Placement Test FAQs

Please arrive on time or 10 - 15 minutes early. If you are late, you may be asked to reschedule the test.

What is the purpose of the placement test?

Delaware Tech uses standardized tests called the ACCUPLACER Computerized Placement Tests to provide information about your level of skill accomplishment in reading, English, and mathematics. Your scores on the placement tests help to determine the integrated reading and writing/English, and mathematics courses that are most appropriate for you at this time.

What types of tests are given?

Most students take a minimum of 3 tests: Reading Comprehension, Sentence Skills, and Arithmetic. The Reading Comprehension test consists of 20 multiple choice questions to measure your understanding of what you read. The Sentence Skills test includes 20 multiple choice questions to measure your understanding of how sentences are put together and what makes a sentence complete. The Arithmetic test includes 16 questions that test your skills involving operations with whole numbers, fractions, decimals and percents, as well as applications and problem solving.

Many students will go on to take the Elementary Algebra portion of the test. Also, some students will need to take the Levels of English Proficiency (LOEP) tests, which include Language Use, Sentence Meaning, and Reading Skills.

What if I've had little or no computer experience? How will I do on a computerized placement test?

NO PROBLEM! The placement tests are very user friendly, and there will always be a person in the Assessment Center to answer your questions.

What if I have special needs?

Please contact Student Affairs at your home campus.

How long does the test take?

That depends on you! Our students say that the best part about placement tests is that they are untimed. You work at your own pace! Most students average about 2 hours for 3 to 4 tests.

What should I bring to the test site?

Be sure to bring along at least one form of photo identification and know your student ID number. Scrap paper and pencils will be provided. Identification is required for admittance to the test. No other materials (calculators, dictionaries, etc.) may be used. However, you may use the pop-up calculator that appears for some of the math questions.

Should I guess if I'm unsure of an answer?

You should understand that this is an adaptive test. Questions are chosen for you on the basis of your answers to previous questions. Therefore, you must answer every question when it is first given. You cannot omit a question or return to it later.

When will I find out my test scores?

When you have finished testing, you will make an appointment to review your test scores.