Computerized Placement Test (CPT)
The Computerized Placement Test (CPT) is used to determine the appropriate placement for you in writing, reading, math and study skills. Test scores that do not represent your best work may mean extra classes- and extra time. Higher scores may allow you to skip certain classes. It pays to do your best, so come prepared and well rested.
To view a video regarding placement testing, click the link below:
http://dss.linnbenton.edu/depts/devstudies/movies/cpt.wmv
The CPT is given by appointment. Refer to the list below for the phone number of the LBCC center you would like to test at.
Albany Campus (541) 917-4781
Corvallis Benton Center (541) 757-8944 ext 5101
Lebanon Center ( 541) 259-5800
Sweet Home Center (541) 367-6901
How much does it cost to take the CPT?
For those applying for full admission, the cost of the CPT is covered by the $30 application fee. The application fee must be paid before the test is taken. For those not applying for full admission the cost of the full CPT is $15.00; or $5.00 per subject test. There are three subjects; Reading, Sentence Skills (Writing) and Math.
What is on the test?
The questions on the test measure writing skills (English grammar), reading comprehension and skills in mathematics. The mathematics section will begin with questions in elementary algebra and, according to your math experience, you may be given additional questions in either arithmetic or college level math.
How long will it take?
The CPT is not a timed test. You should plan on spending approximately two hours for testing - more if you think you may need extra time.
What do I need to bring with me?
At the time of testing you must present photo identification and a receipt to verify payment of either the testing fee or application fee. You should know your Social Security number, but do not need to present your card.
Calculators are not permitted during placement testing, but scratch paper and pencils will be provided for your use. Electronic devices such as cell phones, pagers, etc are also prohibited in the testing room and must be turned off and given to Student Assessment staff prior to testing.
What if I speak English as a second language?
Plan to take the test, but note that your writing and reading scores may under-represent your abilities in those areas. You should plan to speak with a counselor (541)917-4781 or ESOL instructor (541)917-4700 for more information.
Can I prepare for the computerized placement test?
Type in "Accuplacer Practice Tests" or "Accuplacer Tests" in a search engine such as www.yahoo.com or www.google.com. You will find many links that provide resources to help you prepare. Below are a few links to websites that may be used to help you review and prepare for your placement test.
Websites that include information for reading, writing and math:
http://www.yccd.edu/assessment/sample.html
http://www.rockvalleycollege.edu/Admission/Testing/upload/ACCUPLACER-Resources.pdf
Websites specific for reading and writing:
http://www2.gsu.edu/~wwwrtp/instrdg.htm
Websites specific for math:
http://wtamu.edu/academic/anns/mps/math/mathlab/thea/math_help.htm
http://www.oit.edu/default.aspx?dn=21183,4678,2676,2,1,documents
What if I do poorly?
LBCC has an open admissions policy for students 18 and older. Students are never kept out of LBCC because of low test scores. The CPT is not a pass/fail test, it is designed to provide appropriate placement in writing, math and reading related classes according to your current abilities. Some programs have minimum score requirements for admission. Contact the Admissions office (541)917-4811 for further information concerning special admissions programs.
If you have significantly low scores, you will receive written notice from our Developmental Studies Department and be invited to speak with an LBCC counselor. You may be given an opportunity to retest.
For most students, low test scores simply mean you need to spend some time practicing writing, reading and/or math skills.
If you have questions about your test scores and what they mean, we encourage you to contact a counselor. The following information, "College Placement Test Indicator" will explain what scores are needed to place into a particular course.
It is possible to retake the entire CPT or a portion of the CPT for a fee. The cost is $5 for each individual test or $15 for the entire test. Contact Student Assessment if you feel one or more of your test scores misrepresents your abilities.
What if I have never used a computer?
Computer experience is not required to take the CPT. The test provides clear instructions and the Student Assessment staff will assist you with any questions you may have concerning directions.
What if I have a disability?
If you have a physical disability or a documented learning disability, you may qualify for special accommodations. You will need to contact Disability Services at (541)917-4789 to be approved for special accommodations.
What if I do not live close to LBCC and find it difficult to travel to the LBCC campus for testing?
Testers who live out of the local area of Linn-Benton Community College may be able to take the Computerized Placement Test without traveling to the campus. Use the following guidelines when arranging to take your placement test off campus.
- Fill out your Linn-Benton Community College application and pay the $30 application fee. This payment will need to be verified before you are allowed to test.
- Locate a qualified proctor who can administer your test. (A proctor is a person who supervises or monitors students taking an exam). Most colleges and universities have proctoring facilities. Other acceptable proctor sites are:
Schools (Teachers, Counselors, Principals)
Public Library
Government or Military OfficesThe proctor should not be a family member, friend or supervisor. Questions regarding acceptable proctors should be directed to Student Assessment at (541) 917- 4781 or e-mailed to onlinecpt@linnbenton.edu
Verify with the proctor that they have a computer with Internet access available for the test.
- When you have located a proctor, have him or her fill out the proctor section of the Placement and Proctor Approval Form (make sure they sign the form). The Placement and Proctor Approval Form should be filled out completely with student and proctor information. Click the following link for the Placement and Proctor Approval Form: proctor approval form.pdf
Important: If your proctor chooses to have the testing information mailed to them, allow two weeks between the date you send in your information and the date you schedule your test. For e-mail or faxing of information, allow one week from the date you send in your information.
After completing the form mail it to:
Student Assessment,
Linn-Benton Community College
6500 SW Pacific Blvd.
Albany, Oregon 97321
OR fax it to (541)917-4801.
Once your proctor form has been received, Student Assessment will send testing instructions and a password to your designated proctor.
