Assessment Center

All students MUST have an application on file with Pierce College prior to taking the assessment test.

How does a student obtain authorization?
Do all English classes require an authorization to enroll in the class?
Do all Math classes require an authorization to enroll in the class?
Can students retake the assessments?
Can a student fail the assessment tests?
How does an English As A Second Language (ESL) student go about taking an Assessment Test?
How do students prepare for Assessments?
Where is the Assessment Center located?
How does a student challenge the results of their English and/or math scores?

1. How does a student obtain authorization?

By taking the assessment test at Pierce.

By taking the prerequisite course at Pierce or another college. Students need to present their transcripts from other colleges to the Graduation Office or the Assessment Center for authorization.

By taking the Assessment test at another college. Not all test results are acceptable; please refer students to the Assessment Center.

2. Do all English classes require an authorization to enroll in the class?


English 82, 84, 85, 86, 87 and English 21, 28, 101 and above require an authorization to be on file with the Assessment office.

3. Do all Math classes require an authorization to enroll in the class?


Most Math classes do require an authorization. The following classes are exempt from this policy: Math 105, 110 and 112.

4. Can students retake the assessments?


Students may retake the English assessment every year. Students may retake the Math assessment every 6 months. If you complete an English or math class, however, you may not test again to skip a prerequisite course.

NOTE -- Test results are valid for two years from the date of testing.

5. Can a student fail the assessment tests?


No. These tests are not graded on a "pass or fail" basis. Their purpose is to "assess" the student's needs and skills, and place the student in a class where he/she is most likely to succeed.

6. How does an English As A Second Language (ESL) student go about taking an Assessment Test?


We have special ESL tests available and they are offered several times a month. Students are scheduled for either ESL or ENL (English as an Native Language) at the time of application.

7. How do students prepare for these assessments?


Sample tests are available for English as a Native language, English as a Second Language, and Math. You may download them from the Pierce web site by clicking here.

8. Where are we located?


The Northeast corner of the Campus Center, as you enter from Parking Lot 7.

9. How does a student challenge the results of their English and/or math scores?


English and Math Advisiors are available to discuss you placement scores with you. Please contact the Assessment Center for more information.

ASSESSMENT OFFICE HOURS:

Monday through Thursday: 8:00 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.

Friday: Closed