Assessment Testing
North Shore Community College is committed to student success by ensuring that all students are assessed and placed in courses which are appropriate to their academic skills. Students who cannot document proficiency (see Basic Skills Core/Proficiency Requirements) are required to complete Computerized Placement Tests (CPTs) to establish current ability in reading, writing, and math. The results of CPTs are used to determine appropriate course placement. These tests also verify communications and/or math proficiency for courses listing these as prerequisites. Students may drop in for testing at the Center for Alternative Studies and Educational Testing on either campus. Review materials are available in the Center for Alternative Studies and Educational Testing, in the Student Support and Advising Centers or online.
Results of placement tests may indicate need for courses in reading, writing, and/or math at the pre-college level. These foundation classes are designed to prepare students for college level courses required for a degree or certificate program. These courses are developmental in nature and do not count toward a degree or certificate and are not transferable to another college.
Students whose first language is not English are assessed in the Center for Alternative Studies and Educational Testing to evaluate their English speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills and to determine appropriate placement into ESL classes.