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Accuplacer Dates

Assessment Information

All new students are required to take the Accuplacer assessment test before registering for classes unless the test is waived by a counselor or advisor. Applicants who have an AA, AS, BA, BS, MS, or doctorate and students presenting ACT scores meeting the college standards for English, Reading and Math are exempt from the assessment test. AA and AS students who have not completed their math requirement for a new degree will need to take the math subtest of the Accuplacer.

The Accuplacer is a computerized assessment test that provides information about your level of skill accomplishment in reading, writing and mathematics. Assessing your ability in these areas will help you and your counselor/advisor determine the classes for which you may register. The tests do not affect your admissions eligibility (unless you are a PSEO student).

  • You will take the test on a computer and use the keyboard and mouse to enter your answers and supply other information. A Test Proctor will be available if you have any questions during the test.

  • All questions are multiple choices. Tests are not timed so you can give each question as much thought as you wish. Most students complete the test within 1 1/2 to 2 hours. You will receive the test results when you meet with your counselor or academic advisor.

Accuplacer Dates

Course Prerequisites (PDF file)

Accuplacer Scores (PDF file)

There is no fee for the test. After taking the assessment test, you will be given information about orientation and registration.

Online/Distance Students
You are welcome to take the Accuplacer assessment test at a college near to your home and have the results sent to the admissions staff at the Minnesota West campus where you are applying.

Another alternative would be to complete the Accuplacer near your home with an approved proctor at a local college, high school, library, or learning center. Because of the confidentiality and security of the assessment testing, the student and proctor must make arrangements with us prior to doing the assessment.

To make arrangements, the student and/or proctor should contact:
Michael Fury
phone: 800-657-3966
email: mike.furyREMOVE-THIS@mnwest.edu.


Tips & Reminders for test day

  • Bring a picture ID and know your social security number.
  • The Accuplacer is computerized, but you need no previous experience with computers. It's simple to use.
  • You may not use calculators, dictionaries, notebooks or other papers of any kind. You can use scratch paper, which you will need to turn in upon completion of the test.
  • Results of computerized tests are available immediately.
  • Your scores are confidential and will be used by Minnesota West for advising and placement purposes only.
  • No fees are charged for taking the test.
  • It might be necessary to re-test portions of the exam. If so, you do not need to re-take those portions which you scored at a college level.

Students with disabilities who need accommodations must have ADA documentation and need to make prior arrangements with the admissions staff at the campus where you are applying.


Studying for the Accuplacer

To help you review for the assessment tests, the following websites are available. These sites provide sample test questions with answers, so you can become familiar with the test and practice the items.

Accuplacer Study Guide has sample test questions as well as general test information.

Math Review materials from Anoka-Ramsey Community College, Minnesota

Math Practice Exams from Anoka-Ramsey Community College, Minnesota

Sample Questions from Montgomery College, Maryland

Accuplacer Study Guides from Aims Community College, Colorado

Test Prep Review for the Accuplacer


If you have any questions about assessment testing, please contact the Minnesota West campus you would like to attend.

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