Testing Office [T-601]

The City University of New York mandates that all incoming degree-seeking students, as well as students entering the upper division, meet standards of proficiency in the basic skill areas of reading, writing and mathematics. In addition, the University requires students in both associate and baccalaureate programs to demonstrate their command of certain vital academic skills by the time they attain their 60th credit.

Accommodations for a required test based on disabilities are granted to students in compliance with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act. Students who wish to seek such an accommodation must be registered with the College’s office serving students with disabilities.

Freshman Course Placement

AFTER acceptance by the College, but BEFORE registration, entering matriculated students (and non-degree students attempting to achieve matriculation) will be required to demonstrate basic skills proficiency. This requirement can be met by meeting the exemption criteria or by taking the CUNY Assessment Tests in Reading, Writing, and the ACCUPLACER CUNY Assessment Test in Math. Results of these tests, and/or pre-college exemptions, determine specific course assignments in appropriate English and mathematics courses.

Skills Assessment Testing

Approximately 5,000 students are tested each year. The tests evaluate student skills in reading, writing and mathematics. All incoming degree-seeking students are required to take these examinations or be otherwise exempted. The results of the examinations are key to determining the need for developmental instruction, as well as placement in the sequence of English and mathematics courses.

Basic Skills Proficiency

Students must meet standards of proficiency in the basic skills areas of reading, writing and mathematics established by the University. In addition, the CUNY Board of Trustees has mandated that students meet a University-wide minimal level of skills proficiency before entrance to the upper division. Consequently, students will be tested in these areas by taking the CUNY Assessment Tests in Reading, Writing, and ACCUPLACER CUNY Assessment Test in Math after admission, but prior to their first registration, to determine whether they meet the minimal University standards. Those who initially fail to meet requirements will be given appropriate developmental instruction to assist them to achieve the required skills competency levels.