Academic Placement Testing
- What is the purpose of placement testing?
- What are the tests like?
- What should I do to prepare to take the test?
- How do I register to take the placement test?
- When will I receive my test results?
- What do my test results mean?
- Can I retake the placement test?
- When are placement tests scheduled?
- Sample Test Questions
What is the purpose of placement testing?
The purpose of this test is to help determine your level of skill in one or more academic areas. The information will be used to determine the most appropriate courses for you at this time. Unless testing has been waived by the Admissions and Records Office, students must take placement testing in reading, writing and mathematics prior to admission to their intended degree program under the Responsible Admission Policy. Students may be waived from placement testing with appropriate SAT scores, previous college course work, or other testing criteria. Non-degree students wishing to register for courses may also be required to take placement testing to determine the best courses to take.
What are the tests like?
UMA administers the Computerized Placement Tests (CPTs) in Reading Comprehension, Sentence Skills, Arithmetic Skills, Elementary Algebra and College-Level Mathematics. The tests are administered on a personal computer. It is an untimed multiple-choice exam.
When you first sit at the computer, you will be asked to enter some background information such as your social security number, name, address, date of birth, etc. The actual test questions will appear one at a time on the computer screen. The tests will ask you to select the correct response from among four or five alternatives presented in writing. You will choose your answer by moving the mouse pointer to the button next to your answer. Press the mouse button to select the answer. Then, move your mouse pointer to the "Next" button below the answer and press the mouse button. As soon as you have clicked on the "Next" button, a box will appear asking you to confirm your answer choice. If you believe your answer is correct, click "OK". If you wish to change your answer, click "Cancel". You can change your answer as many times as you wish until you have confirmed it. It is important that you answer every question. If you do not know the answer, make your best guess. You must enter one of the choices provided. Once you have confirmed your answer, you may not return to that question or any previous question.
No previous computer experience is needed in order to take the CPTs. A staff member at your testing location will greet you personally, help you get started, and be available should you have any questions as you take the tests. There is no time limit on the multiple choice tests, but the total testing time for most students who take the reading, writing and mathematics sections is 1-1/2 to 2 hours.
What should I do to prepare to take the test?
Descriptions of the tests are provided to help you become familiar with the format of the CPTs. Most students find it especially helpful to review math concepts before taking the tests. You will not be allowed to use a calculator during the mathematics tests, but scratch paper will be provided.
Make sure that you are well rested, comfortably dressed and not hungry when you come for testing. If you wear eyeglasses, don't forget to bring them along. You will be asked to show one form of identification (photo preferred) when you come for testing. A computer will be reserved for you when you make your appointment for placement testing. If you need to change your appointment, please do so as early as possible.
Remember you cannot "fail" the placement tests. Placement testing will benefit you by ensuring that you take courses that are appropriate for your current skill levels.
How do I register to take the placement test?
UMA placement testing is provided (free of charge) at the Augusta campus, Bangor campus, all University of Maine Centers and at selected ITV sites. You can make an appointment to take the test at the location nearest you by calling one of the phone numbers listed below. You will need to know your social security number when you call to make your appointment for testing.
Augusta
(207) 621-3149 or
1-877-862-1234
Bangor
(207) 262-7802
Bath/Brunswick
(207) 442-7736 or 1-800-696-2329
Calais
(207) 454-8230 or 1-800-429-1323
Dover-Foxcroft
(207) 564-2942 or 1-800-590-2942
East Millinocket
(207) 746-5741 or 1-800-498-8200
Ellsworth
(207) 667-3897 or 1-800-696-2540
Fort Kent
(207) 834-7500 or 1-888-879-8635
Houlton
(207) 521-3100 or 1-800-584-0874
Livermore Falls
(207) 897-6384
Newport
(207) 368-4354
Rockland
1-800-286-1594
Rumford/Mexico
(207) 364-7882 or 1-800-696-1103
Saco
(207) 282-4111 or 1-800-696-3391
Sanford
(207) 324-6012 or 1-800-696-3075
So. Paris
(207) 743-8842, Ext. 5211
Students who need special testing accommodations due to a disability should complete a Request for Accommodation Form (available at all UMA testing locations).
When will I receive my test results?
At some locations you will receive a report of your test results immediately after you finish taking the tests. At other locations, you will receive your report by mail within a few days. Be sure to ask for a copy of "Understanding Your UMA Placement Test Report: Information for Students and Advisors."
What do my test results mean?
How your test results determine your placement is explained on "Understanding Your UMA Placement Test Report".
Can I retake the placement tests?
Yes. Some students may wish to study and retake the placement tests. After a 30-day preparation period, one retake per semester is allowed. The on-site CPTs coordinator can waive the preparation period if there is a need to retake the tests before the 30 days have elapsed.
When are placement tests scheduled?
Placement tests are available most days at 9 am, 12 pm and 2 pm. Please call 1-866-UMA-1234, x3149, or (207) 621-3149 to set up a time.