Jackson Community College

Course Placement

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Course Placement?

JCC’s Course Placement is an assessment of your writing, reading and math skills, to help place you in appropriate courses.

Do I need Course Placement?

If you answer "no" to all of these, attend Course Placement.

• Do you plan to take a JCC course for personal interest?
• Do you have an ACT score of at least 18 in Math, English, Reading taken in the last 3 years? If you received less than 18 in any subject area, you will need to take that area of course placement.
• Do you have SAT Scores that are less than 3 years old?
  
• Have you taken a Course Placement assessment at another college within the last 3 years?
• Have you successfully completed college coursework (a college transcript evaluation may exempt you)?

Do I have to bring anything?

Bring your Student ID Number and a state-issued photo ID. We will provide all other materials.

Can I use a Calculator?

Only the upper level portions of the math assessment may allow for a calculator. Plan on using a pencil and scrap paper for your math work. We will provide your pencils and paper.

When can I complete course placement?

Course Placement is offered through out the year at Jackson Campus in the Testing Lab in Atkinson Hall.  Course Placement is also offered at JCC @ Vo-Tech and at the LeTarte Center, Hillsdale.  Please allow 2 hours to complete Course Placement.

What are the parts of Course Placement?

Writing Section: You will choose from several different topics and write your opinions. The topics are about current events or personal issues, such as health care or underage smoking.

Writing Sample: Download Here

Reading Section: This test is designed to measure how well you understand what you read.
Note: A computer is used for this portion of the test.

Reading Sample: Download Here

For more help, you can check out these links:

Accuplacer Sample Test

Academic Skills Center - Pratice Tests

Accuplacer Pratice Test - Reading Comprehension

Math Section: The three parts to the Math placement determines your readiness from basic mathematics all the way to Intermediate Algebra. Note: A computer is used for this portion of the test.

For more help, you can check out this link:

Mathematics & Engineering - Placement Assistance

Math Sample: Download Here

How long will Course Placement take me?

We don't limit the time you can spend on your Course Placement. For your planning purposes, however, you should allow up to 40 minutes for Writing, up to 35 minutes for Reading and up to 45 minutes for Math. The total for all three parts could take nearly 2 hours. Take as much or as little time as you need, but remember the results will determine what classes you need to take first.

Do I have to take all three parts at once?

No. You can take the parts on different days, but remember to complete all of them at least one week before your Orientation. You must use your Student ID for each part so that we can match your records.

Can I fail Course Placement?

No. This is an assessment tool that helps JCC Advisors place you in appropriate courses so you can succeed.

Will I have to take classes I don't need for my degree?

If you aren't prepared for college-level classes, your degree will be very difficult to earn. We want you to be successful, which means you need to complete the courses determined by your placement. Most forms of financial aid require you to pass your classes to continue receiving aid. Preparing yourself academically is in your best interest and is required by JCC faculty.

How do I find my ACT and SAT scores?

If you don’t have a copy of your scores, they may be recorded on your high school transcript.

How do I submit placement scores from another college for review?

Provide a copy of the assessment to the JCC Admissions Office.

What documentation is needed to show previous college coursework?

Unofficial copies are sufficient for advising and exception purposes.  Only official transcripts will be evaluated for transfer credit.