Questions and Answers
How long are placement test scores valid?
English and reading scores are valid for up to 3 years while math scores are only good for one year. If a student is re-matriculating and took only non-credit/developmental classes, they must re-test if their scores are no longer valid.
Will I be able to retake the placement test?
Retesting of any part of the placement test is not permitted. Questions regarding the retesting policy must be submitted to David Yahnke, Placement Testing Center Coordinator.
Can I take the placement test off-campus?
Students who live more than 60-miles from the Mohawk Valley Community College can choose to complete placement testing off-campus by finding a proctor to administer the test for them. Many colleges and universities have testing centers that allow students from other schools to take tests. There may be a fee per each exam taken. Students are responsible for all fees incurred while taking exams.
Proctored Exam
Proctors are individuals that are responsible for supervising you as you take an exam. Proctors are needed to ensure educational integrity while the student is taking the exam. Examples of acceptable proctors are:
- College Testing Center
- College Librarian
Relatives, friends, or co-workers are NOT eligible to proctor exams. If you have questions about proctor requirements, please call (315) 792-5458 or (315) 731-5802. After you have found your proctor, please fill out our MVCC Proctor/Agreement/Request Form at least three (3) days before you plan to take the test.
Proctors must have a professional email address ending in .edu, .gov, etc. Hotmail, Yahoo, Gmail or similar addresses will NOT be accepted.
Service Charge
A service charge will be assessed for students looking to use MVCC's placement testing lab for proctored exams by other colleges. If you have questions, please contact the Placement Testing Center.
Additional Guidelines
Students with low reading scores:
Students with low reading scores (below 46) should be limited to the minimum full-time course load including DS051, ED112, EN099, and other courses that do not require significant textbook reading such as: PE, ED100, AA107, or courses in studio art or trades.
If a student has a borderline reading score of 56-75, you may encourage the student to re-take the placement test. While students rarely do better in math on the test without preparation, it is common for students to do better on the reading portion and avoid non-credit developmental courses.
What if a student tests into EN101/EN110 AND DS051 or DS090?
Students who test into EN101 or EN110 and DS051 or DS090 should be placed into EN106. EN106 is a 4 credit hybrid class that counts the same as EN101/EN110 toward degree requirements.
What is the difference between MA045 and MA050?
Both MA045 (Basic Math Skills) and MA050 (Introduction to Mathematics) have teachers and may use at least some lecture format. However, MA045 involves collaborative (small group) learning and all students take exams at set times. MA050 is self-paced involving mostly independent learning with the instructors often teaching one-on-one like a tutor. Students take most tests when they feel they are individually ready; students may spend less time on topics they find easier, and more time on topics they find more difficult.
How should a student decide between MA108, MA110, or MA115?
Students who have plans to transfer or reach higher levels of math should ALWAYS choose to take MA115 (Intermediate Mathematics). MA115 is a prerequisite to a number of upper level math classes at MVCC and other institutions. MA110 (Elementary Statistics) always transfers; however it will not assist the student who needs to take an upper level math course. MA108 (Concepts of Mathematics) should only be taken when a student’s degree program does not require a higher level math course.
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David Yahnke
Placement Testing Coordinator
Phone: (315) 792 - 5458
Nolan Snyder
Technical Assistant
Phone: (315) 731 - 5802
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Utica - Payne Hall 104A
Email Placement Testing
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