1. Why do I need a placement test?
The purpose of placement is to ensure that you begin your college experience at the appropriate course level and to help facilitate future success in your college career. Your test results will assist you and your counselor to select appropriate classes.
2. Who needs placement?
New and returning students having a goal of transferring to a four-year college or university.
Students earning a vocational certificate
Students earning an Associate degree
3. Are there special accommodations for students with disabilities?
Yes, students who have a physical, visual, communication or learning disability may be eligible to take your placement test with extended time. We recommend you contact the DSPS (Disabled Students Programs and Services) Office located in the Student Services One-Stop Center in Building 2, room 2243, or call the DSPS office at (650) 738-4280.
4. What do I need to do prior to taking the placement test(s)?
You must file a current application for admission to Skyline College. An online application or you may file a paper version application which is included in the class schedule.
5. What is a matriculation ticket?
A matriculation ticket is a Blue ticket that explains the five matriculation steps: admission, placement test, orientation, counseling, and registration. You may obtain a matriculation ticket after you complete an online application from Admissions & Records office located in the Student Services, Building 2.
6. How long do I need to wait to take a test after submitting my application?
Please allow a 24-hour processing time for the online application and 3-5 business days for the paper version application prior to testing.
7. Can I make an appointment to take the placement test?
You can sign-up for a test date here or call the placement Office at 650-738-4164.
8. What do I need to bring on the day of the test?
Your photo ID and matriculation ticket.
9. I took an English, math, or ESOL class, but I dropped or withdrew from it, can I still take the placement test?
Yes, if you did NOT receive a final grade for the class AND you have not taken the same test twice or more within the past two years, you may take the placement tests again.
10. I forgot my photo ID, can I still take the placement test?
No.
11. I do not have a photo ID. What should I do?
You may bring other official documentation, such as passport or yearbook.
12. Do I need to pay for the test(s)?
No. All tests are free of charge for students with the intention of attending Skyline College.
13. How can I review sample questions prior to testing?
Sample questions are available online http://skylinecollege.edu/general/placement_testing/index.html. You may also pick up hard copies at the placement Center in Building 2, Room 2232.
14. What happens if I fail my placement Test?
The placement test are not Pass or Fail. The placement tests are NOT admission tests. The tests examine your present competency level in English, math and/or ESOL.
15. How many questions are there in the placement tests?
Computerized English Test (No Time Limit)
Part I: Reading Comprehension - 35 questions
Part II: Sentence Skills - 35 questions
Computerized ESOL Test (No Time Limit)
Part I: Reading Skills - 20 questions
Part II: Language Use - 20 questions
16. How early should I come to take the placement tests?
Please arrive early enough before Placement Center closing time to complete appropriate tests.
English or ESOL test: allow 2 hours
Math test: allow 1.5 hours
English & math tests: allow 2.5 hours
ESOL & math Tests: allow 2.5 hours
17. Can I repeat the same test? If so, when?
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 not have completed a course in the sequence and must wait a minimum of 3 weeks from the initial test date. placement test results are valid for two years.
18 . Can I use a calculator or dictionary when taking the placement tests?
No.
19 . When will I get my test results?
You will receive a printed copy of your test results immediately upon completion. You may also check your test results on WebSMART the following business day.
20. Can you tell me my test results over the phone or via e-mail?
No. Test results are confidential and are disclosed via WebSMART or in-person with valid photo identification.
21. What should I do after I finish my placement test?
If you are a new or returning matriculating student, please proceed with orientation and counseling. A counselor will assist you with your class selection and educational planning.
If you are exempt from matriculation, please check your WebSMART account to view your registration appointment.
22. I took an placement test at another California community college. Can I use the test results and be exempt from the placement testing at Skyline College?
Depends on when and where you completed the placement tests. Please make an appointment with a counselor by calling 650-738-4465 and the counselor will assist you.
23. I do not know how to use a computer. Can I still take the placement tests?
Please call the placement Office at 650-738-4164 for more details.
24. I'm currently taking classes at a different college, but I want to take the placement tests and possibly take a higher level of English, math, or ESOL course at Skyline College. Can I do that?
Yes.
