Skip Navigation

Assessment Center Home

2200 Building, Room 2209   (530)242-7751

What is an English Assessment?

An assessment test is given to identify the student's skill levels in English (reading & writing). The assessment scores can help the counselor in recommending the most appropriate courses to meet the student's educational goals. It is important to note that COMPASS (English) is not a pass/fail evaluation; it is an assessment tool used to aid students, teachers, and counselors in determining current skills in the areas of reading and writing.

What is the Math Self Placement?

This guide allows you to make the decision of where to start in the math sequence since you know your skills better than anyone. In order for this process to be effective, you must carefully consider all of the items presented. You may place yourself in a math course up through MATH 102, Intermediate Algebra. If you wish to start with a course that will transfer to a 4-year college, you must see a counselor who will help you determine if you have met the prerequisites for the desired course. Click on the link in the left sidebar to begin the Math Self Placement. The Self-Placement may only be done once. If you want to "re-place", you will need to take the Math Assessment Test.

Math and Enlgish assessments may be taken twice a semester with a 2-week break in between. 

What is the Ability to Benefit (ATB) Test? 

 Students who are applying for Financial Aid and do not have a high school diploma or GED will be required to take an ATB test.  Minimum scores of 32 in Writing, 62 in Reading and 34 in Math are required and all three sections must be passed the same day.  They may be taken twice a semester.  There are other options if you don't reach the minimum scores on the computerized tests. See the assessment staff for details. 

What do I need to do in order to take the Assessments?
You must have an application on file at Shasta College. You must also provide photo I.D. (Driver's License, Shasta College I.D. card, Passport, High School I.D. card, Resident Card, Military I.D. etc.)

Are appointments needed?
Appointments are not needed to take the assessments. Please check our Assessment Calendar for office hours.

How long does it take to complete the Assessments?
Allow approximately two hours to complete the assessments, depending upon your reading ability.

When will I know the results of my assessment?
Assessment scores are available immediately. The student will need to meet with a counselor for interpretation of scores and placement in classes.

Anything else I should know?
Yes, PLEASE DO NOT BRING books, food, beverages, electronic devices (such as beepers, cell phones, headsets, radios, etc.) or children, as they are not allowed in the Assessment Center.

Orientation Survey for Spring 2010