Placement FAQ

Why do I have to be assessed?

The Massachusetts Department of Higher Education mandates that all students entering state colleges must complete an assessment to assess students for placement into courses if you are not waived from the assessment. Go to Academic Assessment – NECC (mass.edu) to see our Multiple Measures that may exempt you from the full or partial academic assessment.  Based on your assessment, you are provided the opportunity to choose an informed educational path.

What type of academic placement method is used?

An English Guided Self-Placement (GSP) and a Math Guided Self-Placement (GSP). An Accuplacer English language assessment may also be used, if necessary.

The goal of the English GSP is to offer you the opportunity to choose an informed educational path. You will be asked questions about your past educational and English language experience and your future goals. Your responses will take you to relevant resources or additional questions leading you to your next steps.

The goal of the Math GSP is to provide you with the opportunity to choose the math course that best fits your skill level and academic needs. You will self-evaluate your math background, algebraic abilities, and confidence in math.

How long will the assessment take?

The assessment is un-timed so take your time, read the questions thoroughly, and answer them honestly and to the best of your ability to ensure appropriate course placement.

What does it cost to be assessed?

There is no fee.

What should I bring on the date I take my assessment?

Bring your NECC ID number. If you have not applied to NECC, click here to Get started on the application process. Once you receive your NECC ID number, you can take the academic assessment.  

You must bring photo identification (i.e. license, passport).

NO food or drinks are allowed in the lab.

When do my placement expire?

All developmental placements are valid for one year from the date of assessment.

College-level placements are valid for three years from the date of assessment.

Do I still need to take the assessment if I have taken college courses before?

Students with prior college credits or SAT scores may be eligible for a partial or full waiver of the academic assessment. Waivers are granted based on review of transcripts, CLEP and Advanced Placement Transcripts. Contact Enrollment Services at enrollmentservices@necc.mass.edu or dfelisberto@necc.mass.edu to inquire about the waiver process.

What if English is not my first language?

If you are an English language learner, you will take the English Guided Self-Placement (GSP) and an Accuplacer ESL reading and writing assessment. You will then be contacted to by an ESL Advisor to confirm your educational path. 

What if I have a diagnosed disability and need assessment accommodations?

Students with documented disabilities should contact the Center for Accessibility Resources & Services (CARS) to arrange for special accommodations well in advance of their academic assessment.

Students with documented disabilities:
Call:(978) 556-3654
Individuals who are deaf and hard of hearing:
Call: 978-241-7045 (VP/Voice)

When will my placements be available?

Your placements will available once you complete the academic assessment. Your next step is to complete Orientation and then you will be scheduled to meet with an advisor to go over your placements and register for classes.

How will I get my placements?

An advisor will go over your placements with you when you register for classes. 

When can I register for classes?

Upon completion of your academic assessment, you will be informed when your placements are ready and next steps in the enrollment process. Information is available at www.necc.mass.edu/admissions/new-student-roadmap/.