Standardized tests can be nerve-racking. And that makes sense: you are investing a lot of time, energy, money, and effort when you embark on a college career, and the Accuplacer is one of the very first steps on that path.

For many students, knowing about the details of the test beforehand -- where it takes place, how it is administered, how much time it takes -- can help alleviate some stress. Read through the information, and try to envision yourself taking the test.

Location

At South Puget Sound Community College, the Accuplacer tests are administered in the Assessment Center, located in building 22 room 201 at the Olympia campus and building 1 room 153 at the Lacey campus. When you arrive, you will be greeted by an Assessment Center employee who will serve as your test proctor, explain the testing process, and get you started on the exam. If you have any questions about the Accuplacer or your test results, you can ask the proctor at any time.

The testing room contains several rows of computers. Even though there may be other people in the room with you, the test must be completed individually. The room can be chilly, so bring a few layers of clothing. You will be asked to place your personal possessions aside while taking the test.

Format

The Accuplacer is administered on a computer, with instructions displayed on the screen. Every question is multiple choice. Once you have submitted an answer, you cannot go back and change it. The test is adaptive, meaning the more questions you get right, the harder they will become.

Duration

The Accuplacer is an untimed test, so you can spend as much time as you need on each question. In fact, this is a key test-taking strategy: take your time, and really think through each of your answers. There is no reason to rush. Spending a few extra moments on each question could help you place higher and save you time and money in the long run.

For planning purposes, the Assessment Center recommends scheduling two hours per testing session. Again, though, remind yourself that there is no time limit.You are even allowed to pause and resume the test on another day if you can't finish by the time the center closes.

For more information on testing requirements and Assessment Center hours, click here to visit the Assessment Center website.

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