery
• 6 : Reasonably Consistent Mastery
• 5 : Adequate Mastery
• 4 : Developing Mastery
• 3 : Little Mastery
• 2 : Very Little Mastery
• 1 : No Mastery
• 0 : Blank/Extremely Short/Off-Topic/Not Written in English

Improve your ACCUPLACER ESL Scores

We are developing ACCUPLACER ESL practice packs. If your English is already at a high-intermediate or advanced level, we recommend that you try the  ACCUPLACER English Prep Pack for practice. If your English is at a high-beginner or low-intermediate level and  you're taking the ACCUPLACER Math test, we recommend that you try our ACCUPLACER Math Prep Pack for practice.

ACCUPLACER® and WritePlacer® are trademarks and property of COLLEGE BOARD. The trademark holder is not affiliated with TestPrep-Online or this website.

Back to top

Related Links

Texas Success Initiative

Submit tsi scores.

Please visit the Accuplacer College Board website for an accessible version of steps for how to submit your TSI scores.

Visit the Accuplacer Student Portal and choose “Your ACCUPLACER Score Report” from the options.

On the "Find Your Results" page, enter in the information you did when you took your test and click the "Search" button. 

Note: When selecting your institution, remember that you may have tested at a local college, although you took the test at your high school. Select the institution you tested for, rather than the testing location (if different).

Step Three!

Next, you will see a screen confirming that your test results have been found. The "Search Result" will contain the email address you entered when you tested. Click the "Send Reports" button in the bottom right to recieve an email with your Individual Score Report.

After you send the reports, you will recieve an email with the subject "Your ACCUPLACER Test Results". If the email is not in your inbox, check your Spam or Junk folder. In your email, click "View ISR" button to retrieve your Individual Score Report. 

Before you retrieve your ISR, you will need to read and accept the College Board Privacy Policy.

Note: You will not be able to access your ISR without accepting this privacy policy.

Next, you will see a list of your test sessions along with your date and scores. If you have taken the exam more than once, you will see an entry for each session. To print your ISR, select "View Complete Report".

Example Individual Score Report (ISR): 

Step Seven!

To send your scores to Texas Tech University, send your TSI scores as a PDF document to [email protected] . 

• Like Texas Success Initiative on Facebook Like Texas Success Initiative on Facebook
• Follow Texas Success Initiative on X (twitter) Follow Texas Success Initiative on X (twitter)
• Follow Texas Success Initiative on Instagram Follow Texas Success Initiative on Instagram