Computerized Placement Testing (CPT's)

How Do I Take a Test?

No appointment is necessary. Come to the CAS Testing Center located in DM213 in Danvers or LE232 in Lynn. CAS Testing Center hours are listed to the right. Please show up at least two hours before we close as testing usually takes between one and two hours.

NOTE: Occasionally an office will not be open during regular hours. It is always a good idea to call our CPT hotline at (978) 762-4000 x4376 before you come!

General Information

The College Board has developed ACCUPLACER Computerized Placement Tests (CPTs), with the help of committees of college faculty, to provide information about skill levels in reading, writing, English and mathematics. North Shore Community College uses these scores to determine appropriate course placement for students.

The tests are computerized, with students using either the keyboard or a mouse to enter answers. A Test Administrator is always present and has the ability to resolve any difficulties that may occur.

Each test is adaptive, so that the computer automatically determines which questions are presented based on correct responses to prior questions. This technique selects questions that are of an appropriate level of difficulty for the tester. With the exception of the essay, the tests are not timed. Students have one hour to complete the essay.

Eligibility

Any individual may take the Computerized Placement Tests at the Center for Alternative Studies and Educational Testing.

Preparation

The test is divided into two parts - communications and math. Communications is reading and writing. There are three levels of math: arithmetic, elementary algebra, and college level math. Study Guides are available on the right side of this page or by visiting the Center for Alternative Studies and Educational Testing in either Danvers and Lynn.

Admission to the Test

Testing takes place in room LE232, Lynn Campus or DM213, Danvers Campus. A photo ID (valid driver's license or school ID with photo) and signature are required for admission to a testing session. Calculators and dictionaries are not permitted. Scrap paper and pencils are provided. Scoring

Testers receive a numerical score for each portion of the test when testing is complete. The Student Support Center provides score interpretation at orientation or by individual appointment.

Distance Learning

If you live outside of the North Shore Community College geographic area and need to take a Computerized Placement Test at another location, please call (978) 739-5429 or email cas@northshore.edu for information about how to locate a local testing center.

Accommodations for Students with Disabilities

If you have a documented disability and need testing accommodations, contact Disability Services well in advance of your testing.

Confidentiality

The Center for Alternative Studies and Educational Testing will not provide information to any external sources regarding an individual's test scores unless written permission is received from the student. This policy is in accordance with the student confidentiality policy of North Shore Community College.


For more information, please contact us in Danvers at (978) 739-5429, in Lynn at (781) 593-6722 x6695, or online at cas@northshore.edu.