PLACEMENT TESTING INFORMATION

Who must take assessment tests? To assure the integrity of degree programs and a student’s ability to succeed in college courses, the West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission (August 2002) established uniform standards for placement of students in college-level mathematics and English courses. Upon admission, all degree and certificate objective students are required to take course placement tests in reading, writing, arithmetic, and elementary algebra to assess their current skills if ACT/SAT scores are not available and/or do not meet requirements. Also, students not seeking a degree or certificate must meet these requirements before registering for any class with an applicable prerequisite. The following table identifies scores required on ACT/SAT tests (if available) or on WVNCC ASSET or COMPASS Assessment Tests. A student scoring lower in each area will be required to take the transitional education course(s) identified.

When does a student test? Students are required to take these tests prior to registering for their first class to determine appropriate course placement(s). Students may retest in any of the required subject areas one time. Students must wait at least five days between testing and retesting. Student may not retest after having attended the transitional education course for that subject. Retesting should be completed during the student’s first semester. Students being retested will be charged an $8 fee.

How is testing arranged? Group testing sessions are scheduled at a variety of times on each campus prior to the beginning of each semester to accommodate students’ needs. Information regarding placement testing is (1) mailed to newly accepted students, (2) available from each campus counselor, and (3) posted near each Student Service Center. Students can register for a testing session through the campus counselor. Students requiring only partial testing may sign up through the campus counselor for individual testing times.

Alternate testing arrangements can be made for students with documented physical or learning disabilities. The Campus Counselor can arrange necessary modifications to enhance the student’s chance for success. Extended time limits, alternative testing dates or physical adaptations are examples of modified arrangements.

 

Wheeling Campus Counselor	Candice Stadler	304-214-8946
Weirton Campus Counselor	Lisa Soly	304-723-7515
New Martinsville Campus Counselor	Lisa Slie	304-510-8769