What is Accuplacer?  (back to top)
Accuplacer is a free computerized test that helps determine your current skill level in the areas of reading and mathematics for program and course placement.

How does the Accuplacer test work?  (back to top)
This assessment system is easy to use; no computer experience is necessary. First you will be provided instructions for using the computer. Next, you will be asked questions about your education, for example, how many years you have studied various subjects or how long it has been since you have taken a math course. The test provides an accurate measure of reading and mathematics skill levels using a small number of questions. Also, there is no time limit.

Accuplacer is an "adaptive" test. The computer program selects or adapts test questions for you based on your answers to previous questions. The questions are chosen to be challenging - that is, neither too easy nor too hard for you. Because the computer uses all your previous answers in choosing the next question, you must answer every question when it is first presented. You cannot omit a question or return to an earlier question to change an answer

What is on Accuplacer?  (back to top)
Everyone will take a Reading Comprehension test and Arithmetic test.
For the following Degree/Certificate programs, if you score very high on the arithmetic test, an Elementary Algebra test will automatically be administered for course placement:
+ Civil or Mechanical Engineering
+ Electronics Technology
+ Instrumentation and Control Technology
+ Operations Management
+ Practical Nursing
+ Process Technology
+ Surgery Technology
+ Surveying and Mapping Technology

A third test, called Sentence skills, is necessary for some students. Those interested in taking English Composition (ENGL 101) instead of Oral & Written Communications (COM 170) or General Psychology (PSYC 100) instead of Interpersonal & Organizational Psychology (PSYC 111) will be required to take a Sentence Skills test. In addition, students applying for financial aid who do not have a high school diploma or GED certificate will also take the Sentence Skills test. This does not apply to high school students in the Running Start program

How do I schedule my assessment?  (back to top)
Contact the BTC Admissions Office at (360) 752-8345 to schedule an appointment for the Accuplacer assessment.

There is no cost for the Accuplacer assessment.

Plan approximately 1 ½ - 2 hours to complete the Accuplacer test. You will meet with an advisor following the test to receive your scores and the answers to any questions you may have. You may re-take any part of the assessment, if needed

How do I prepare for the Accuplacer assessment?  (back to top)
You may choose from a variety of resources that can assist in refreshing basic academic skills. Depending on your time schedule, learning style, or the level of assistance needed, choose the option that will work for you. You may also meet with a counselor or advisor to obtain their recommendation

Sample Questions - Study Guides (PDF)
+ Reading
+ Arithmetic
+ Algebra
+ Sentence Skills
+ College Level Math

On-Line Practice Websites
+ Collegeboard Accuplacer Sample Questions
+ Test Prep Review
+ Math.com
+ The Math Page

BTC Learning Center
+ Enroll in study skills class

BTC Library
+ Check out helpful resource texts