The ACCUPLACER assessment has replaced the COMPASS assessment.
The ACCUPLACER assessment is designed to identify your academic strengths and areas of need. Specifically, you will be assessed in the areas of reading, writing, and math to determine appropriate course placement as you begin your program at Hawkeye.
The ACCUPLACER assessment is:
- Administered on a computer with easy to follow directions.
- Adaptive to your skill level.
- Not timed.
- Free the first time you take it.
When taking the ACCUPLACER:
- You will be provided with scratch paper and pencils.
- You will have access to a calculator in the testing software.
- You may request earplugs to block out noise distractions.
After you complete the ACCUPLACER assessment we will interpret your scores for placement into specific Hawkeye courses. See the course recommendations.
If you have additional questions about how your course placement might affect your academic program at Hawkeye, we encourage you to meet with your Academic Advisor.
Testing Locations, Remote Testing, and Scheduling
Hawkeye offers the ACCUPLACER assessment at the following locations:
Each location manages their own assessment schedule. Please contact the location you are interested in taking the ACCUPLACER assessment at to inquire about scheduling.
Taking the ACCUPLACER Assessment on Main Campus
When classes are in session the ACCUPLACER assessment is given on a walk-in basis in the Make-Up Testing Center. When planning your visit keep in mind that you must complete your assessment BEFORE the center closes. See Make-Up Testing hours.
When classes are not in session, between semesters, and during the summer, days and hours will vary. Please contact Student Services at 319-296-4014 for the availability during these times.
Remote testing for ACCUPLACER
Remote testing for ACCUPLACER will be available in the future. Check back for updates or call 319-296-4014 for more information.
Preparing for the ACCUPLACER
There are several ways you can prepare for the ACCUPLACER assessment:
Retesting Policy
To encourage students to put their best foot forward and to ensure ACCUPLACER results are an accurate representation of a students’ academic skill, the ACCUPLACER assessment can only be taken three times in a one-year period. This one-year period is from the date the first time you take the ACCUPLACER, not calendar year. You must wait a minimum of 24 hours between attempts.
There is no cost to take the ACCUPLACER the first time if you are testing for admission to Hawkeye. There is a retest fee of $5 per section. For example, if you need to retake all three sections—reading, writing, and math—the fee is $15.
Requesting your ACCUPLACER Scores be Sent to Another Institution
To have your ACCUPLACER score sent to another institution complete the online Request for Release of Placement Test Scores form and submit a $25* payment to the Assessment and Evaluation office. Once we have both the request and the payment we will send your scores within two business days.
* The $15 payment is in addition to any fees you may pay for retesting.
Accommodations
Students with documented disabilities can work with the Special Needs Coordinator to arrange further accommodations.
To apply for ACCUPLACER accommodations you must turn all of the following into the Special Needs Coordinator:
Documentation must be pre-approved and testing arrangements made in advance. All accommodations testing must take place on Main Campus.
The student and the Testing Manager will be notified by email within 10 business days of any approved accommodations. Once notified, arrangements for an accommodated ACCUPLACER assessment can be completed by contacting the Evaluation and Testing office.