Preparing for Placement Testing
Once accepted, you can register for placement testing through your Applicant Dashboard, where you’ll also find your acceptance letter and network account letter with instructions on how to activate your account. You will need your login credentials to complete the placement test.
Practice tests are an excellent way to prepare for placement testing. They will give you an idea of what to expect and help you identify where you need to brush up. To take advantage of sample math tests, register here using your first and last name and your personal email. A username and password will be provided. You’ll receive results automatically after finishing.
Taking Your Math Placement Tests
If you choose to meet placement requirements through testing, you'll need to take two of the three tests below. All tests are taken online via the Student Portal using your PCT username and password.
Pre-Algebra/Elementary Algebra
Measures ability to perform basic operations and to solve problems that involve pre-algebra and elementary algebraic skills and concepts.
- 45 minutes
- 58 questions
Intermediate Algebra
Measures ability to perform basic algebraic operations and to solve problems that involve intermediate algebraic skills and geometry concepts.
- 30 minutes
- 26 questions
Functions & Graphs
Measures ability to perform operations and to solve problems that involve functions and graphs. Readiness for calculus is determined through the use of algebraic, trigonometric, exponential, and logarithmic functions.
- 45 minutes
- 37 questions
Receiving Your Results
Three-Part Evaluation
Our math faculty determine the best placement for students. They take three things into consideration while making their assessment. These include:
- Placement Test Scores
- Transcripts
- Student Completed Math Information Form
Notification of Results
After successfully completing the placement test, it may take up to two weeks for faculty to score and release results. You'll receive an email notification prompting you to log into the Student Portal when your results are available.
Placement Testing with Accommodations
To ensure an equal playing field for all students, accommodations are available for eligible students. Some examples include having extra time or working with a test reader. Check out Disability and Access Resources for a more complete list.
The accommodation approval process typically takes 1-2 business days. Accommodations need to be approved prior to placement testing. Accommodations can be arranged based on a history of the accommodations you received during high school. However, documentation of your disability is needed for accommodations as an enrolled student. To get started, complete the self-disclosure form.
International Students
Placement requirements must be met before an offer of acceptance will be made. You’ll receive 1.5 times the usual allotted time to complete placement testing.
Spring Start: Placement testing must be completed by October 1
Fall Start: Placement testing must be completed by May 1