Placement Testing

The first step in Highland Community College’s plan for student success is placement testing. These tests are really skills assessments. By matching your first semester courses with your current skill levels in reading, writing and math, we help you create a plan to reach your educational goals.

Placement testing is required for most students. However, because we have an “open door” policy, test scores are not a condition of admittance. You can become familiar with the placement test by downloading a sample placement test on our web site.

Placement tests are free and do not require an appointment. Academic placement tests are administered through the Learning Assistance Center (LAC) at various times each semester. The LAC is located in the Marvin-Burt Liberal Arts Building (M) on the first floor room M-147.

Placement testing at HCC West can be done during the day or evening by appointment.

Highland Community College also accepts ACT scores in lieu of placement test scores. The ACT scores must be current, with testing dates in the prior two years. Documentation of the scores must be presented at the time of placement testing. A photo ID will be required. Students pursuing credits under the high school articulation agreements must take the appropriate Highland Community College placement test.

Reading
ACT score 20 or above No test required
ACT score less than 20 Reading test required

Writing
ACT Score 22 or above English 121
ACT Score less than 22 Writing sample required

Mathematics
ACT Score 23 or above No test required
ACT Score less than 23 Math test required

Geometry
ACT Score 10 or above Geometry requirement met
ACT Score less than 10 Must meet Geometry with high school or HCC courses

Placement Test Schedule

Call 815.599.3678 for more information.