Placement Testing FAQs
WHAT PLACEMENT TEST IS ADMINISTERED AT KEAN?
Kean University administers the Essay, Reading, and Quantitative Reasoning, Algebra, and Statistics (QAS) sections of the Next-Generation ACCUPLACER Computerized Placement Test.
Students with higher-range scores on the Quantitative Reasoning (QAS) section will also be administered the Advanced Algebra and Functions (AAF) section. For detailed descriptions of the test sections and sample questions, click on the Next-Generation ACCUPLACER Tests link at the top of this page.
HOW/WHEN SHOULD I REGISTER FOR PLACEMENT TESTING?
Although Kean conducts many test sessions for incoming students, it is to your advantage to test as soon as possible. Postponing registration for testing can delay class registration and thereby limit your choice of classes. Students should register for a placement testing appointment immediately following official notice of acceptance to Kean from the Admissions Office. To schedule a placement testing appointment, click here.
DO ESL STUDENTS TAKE DIFFERENT PLACEMENT TESTS?
Yes, if a student reads and/or writes best in a language other than English, and may need to take English as a Second Language (ESL) courses, the ESL Placement Test is recommended. For further information about ESL placement testing please contact Kean University’s ESL Office at (908) 737-0420.
HOW LONG DOES TESTING TAKE?
All test sections are untimed, except the essay (50-minute time limit). Typically, students spend approximately 30 minutes on each multiple-choice test section.
HOW ARE PLACEMENT TEST RESULTS USED?
Placement testing provides information about your levels of proficiency in the skill areas tested (reading, writing, and math). This information is used to place students in appropriate-level courses. Based on scores some students will be placed in non-college-credit courses or intensive college-level courses designed to help improve basic skills and support college-level studies. It is very important to take testing seriously and perform to the best of your abilities.
HOW/WHEN WILL I BE NOTIFIED OF MY TEST RESULTS?
Students will receive an Individual Score Report (test results) immediately following the completion of placement testing.
WHERE ARE KEAN’S PLACEMENT TESTS ADMINISTERED?
All placement test sessions are held on Kean’s main campus, in the Center for Academic Success (CAS) building in room 207.
HOW CAN I ARRANGE FOR SPECIAL TESTING ACCOMMODATIONS?
If you have a physical or documented learning disability that may entitle you to testing accommodations based on your individual needs, please contact:
Office of Accessibility Services, Downs Hall (DN 122),
(908) 737 - 4910 or email accessibilityservices@kean.edu
WHAT SHOULD I BRING TO THE TEST SESSION?
You should bring your confirmation letter so you have a record of exactly when/where you should report for testing. You will need your Kean student ID #. Also, you must present at least one valid photo ID (i.e. current Driver’s License, HS/College/University ID, State or Federal ID Card, Passport or Naturalization Card/Certificate of Citizenship) on the day of the test. Students arriving without a valid photo ID will be denied admission to the testing lab.
No cell phones, books, dictionaries, calculators, or papers of any kind are allowed in the test room. Anyone who gives or receives help during the test, or uses the Internet to obtain answers, will not be permitted to continue the test. Test scores can be invalidated if there is any reason to question their validity.
SHOULD I BRING A CALCULATOR TO THE TEST?
No, you cannot use your own calculator when taking the test.
HOW SHOULD I PREPARE FOR TESTING?
To ensure that test scores accurately represent skill levels, the tester may wish to review basic concepts in reading, grammar, and algebra prior to testing. Many students find that SAT Preparation or SAT review books are helpful in refreshing their basic skills. In addition, please click on the following tabs on this website and carefully read/review the following: Accuplacer Tests (Descriptions and Sample Questions)
HOW WILL I KNOW IF A TEST SESSION IS CANCELED?
If a placement test session is canceled, a message providing cancellation/rescheduling information will be sent via email.
WHERE SHOULD I PARK WHEN I COME TO A TEST SESSION?
Prior to your arrival on campus, please register your vehicle for Kean's e-Parking pass for visitors using this link: https://www.kean.edu/parking
Upon your arrival, you can park in the Visitor's Lot or any white-lined, non-reserved space on campus.
WHAT WILL HAPPEN IF I ARRIVE LATE TO A TEST SESSION?
The test administrator will not admit latecomers to the testing room once the test session is in progress, so you will have to arrange to test at another time.
CAN I TAKE THE PLACEMENT TEST AT ANOTHER COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY?
If a student plans to attend Kean University, it is strongly recommended to take the placement test at Kean. It may be possible to transfer placement test scores from another school, but not guaranteed and only if that school administers comparable sections of the Next-Generation ACCUPLACER test and if the school’s testing office is able/willing to provide us with a copy of your written essay.
CAN I TAKE THE TEST BEFORE I APPLY OR AM ADMITTED TO KEAN?
No, placement tests are only for Kean admitted students.
WILL MY TEST RESULTS AFFECT MY ADMISSION STATUS?
No. The placement test is not an admissions test. Test results are used for course placement purposes only.
CAN A STUDENT BE EXEMPT FROM PLACEMENT TESTING?
Some new, incoming students may be exempt from all or part of placement testing. This is determined by official SAT/ACT scores submitted to the University and/or coursework completed at other colleges.
WHO SHOULD I CONTACT IF I HAVE OTHER QUESTIONS ABOUT TESTING?
For inquiries contact the Placement Testing Office email testing@kean.edu.