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Placement Testing FAQs

+ Are placement tests timed?

No, you are free to complete the placement test at your own pace. While it is preferable that you complete the assessment in one sitting, if you need to exit the math portion for any reason, you will be able to log back in and pick up where you left off. The English assessment must be completed in one sitting. Students should allow adequate time for testing, and so should arrive no later than one hour (two or more is recommended) prior to posted Testing Center closing times for on campus testing.

+ What is my placement result?
  • In most cases, you will receive your results* immediately upon completion of your placement test.
  • Your placement test results are accessible by your Academic Advisor who will meet with you to review the scores and related course placement.
  • Test scores may be accepted for placement for two years from the date of testing.

*Your ALEKS math placement score can also be viewed by re-entering ALEKS using the same access link for which you took the Placement Assessment.

+ May I use a calculator while taking the math placement test?

Unless specific accommodations are deemed necessary by the Accessibility Services Office, the ALEKS math placement assessment will provide an on-screen calculator if you need one to complete a particular problem. Otherwise, you may not use a calculator. Scratch paper and pencil is provided.

+ What if I do not place into the course I wanted?

This is a perfect opportunity to take advantage of Sinclair’s Tutoring and Learning Center (TLC) and/or the Prep and Learning Modules offered within the ALEKS math placement assessment. After discussing your placement results with your Academic Advisor, you may visit the TLC to refresh your reading, writing and math skills prior to retesting. An online individualized study plan will also be created based on your initial math assessment. The ALEKS Prep and Learning Modules will identify what you know and what you are ready to learn next so you can brush up on your math skills. More information on remediation will be provided after your initial assessment.

+ Must I work in my ALEKS Prep and Learning Module between math placement attempts?

Yes. After testing students should meet with an Academic Advisor to review scores and determine the appropriate course placement. If retesting is recommended, you are required to work in the Prep and Learning Modules for a specific amount of time prior to each Placement Assessment to increase success. Students are required to complete at least five (5) hours in the Prep and Learning modules before attempting each of the remaining attempts.

+ Is there an additional fee for my Prep and Learning Module?

There is no fee. Access to the ALEKS Prep and Learning Modules is included along with the additional placement assessment attempts.

+ Does progress in an ALEKS Prep and Learning Module count toward placement?

No. You must complete another math placement attempt to change your placement result. Once you have completed at least five (5) hours in the Prep and Learning Modules, you may visit a Testing Center location to retake the math placement test.

+ Can I retake the placement test?

Yes, you may retake the English placement test no sooner than twenty-four (24) hours after your initial assessment. However, it is recommended that students meet with their Academic Advisor and complete any suggested remediation prior to retesting. Students may take the English placement test a maximum of two times in a calendar year.

You may also attempt up to four (4) more ALEKS Placement Assessments after your initial assessment at no cost. However, to make each attempt worthwhile, it is important that you meet with your Academic Advisor and, spend time working in your ALEKS Prep and Learning Module between assessments so that you can improve your skills. Before attempting the next available placement assessment a student MUST complete at least five (5) hours in the Prep and Learning Modules. ALEKS will track the time and will indicate when the next assessment is available. You have twelve (12) months from your initial assessment date to complete your four (4) remaining attempts.