Frequently Asked Questions about Placement Tests:
Who needs to take the Placement Test?
Who is exempt from the Placement Test?
How is the Placement Test Administered?
Will I need to make an appointment for the test?
How long does the test last? Is it timed?
Is there a fee for the test?
What happens after the Placement Test?
What if I have SAT or ACT scores?
What if I don't plan on attending HCC but I need the CPT for another college?
What if I am a Dual Enrolled Student?
Who needs to take the Placement Test?
- New students seeking a degree who have not completed coursework at another college in the areas of English, Reading, or Mathematics.
- Students who have not taken the SAT or ACT test in the past two years, or whose SAT or ACT scores do not meet HCC's minimum requirement.
- Non-degree seeking students who want to take courses that require Placement Test scores.
Placement Test scores are valid for two (2) years.
Who is exempt from the Placement Test?
- Students whose scores were used for English and math course placement decisions even if the scores are over two years old.
- Students who have earned a grade of 'C' or higher in both a college-level English course and a college-level algebra course.
- Students who have previously attended another college or university and are enrolling in courses to transfer to their institution (not seeking a degree at HCC) are exempt unless enrolling in an English or mathematics course.
- Students who present SAT or ACT scores which meet the state's requirements. Scores are valid for two years. Any score that falls below the minimum requirement for exemption, will require the student to take the Placement Test in that subtest area.
How is the Placement Test Administered?
The Placement Test is offered in a computerized format. The test is untimed, and can take up to 3 hours to complete. Basic keyboarding skills are helpful. No calculators are allowed for the math portion of the exam.
Will I need to make an appointment for the test?
Please refer to each campus for appointment requirements. Links to each campus are listed on the left side of this page.
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How long does the test last? Is it timed?
The Placement Test is untimed and can take up to 3 hours to complete.
Is there a fee for the test?
As long as the student has applied to Hillsborough Community College by submitting an application the placement test does not cost anything. It is important to apply to the college first, because the student will be denied taking the Placement Test without an application on file.
What happens after the Placement Test?
The next step is to schedule an appointment to attend "New Student Orientation" where students receive their scores and discuss their schedule. Orientation is by appointment only! Transfer students complete an online Orientation.
What if I have SAT or ACT scores?
A student who presents current (taken within the last 2 years) official, SAT or ACT scores that meet the following state of Florida minimum requirements will be exempt from taking the Placement Test. SAT minimums are: 440=Verbal and 440=Math. ACT minimums are: 18=Reading, 17=English, and 19=Math. Scores must be presented to an Academic Advisor or Counselor. The next step is to make an appointment for New Student Orientation.
What if I don't plan on attending HCC but I need the Placement Test for another college?
Non-HCC students may take the CPT for a fee of $50.
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What if I am a Dual Enrolled student?
Students who wish to be Dual Enrolled must meet with an Advisor and receive a referral prior to testing. Click here for more information on the Dual Enrollment program.
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