Placement Testing

The first step in Highland Community College’s plan for student success is placement testing in reading, writing and math. By matching your first semester courses with your current skill levels, we can help you create a plan to reach your educational goals.

Placement testing is required of most students (see ACT scores below.) However, because we have an “open door” policy, test scores are not a condition of admittance. Placement tests are free and do not require an appointment.

Placement Test Schedule

View sample placement test questions.

To best provide a quiet, professional and stress-free testing environment for our students, the following guidelines have been established:

• Photo identification is required for all testing.
• All electronic devices will be checked in and stored in  the provided container.
• Snacks or drinks are not permitted in the testing areas.
• Children are not allowed into the testing lab.
• Unless specific accommodations have been made, the exams must be completed in one sitting.
  
• Please allow a minimum of 2 hours for testing.

• Scratch paper, pencils and a limited supply of  calculators will be available.

For more information about placement tests, call 815.599.3678 or email the Testing Center. Students requiring special testing accommodations should contact the ADA Services at 815.599.3582 or via email.

Students may also visit the ACT COMPASS® assessment website here.

HCC West

Placement testing services are available by appointment only at our Elizabeth campus. Students must schedule an exam at least 24 hours in advance. To schedule an appointment, contact HCC West at 815.858.2564 or email them. Visit HCC West online for more information about available classes.

ACT Scores

Highland Community College also accepts ACT scores in lieu of placement test scores. The ACT scores must be current, with testing dates in the prior two years. Documentation of the scores must be presented at the time of placement testing. A photo ID will be required. Students pursuing credits under the high school articulation agreements must take the appropriate Highland Community College placement test.

• Reading
  ACT score 20 or above No test required
  ACT score less than 20 Reading test required
• Writing
  ACT Score 22 or above English 121
  ACT Score less than 22 Writing sample required
• Mathematics
  ACT Score 23 or above No test required
  ACT Score less than 23 Math test required
• Geometry
  ACT Score 10 or above Geometry requirement met
  ACT Score less than 10 Must meet Geometry with high school or HCC courses