Testing FAQ & Prep

The Accuplacer is a made up of a series of testing sections that evaluate students' skills in Reading, Writing, and Math to help college administrators place students from different high school backgrounds in courses that match their skill level. Both KCKCC and JCCC utilize this test, as well as the state of Texas. Some sections of the Accuplacer may not be necessary if students meet alternative placement criteria such as achieving a high ACT or SAT score. 

Sections of the Accuplacer may be required for KCKCC Dual Enrollment or TEC programs through Bonner Springs High School if the student does not meet alternative GPA and English grade criteria. 

The ASVAB is a standardized test that reveals areas of strength and ability in science, math, and language. It is also a helpful measure to know what occupational strengths may be for placement in a military career.

It is more common for colleges and other institutions to consider admission requirements that are "test optional." A test-optional college lets students decide whether they want to submit test scores with their application. Most test-optional schools will consider SAT and ACT scores if they are submitted, but focus on other factors they believe are stronger predictors of a student’s potential to succeed in college. These schools look at a student’s essays, recommendations, grades, and coursework just as (or more) closely than your test scores.

Just because your college doesn't require the ACT, it may still be in your best interest to take this test and to score well. ACT scores  can qualify you for more scholarship money! In some situations, an ACT score may help you become eligible for a specific school or program in case your GPA doesn't qualify you. 

YES! Even if you feel that college is not a part of your path, you should take advantage of a free opportunity to familiarize yourself with this test. Students who test in a familar setting tend to score better than they would at an unfamiliar testing site. You may perform better than you had anticipated and become eligible for technical schools, colleges, and scholarships. Not to mention, this test is offered by the State of Kansas for FREE.

Most colleges will accept either test and follow an equivalency table to convert scores if a certain level of one test is preferred. The tests are similar, but there are differences between the two.  It would be wise to know what test scores are required for your institution of choice, and prepare for your standardized test with specific strategies designed for that test.

For more information on the distinctions between the two different tests, please read more here.