College Placement Testing (CPT)
MHCC uses Accuplacer for our College Placement Test (CPT). The test is used to decide reading, writing, and mathematics course placement and prerequisite levels. The test is a computer-based, multiple-choice test offered all year. MHCC uses the reading, writing, arithmetic, quantitative algebra, and advanced algebra tests.
How, When, and Where to Take CPTs
You can choose to take the placement test either in-person or remotely. In-person testing is available Monday, Tuesday, Thursday & Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Remote testing is offered through an online proctoring service called Examity and is available 24 hours a day.
To schedule an appointment, please complete the College Placement Test request form. Testing staff will respond to your request by email within one business day. Please email testing services with questions.
College Placement Test Request Form
How to Prepare for the CPT
We recommend that you practice for the test and review English and math concepts by using Accuplacer’s free study app. Even a little bit of review can make a huge difference in your course placement, which will save you both time and money!
- Relax! The CPT is designed to help you be successful in school. This is not a pass or fail test. Your scores help us see which courses are best for your current level of knowledge and skills.
- You will be better able to focus if you get plenty of rest and eat properly before the test.
- Be sure you understand the directions for each test before you begin each section. Ask questions if you need to.
- Pace yourself. Remember, this test is not timed. Allow yourself plenty of time—do not put yourself in a situation where you must rush through the test.
What Happens after the CPT?
You will receive a copy of your CPT scores right after your test and your results will be uploaded into your MHCC record right away. You are highly encouraged to drop into the hub or make an appointment with an academic advisor for help with planning your classes and registering.
Visit the hub
Drop into the student services hub at the Gresham Campus, Room AC2253 to get help getting ready for your first term and to sign up for classes. The hub is open on a drop-in basis on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. and Wednesdays from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Meet with an Advisor in-Person or Online
Schedule a meeting with an academic advisor to receive help. Meetings are offered both in person and via Zoom. Email the advising office for an appointment or call 503-491-7315.
Accuplacer Cut Scores and Course Placement
Placements based on quantitative analysis, algebra, and statistics (QSA) and advanced algebra and functions (AAF) scores are listed below.- Accuplacer scores are valid for up to five years.
- Smarter Balanced scores are valid for 18 months.
- GED scores are valid for five years.
- High school GPA must be cumulative and include at least the first semester of senior year, if you are still attending high school.
- High school GPA is valid for five years after graduation.
Reading
- Accuplacer score 200-212: ABE Adult Basic Education
- Accuplacer score 213-233: RD090 Effective Reading and Learning Strategies
- Accuplacer score 234-250: RD115 Reading for College Success
- Accuplacer score 251-300: RD117 Critical Reading
Writing
- Accuplacer score 200-222: ABE Adult Basic Education
- Accuplacer score 223-240: WR 090 Writing Skills: Paragraph to Essay
- Accuplacer score 241-255: WR 115 Introduction to College Writing
- Accuplacer score 241-300: WR 101 Workplace Communications I
- Accuplacer score 256-300: WR 121 Composition I
Mathematics
- Arithmetic score 0-232: MTH010 Conceptual Arithmetic
- Arithmetic score 233-263: MTH020 Applied Arithmetic and Pre-algebra
- Arithmetic score 264-300 or QAS score 226-241: MTH060 Beginning Algebra I or MTH058 Quantitative Reasoning I
- QAS score 242-253: MTH065 Beginning Algebra II
- QAS score 254-274 or AAF score 216-233: MTH095 Intermediate Algebra
- QAS score 275-300 or AAF score 234-248: MTH105 Math in Society or MTH111Z Pre calculus I: Functions or MTH211 Fundamentals of Elementary Math I
- AAF score 249-283: MTH112Z Pre-calculus II: Trig or STAT243 Elementary Statistics
- AAF score 284-300: MTH251 Calculus I
Take the next step with Mt. Hood Community College
Have questions about testing at MHCC?
Schedule an appointment with an advisor