Dakota County Technical College is part of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities system (Minnesota State) and, as such, we are required to assess new, incoming students' academic readiness. The test approved by Minnesota State to do this assessment is The College Board’s ACCUPLACER. ACCUPLACER scores are an important tool used by advisors to place students in courses that match their skill level and give them the best opportunities for success. The test is used within DCTC’s admissions and enrollment process. DCTC typically uses the Reading Comprehension, Arithmetic, Elementary Algebra and College Level Math portions of the ACCUPLACER. What portions a student needs to take is based on what DCTC program/major they are pursuing. Please note: DCTC will begin using the NextGen version of ACCUPLACER in January, 2019.
For an explanation of the test portions of the ACCUPLACER, go to: www.accuplacer.collegeboard.org/student/inside-the-test
Whether taking the ACCUPLACER the first time or retaking it, students are STRONGLY encouraged to prepare for the test as much as possible. Refer to the various preparation resources listed below to assist in the quest for better test scores. A prepared student can see a significant increase in their test scores and may help avoid having to take extra developmental courses thus saving time and money.
A number of college prep and ACCUPLACER prep resources are available through the online LearningExpress Library. The “Centers” on this website offer a number of resources for students but, in terms of ACCUPLACER preparation, the most helpful will be found in the “College Center” where there are a number of practice tests for each of the ACCUPLACER test areas. Here are the steps to access these resources:
For more information, contact: Karianne Loula at karianne.loula@dctc.edu or 651-423-8583.
This FREE web-based study app includes interactive practice tests in Arithmetic, Elementary Algebra, College-Level Math, Reading Comprehension and Sentence Skills. It is accessible from any computer, tablet or smartphone, The app will help students become familiar with the content and format of the ACCUPLACER Test questions AND will include “Learn as you go” tests that provides explanation of the correct or incorrect responses.
To access the app and create an account go to accuplacerpractice.collegeboard.org
This free PDF document gives you examples of the types of questions you will see when you take the ACCUPLACER test. It is useful for some fast and simple preparation prior to taking the test.
Download the free ACCUPLACER Sample Questions PDF Here
Diagnostic testing can help pinpoint what elements within certain ACCUPLACER tests need to be improved upon to score higher on the test. Scores may help the appropriate DCTC tutor assist in a student's preparation.
For more information, contact: Patrick Lair at patrick.lair@dctc.edu or 651-423-8399.
This free class is offered through Rosemount-Apple Valley-Eagan Community Education. Contact Dakota Valley Learning Center at 952-388-1980 or Cedar Valley Learning Center at 952-431-8316 for class dates, times and availability.
DCTC may consider waiving all or parts of the ACCUPLACER for students based on the possibilities below:
Students requiring test accommodations due to documented disabilities should contact Chris Tran, Disability & Access Services Advisor, at chris.tran@dctc.edu or 651-423-8217 for an appointment. Accommodations available include:
| Sept. 4 - Dec. 21 | WALK-IN TESTING (No Appointment Necessary) |
| Monday through Thursday | Between 8 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. |
| Fridays | Between 8 a.m. and 2 p.m. |
| Exceptions | NO TESTING ON: Nov. 12 (Veteran's Day) Nov. 22-23 (Thanksgiving Break) |
The retest policy allows students to retake all or parts of the test at a time of their choosing and, preferably, with adequate preparation. However, a student can only retest only once during a 6-month period. Students retesting at DCTC must pay a $5 retest fee at the Tuition Office before taking the test. Students are encouraged to check out if they are eligible for a test exemption based on ACT, SAT, or MCA scores, prior degree(s) or prior college coursework.
Students will receive their Individual Score Report immediately upon completion of their ACCUPLACER test. In most cases, students will speak with an advisor right away to have their scores interpreted. How a student does on the ACCUPLACER generally does not affect admissions to the college and to its programs. ACCUPLACER results help determine appropriate course placement in reading, writing and math courses.
Get the course placement grid for English and Math
