Placement Testing

English and math placement tests are mandatory and determine the courses for which a student may register. Students may submit qualifying ACT or SAT scores from within the last two years instead of taking placement tests. All placement scores, including ACT and SAT scores, are valid for two years from the test date.

To submit ACT or SAT scores, log in to act.org (ACT) or collegeboard.org (SAT) to send your scores electronically. You may also visit a campus Testing Center and print a copy of your unofficial score report. Valid photo identification is required.  

• Qualifying ACT Scores: English: 18 or higher; Math: 21 or higher
• Qualifying SAT Scores: English: 430 or higher; Math: 520 or higher

Students applying for College Credit Plus (CCP) must submit qualifying ACT or SAT scores or take the Tri-C placement tests. Visit the College Credit Plus Placement Testing webpage for more information.

Placement Test Prep

English Placement Test Prep (Required)
Complete the online English test prep module and submit proof of completion when you arrive for testing. Log in to my Tri-C Space, choose your New Student (Student) option, scroll down and select English Placement Prep. Follow instructions carefully. 

English as a Second Language (ESL) Placement Test Prep (Required)
Complete the online ESL test prep module and submit proof of completion when you arrive for testing. Log in to my Tri-C Space, choose your New Student (Student) option, scroll down and select ESL Placement Prep. Follow instructions carefully. 

Math Placement Test Prep
Students are encouraged to complete an initial practice ALEKS assessment prior to visiting a campus Testing Center to take the Math placement test. Log in to my Tri-C Space, choose your New Student (Student) option, scroll down and select Math Prep & Learn (ALEKS). You will complete a short survey and tools tutorial before starting the initial assessment. This assessment will not count for a score, and you should not use a personal calculator or outside assistance. 

Take Your Placement Tests

Placement testing can be completed at any campus Testing Center. All testing is administered on a walk-in basis at Eastern Campus, Metro Campus, Western Campus and Brunswick University Center. No appointments are taken. Appointments are required only at Westshore Campus. See your preferred Testing Center hours of operation prior to your visit. 

Students who live greater than 45 miles from a campus may contact their nearest campus Testing Center to discuss oportunities for remote placement testing at an approved location.

Testing Accommodations
Students who require or receive testing accommodations should contact Student Accessibility Services to schedule an intake appointment prior to taking the placement tests.

Additional information about Tri-C placement tests can be found using the navigation buttons below.

Explore Tri-C Placement Tests

What Items to Bring on Testing Day

Bring a valid photo ID and proof of required placement test prep completion (English, ESL, CCP Math).

Pencils and scrap paper are provided. Personal calculators are not permitted during the math placement test but an on-screen calculator is provided for select questions. English and math placement tests are untimed, but each test takes 60-90 minutes to complete on average.

Please know your preferred Testing Center hours of operation before your visit and arrive early enough to complete your tests before closing.  Placement tests may not be administered within one hour of closing time. 

Next Steps After Placement Testing

Upon completion of your placement tests, Testing Center staff will provide instructions for your next steps. Students who wish to improve their placement scores may be eligible to retest.