Why should I take a placement test?

The purpose of placement tests is to assure that students begin their college studies in classes in which they have the best chance of success. Initial placement in classes is recommended on the basis of test scores and other factors which may be discussed with your counselor.

Placement tests are available in the following subjects:

  • English for sentences
  • English for reading
  • English as a Second Language (ESOL)
  • Math

To view sample tests, please Click on the left.

About the Test

Skyline College utilizes computerized testing for all its placement tests (Math, English, and ESOL). The tests are in an adaptive format that adjusts the difficulty of the test to the skills of the individual student, eliminating questions that are too easy or too difficult. The tests are un-timed. The average length of time varies from forty-five minutes to two hours.

Important! Complete the placement tests early to secure your registration into a class.

Who takes placement tests?

Placement tests are available to all students planning to enroll at Skyline College who:

  • Seek a degree or vocational certificate from the college
  • Intend to transfer to a four-year college or university
  • Intend to take an English or mathematics course

Students are EXEMPT from testing if they have an Associate in Arts or Associate in Science or higher Degree or if they have already passed a college English or mathematics course.

Do I take the English or ESOL Placement test?

The English Placement test is for:

  • Native English speakers
  • Placement into English and reading classes
  • Students who speak English at home

Completion of English 836, ENGL 846 (both non-transferable), or ESOL 400 satisfies the graduation requirements for Skyline College. Completion of English 100 and English 110 or 165 are required for transfer to the University of California and California State University systems.

The ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) placement test is for:

  • Non-native English speakers (or English Language Learners)
  • Placement into ESOL English and reading classes
  • Students who speak another language at home

Retest Policy for Placement Testing

Placement test results are valid for two years. If a student does not accept the recommended placement he/she may retake the same placement test one additional time within a two-year period. In order to retake the same test, the student must wait a minimum of 14 days from the initial test date.

A student who has completed a course in the English, ESOL, or math sequence may take the placement test to determine his/her current competency level in English, ESOL, and math courses, provided that two years have elapsed since the course was completed in the sequence.

In any other special circumstances or with an instructor recommendation, a student may petition to retest through the Testing office located at 2233.

The Ed Policy Committee approved these policies on November 7, 2006.

Reciprocity of Placements Policy

A student may submit placement recommendations from another California Community College in lieu of taking the placement tests at Skyline College, if the placement test was taken within the last two years and the tests are consistent with the Skyline placement test. It is a student's responsibility to provide placement test results for counselor review.

Placement Center
Bldg 2, Room 2232
Skyline College
3300 College Drive
San Bruno, CA 94066
Phone: 650-738-4150
Fax: 650-738-4218

Andy Davis
Placement Coordinator

 


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