Academic English Placement Test

What is the purpose of the Academic English (AE) Placement Test?

The purpose of this exam is to identify those students who would benefit from Academic English (AE) course work.

You may be required to take the AE test if your first or native language is not English AND:

• You have not satisfied the Entry Level Writing Requirement, and you have scored 430 or less on the Verbal Reasoning of the SAT I or have not taken this test

or

• Your performance on the UC Analytical Writing Placement Exam indicates that AE course work would be beneficial.

If you meet either of the above criteria, you will receive a letter from the Office of Academic English requiring you to take this test.

When should I take the Academic English test?

The AE Test must be taken prior to your first quarter of enrollment at UCI. It is strongly recommended that you take this test as early as possible for improved course choices when you enroll. The AE test may not be repeated.

How long is the test?

This 100-minute test has two components:

1. Writing - You will have 50 minutes to respond to an essay question. Your essay will be evaluated on the basis of grammar, vocabulary, content, and organization.

2. Reading - You will have 50 minutes to answer multiple-choice questions on reading comprehension and vocabulary.

3. Don't forget your blue book! - This item is required and can be purchased at the UCI Bookstore.

What happens after the test?

Within three weeks after your exam dates, you can check your results on the Academic Testing Center website. If your scores on the test do not exempt you from Academic English course work, then you must enroll in the appropriate AE reading course (Humanities 22A) and AE writing course (Humanities 20A-B-C). Since these AE courses are designed to improve your abilities in academic reading and writing, they are most beneficial if begun during your first quarter at UCI. You must enroll in required AE courses no later than your second quarter. Upon completion of your AE course work, you will then be placed into the appropriate lower-division writing course. You must complete your AE writing course work before taking the course needed to satisfy the UC Entry Level Writing Requirement.

How long are the test results valid?

The results are valid for your entire academic career at UCI.

Is test registration required?

Test registration is always required. You may register online, by phone or email.

Do I need an I.D. to take a placement test?

Yes. To be admitted to any test administered by the Academic Testing Center, you must present two forms of valid photo I.D. This requirement is strictly enforced.

The following are examples of acceptable forms of I.D.:

UCI or other school photo I.D. card AND a government-issued photo I.D. card. (e.g., a photo-bearing driver's license, a photo-bearing DMV-issued identification card, a photo-bearing military I.D. card, a passport featuring a current photograph, a Permanent Resident Card- commonly know as a Green Card- featuring a current photograph).

Sample test items:

Click here for sample items.

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