Placement Test
The Testing Office is responsible for administering the English, mathematics, and reading Placement Tests to eligible students. Those eligible to take the placement test are admitted first time freshman and transfer students with less than 24 hours of college courses. Students MUST take a placement test before their Orientation date. If you have any questions regarding your qualification to take a placement test after reading the information below feel free to contact our office (859) 572-6373.The Placement test format is as follows:
- English - A written essay taken on and scored by a computer.
- Math - Computerized, multiple-choice exam.
- Reading - Computerized comprehension exam similar to the ACT reading passages.
CPE Test Score Standards:
The Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education (CPE) has initiated a plan for all students attending Kentucky universities beginning in Fall of 2009 to meet new standards. If a student does not meet these standards, he or she must take a placement test. The placement test will determine whether or not he or she will need to take a developmental class. The following scores determine eligibility for a Placement test:
| Math | Reading | English | |
| ACT | Less than 19 | Less than 20 | Less than 18 |
| SAT | Less than 460 | Less than 470 | Less than 430 (writing) |
| COMPASS | Less than 36 | Less than 85 | Less than 74 |
If you are admitted to NKU and your scores fall within the above mentioned, you MUST take a Placement test in each of the areas in which you are deficient. You will NOT be able to register for classes until your Placement Test (s) have been taken.
Some majors require a higher Math score for specific courses. Those with lower scores will need to take developmental courses.
Dates/Location
Please check the Placement Test Registration link for upcoming dates.
Tests will be held in University Center, room 101. If you have more than one test to take, please plan on choosing an appointment time in the morning.
You must sign up for a Placement Test before your scheduled Orientation date or registration of classes. Please click on the box below to register:
