Placement Testing
Most first-time students admitted to HCC are required to take a placement test. Administered on a computer, it tests basic academic skills in English and mathematics. This information assists students and the College in making decisions about placement in particular courses or about the course selection suited to the student's level of preparation. Test scores remain valid for two years without the student needing to be retested. For further information on the Accuplacer placement test and a list of internet sites to help you prepare for the test, visit the HCC homepage at www.hcc.commnet.edu and click on “Testing Services”.
The following students are required to take the test:
- All first-time students enrolled in a degree or certificate program;
- Any student who does not initially seek a degree or certificate but who registers for a course that would result in the accumulation of 12 or more credits;
- Any transfer student who has not successfully completed an English composition course or a college-level math course (transcripts required);
- Any student electing to take an English writing course or a mathematics course;
- Any student electing to take English as a Second Language courses.
When the Test is Given
Placement testing is regularly scheduled throughout the year. Call (203) 332-5019 to schedule an appointment. Please note: you must apply for admissions and have a student Banner ID number in order to take the test.
Test Waivers
Placement testing may be waived for students under the following conditions:
- Students who have completed a college-level English and/or math course with a grade of “C” or better. Official documentation is required.
- Students who have an Associates Degree or higher may be exempt from testing. Official transcripts must be provided; however, unofficial transcripts may be used for advising and placement purposes.
- Students with SAT scores of 500 in Math, 450 in Critical Reading and/or 450 in Writing can request a Placement Test Waiver Form from the Admissions Office. SAT scores are valid for two years from the day of the test.
Credit (by examination) for Experiential Learning
Educational experiences gained outside of the traditional college setting through employment, military, volunteer work or independent study activities may be valid towards completing degree requirements. Students who have enrolled in a degree or certificate program at HCC may be granted credit and advanced standing for such experiences, if applicable.
If you wish to earn credit for experiential learning, you must complete either a Challenge Exam Form or a Portfolio Assessment Form from the Admissions Office and submit it to the appropriate academic department for approval. Upon approval, arrangements will be made for completing either a standardized or departmental test or other assessment procedure for determining if credit will be granted. The Academic Advising Center will notify you of credit awards. As per Board Policy, no more than fifty percent of an approved program may be awarded for prior experiential learning. All work must be completed within one year from the initial date of the request.
CLEP/DSST Examinations
The College Level Examination Program (CLEP) and DSST (DANTES) exams are widely accepted credit-by-examination programs, which allow you to earn college credit by demonstrating college-level knowledge gained through prior academic study, independent study, or professional experience.
Exams are 90 minutes in length and cover a wide range of academic subjects. Upon successful completion, you will be granted credits determined by HCC. These credits will appear on your transcript but are not used for calculating your Grade Point Average or your eligibility for Academic Honors designation at graduation. For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact the Academic Support Center (B116) at (203) 332-5217.