DMACC uses assessment scores of new students to provide information about students’ academic skills in reading, writing, and mathematics. Assessment information is used in course selection, course planning, and math placement. Students wishing to take a math class are required to take ALEKS math as a math placement requirement.
Approved November 2011
Updated December 2022
Updated October 2023
Updated September 2024
| ACT | ACCUPLACER Classic Score | ACCUPLACER Scores | Course Recommendations |
|---|---|---|---|
| 01-09 | 20-29 | 213-219 | Student should see Academic Achievement Center for further evaluation |
| 10-13 | 30-44 | 220-229 | RDG 038: College Prep Reading I |
| 14-18 | 45-72 | 203-247 | RDG 039: College Prep Reading II or RDG 049: College Reading II |
| 19-36 | 73-120 | 248-279 | Ready for college level reading. |
| ACT | ACCUPLACER Classic Score | ACCUPLACER Scores | Course Recommendations |
|---|---|---|---|
| 01-13 | Sentence 20-65 | Writing 213-243 | ENG 060: College Prep Writing I |
| 14-18 | Sentence 66-81 | Writing 244-253 | ENG 061: College Prep Writing II |
| 14-19 | Sentence 68-120 | Writing 245-279 | COM 703: Communication Skills |
| 16-18 | Reading 59-72 |
In order to enroll in:
Minimum ALEKS Score
MAT 045: Fundamentals of Math
MAT 772: Applied Math
MAT 064: College Prep Math
MAT 099: Combined Algebra
BUS 112: Business Math
MAT 110: Math for Liberal Arts
Min 20% ALEKS and Co-enroll in MAT 810 or 093
MAT 141: Finite Math
Min 20% ALEKS and Co-enroll in MAT 841 or 093
MAT 156: Statistics
Min 20% ALEKS and Co-enroll in MAT 856
MAT 773: Applied Math II
MAT 121: College Algebra
Min 35% ALEKS and Co-enroll in MAT 821
MAT 130: Trigonometry
MAT 114: Elementary Educators Math I
MAT 162: Princ. Of Business Statistics
MAT 129: Precalculus
MAT 164: Calculus for Busn/Social Sci
MAT 211: Calculus
| ACT Math | or ALEKS | or SAT Math | or MAT 063 | or MAT 064 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| *19 | *30% | *510 | *C- | *C- |
| ACT Math | or ALEKS | or SAT Math | or MAT 073 | and CHM 122 or HS CHM |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| *22 | *46% | *530 | *C- | *C |
| ESL ACCUPLACER Classic Scores | Course Recommendations |
|---|---|
| 20-49 | Non-credit ELL instruction |
| 50-80 | High Intermediate |
The assessment consists of 4 sections: Sentence Meaning, Language Use, Listening, and Reading. If both of the statements below are true , then you do not need to take the ACCUPLACER ESL, but you may need to take the standard ACCUPLACER depending on your program of study.
Prior to beginning the assessment each tester will have to answer some background questions which includes their address. We recommend writing this information down and taking it to the testing center with you.
How is the ACCUPLACER ESL scored?
| ACCUPLACER ESL Score | Recommended DMACC Class |
|---|---|
| Less than 50 | Noncredit ELL |
| 50-81 | Credit ELL 098 & 099 |
| 82-110 | Credit ELL 108 & 109 |
Where can I find information about DMACC ELL Classes?
Visit the English Language Learners website to learn more about DMACC ELL classes.
Can I retake the assessment?
The assessment can be taken every 2 weeks. We recommend practicing your language skills to improve your score.
Where can I practice for the assessment?
ESL Sample Questions .
Mathematics is a critical discipline that serves as a foundation for many majors and programs. In order to be successful in math, it is important to determine which course you are ready to begin.
Subscription Course Code: 9FRHW-DYCTG ALEKS consists of three parts:
Students should take the assessment as soon as possible to determine which math courses they are prepared to begin. ALEKS may be taken wherever internet access is available.
Note: New students are again encouraged to complete ALEKS prior to attending DMACC Orientation.
| Semester Attending | Dates |
|---|---|
| Fall Semester | March 1 - August 1 |
| Spring Semester | July 1 - December 1 |
| Summer Semester | December 1 - May 1 |
Check out the Math Placement FAQ before you start your exam to make sure you understand how ALEKS works and get the ALEKS code. Your ALEKS score indicates which course you are ready to begin.
To begin ALEKS:
Why must I take the ALEKS PPL Assessment?
The Placement Assessment is used to determine the mathematics course in which you will have the greatest success. Upon completion of the Placement Assessment, your scores are sent to your academic advisor. Your advisor will review your scores and help make appropriate recommendations for course registration.
Who is required to take ALEKS?
I took ALEKS at another institution, can I use this score at DMACC?
Transfer and guest students who have taken ALEKS PPL at another institution such as the University of Iowa, Iowa State University or University of Northern Iowa within 18 months, may submit their ALEKS scores to the Registrar's Office at DMACC. Students will be placed into courses based on DMACC's Placement scores.
When do I take the ALEKS PPL Assessment?
Preparation Schedule
Fall Semester: March 1 - August 1
Spring Semester: July 1 - December 1
Summer Semester: December 1 - May 1
Is there a fee for using ALEKS PPL and what is the ALEKS code?
DMACC students will have one year of account access from when they take the first Placement Assessment. Once a student begins their Prep and Learning Module, they will have six months of access.
If your account expires, you can re-subscribe for $15.
Course code: 9FRHW-DYCTG
Do I need to install any software of plug-ins prior to taking the ALEKS Placement Assessment?
No. There are no required plug-ins or applets required with your use of ALEKS PPL. As long as you have access to the internet and are using an updated browser, you should not experience any difficulties taking your placement assessment. For a list of preferred browsers, please review the ALEKS system requirements on the ALEKS support site.
All that you need is a pencil and paper to work out your answers and your DMACC ID number and six digit PIN. If you need help with your DMACC ID number of six digit PIN, contact DMACC Tech Support for assistance.
What topics are covered during the ALEKS PPL Assessment?
ALEKS is an online, adaptive system that covers a broad spectrum of mathematics topics. The length of the Placement Assessment will vary, but can be up to 30 questions. You will see some, but not all, of the math you learned in high school. It is a Placement Assessment, not a preview of math courses at DMACC. It is designed to identify if you are prepared for a particular course. After you take the first placement assessment, you will have the opportunity to review and master additional topics to reassess and improve your placement.
What is the difference between ACCUPLACER and ALEKS?
ACCUPLACER reading and writing may be part of the admission assessment for new full-time students. ALEKS math placement is designed to help determine which DMACC math course you are ready to begin.
Can I practice using the ALEKS input tools before I begin the placement assessment?
ALEKS will begin with a brief tutorial to make sure you are comfortable with the math palette tools before your Placement Assessment begins. The tutorial shows you how to enter different types of answers, how to use the ALEKS calculator, and how to graph. If you aren't sure how to input an answer, or need help while you are taking the ALEKS Placement Assessment, select the Help button below the answer palette tools. Going to the tutorial during your Placement Assessment will NOT impact your Placement Assessment results.
What if I am a person with a disability and need an accommodation for the ALEKS assessment?
Any person with a disability who would like to request an accommodation for the ALEKS Placement Assessment should visit the DMACC Disability Services website or call the Disability Services Office at 515-964-6234.
How do I access the ALEKS Assessment?
What is the format of the questions on ALEKS?
ALEKS is not a multiple-choice Placement Assessment. It is open-response and requires you to work out solutions with paper and pencil, then enter them into ALEKS. Be sure you have scratch paper and pencil with you. Before the Assessment begins, complete the tutorial which shows you how to enter different types of answers, how to use the ALEKS calculator, and how to graph. If you need help while you are taking ALEKS, click on the "help" button at the top of the screen.
How long will an ALEKS placement assessment take to complete?
Placement assessments require approximately 60-90 minutes to complete, but the amount of time will vary by student.
What can I expect when I complete the ALEKS placement assessment?
Once you register with ALEKS PPL, the system will guide you through your next steps. First, you will complete a Survey. Its purpose is for DMACC to collect information about you as a student. It does not impact your Placement Assessment.
Next you will take a brief tutorial to show you how to use the tools you will encounter while using ALEKS.
During the Placement Assessment, click the “?" in the tools palette if you need assistance on using the tools. It will not affect your results.
Are the placement assessments timed?
No, you are free to complete the Placement Assessment at your own pace. The system will allow you to access your Placement Assessment for one week. If you need to exit the Placement Assessment for any reason, you will be able to log back in and pick up where you left off. Assessments that are started but not completed within one week will be deleted and will not count as an assessment attempt.
How many questions are on ALEKS?
There will be a maximum of 30 questions. The exact number of questions will vary due to the adaptive format. It is likely you will be asked questions on material you have not yet learned. On such questions it is appropriate to answer, “I don't know." On any question that you have familiarity with, however, it is important to do your best. “I don't know" is interpreted by ALEKS to mean you do not know to solve the topic, and this will be reflected in your Placement Assessment results. There is no penalty for incorrectly answering a question on the placement assessment, it only helps ALEKS understand what you know and don't know.
Can I review a question after I've answered it?
Because ALEKS is adaptive, once you submit an answer, you cannot change it. Be sure to carefully check your answer before submitting your response.
May I use a calculator while using ALEKS?
ALEKS provides an on-screen calculator if you need one to complete a particular problem. Otherwise, you may not use a calculator.
May I use any other resources during a placement?
You may only use a pen or pencil, paper and the resources provided within ALEKS. You should not receive assistance from friends, family, other websites, textbooks, or any other resource not provided by ALEKS. Using outside resources may lead to improper course placement and ultimately course failure. It is also a violation of DMACC's Student Conduct Policy.
What is my Placement Result?
Your placement result (overall score) is a number between 0 and 100. It represents the percentage of topics ALEKS has identified you have mastered.
Your ALEKS score indicates which course you are ready to begin. If you have questions about which course is required for your program of study, consult with an Academic Advisor. See the Placement Score Table and check the math requirements for your program.
Where can I see my score?
You will receive your score immediately upon completion of your Placement Assessment. Your scores are automatically added into the DMACC student record system and are accessible by your advisor.
How long is my ALEKS Placement Assessment score valid?
The ALEKS assessment score is valid at DMACC for 18 months from the last completion date.
What if I do not place into the course I wanted?
This is the perfect opportunity to take advantage of the Prep and Learning modules offered within ALEKS PPL. An individualized study plan will be created based on your performance on the initial placement assessment. ALEKS will identify what you know and what you are ready to learn next so you can brush-up on lost knowledge. The Prep and Learning module is available for twelve months from the date you begin.
Students can retake the ALEKS Placement Assessment up to four additional times to improve score and/or review for math class. (The highest score will be used to for math placement) Students are required to complete a specific amount of time on the Prep and Learning Modules prior to each assessment to increase success.
What course did I place into?
The math course(s) for which you are eligible to enroll will depend upon your ALEKS score. See the Placement Score Table and check the math requirements for your program.
What if I placed into the class I wanted?
Congratulations! Continue to use your Prep and Learning Module to improve your chances for success. The placement result required is the minimum for your course. Take advantage of the individualized review and learning features in ALEKS to get a better grade in your class.
How do I know if math is required for my program?
Review program descriptions and course requirements.
Do I have to take the course into which my ALEKS score places me?
You can register for a course at or below your ALEKS score. See your Program Information Brief for math requirements or an academic advisor.
Can I retake my ALEKS PPL Assessment?
Yes, you may take up to four Placement Assessments. However, to make each attempt worthwhile, it is important that you spend time working in your ALEKS Prep and Learning Module between Placement Assessments so you can improve your skills.
Students are also required to complete a specific amount of time on the Prep and Learning Modules prior to each assessment to increase success.
Can I retake ALEKS immediately?
On the menu to the left, you will be able to access your learning path, or your next placement assessment.
There is generally no benefit to retaking the assessment immediately after completing a prior attempt. Unlike the ACT or SAT, you cannot improve your results by simply re-taking the assessment without spending time in the Prep and Learning Module to refresh material that you may have forgotten or to learn new material.
What is the ALEKS Prep and Learning Module and how can it help me?
After completing your initial ALEKS Placement Assessment, you will have a 6 month access to Prep and Learning Module. Access to the prep course will not begin until you select start on top of the screen. DO NOT select into the Prep and Learning Module until you are ready to start working.
If your account expires, you can re-subscribe for $15.
Course code: 9FRHW-DYCTG
How long do I have access to my Prep and Learning Modules?
You will have 6 months of access from the time that you start using your Prep and Learning Module. Access to the prep course will not begin until you select start on top of the screen. DO NOT select into the Prep and Learning Module until you are ready to start working.
If your account expires, you can re-subscribe for $15.
Course code: 9FRHW-DYCTG
Is there an additional fee for my Prep and Learning Module?
Access to a Prep and Learning Module is included along with the additional placement assessments. Once a student begins their Prep and Learning Module, they will have twelve months of access.
If your account expires, you can re-subscribe for $15.
Course code: 9FRHW-DYCTG
Must I work in my ALEKS Prep and Learning Module between Placement Assessments?
You can retake the Placement Assessment up to four additional times to improve your score. (The highest score will be used for math placement) Students are required to work in the Prep and Learning Module to make each attempt worthwhile so you can improve your skills.
What are ALEKS Knowledge Checks?
While working in a Prep and Learning Module, you will periodically complete a Knowledge Check to make sure you have mastered the topics you gained in the Learning Module. If you do not show mastery during the Knowledge Check, the topics will be added back into your Learning Pie so you can review them again.
Does progress in an ALEKS Prep and Learning Module count toward placement?
No. You must complete a new Placement Assessment to change your placement result. Select the placement tab in the upper right side of the ALEKS page to start a new Placement Assessment.
What do I do if my web browser gets stuck or my computer crashes while I am taking the Placement Assessment?
Simply close the browser, or log out and log back in. ALEKS will resume the Placement Assessment exactly where you left off, with no loss of your previous answers for up to one week from the date you begin.
Where can I get technical support for ALEKS?
The Reading test consists of 20 questions related to humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. The test presents reading passages in narrative, expository, or argumentative forms, and you must identify what is requested, using the following skills: close reading and inference, theme identification, main ideas and support details differentiation, summary concepts, idea relationships, rhetorical devices, synthesis, and vocabulary.
Reading Study Resources
Reading Reviews and Courses
Main Ideas and Supporting Details
Author's Purpose and Rhetorical Strategies
When Ready, Take the Test!
Relax! ACCUPLACER is a well-designed test to help you assess your readiness for college. The following tips will help you do your best.
Welcome to DMACC’s Choosing Composition Success site, created by the DMACC Writing Placement Task Force and English Department. It describes how students place into their writing classes and offers options for students scoring at certain levels.
Choosing success in college starts with taking writing courses that fit your current writing skills. Most colleges and universities in the United States have a first-year writing course required for a degree. At DMACC, that class is Composition I (ENG 105). However, not everyone is ready to take ENG 105, so the first step is to see into which class you place.
Part-time and full-time students who need to take a composition class need to submit ACT, COMPASS Reading and Writing Skills, ACCUPLACER Classic Reading and Sentence, or ACCUPLACER Reading and Writing scores to the Admissions Office as part of the admissions requirements. If you have taken these exams, bring the results to your advisor to help determine your writing placement. If you have not taken any of these tests, then you should schedule ACCUPLACER Reading and Writing exams with the Testing Center and talk about the results with an advisor to find the best writing path for you. Guest students and current DMACC students, including Post-Secondary Enrollment Options (PSEO) and Career Advantage students, who have already passed a prerequisite writing course prior to enrolling in Fall 2018 will be exempt. Academic transcripts will be required to verify transfer credit/grade awarded.
Examples
Look at the ACT range of 16-18. What do you see? You see that students who score in the middle through upper ranges of the ACT or who score in certain ranges on the Reading and Writing placement exams for COMPASS, ACCUPLACER Classic and ACCUPLACER have different options.
Because reading and writing skills are so important to composition, we look at both scores to qualify students for an option of courses. Students who score 16-18 on the ACT, have a COMPASS Reading score range of 48-80 and Writing score of 54-69, or an ACCUPLACER Classic Reading score of 59-72 and Sentence score of 74-81 have two course options: 1) take ENG 061 then ENG 105 the next semester, or 2) partner ENG 145 with ENG 105.
College Preparatory Writing II (ENG 061) is a tried-and-true developmental class at DMACC, helping students meet their writing goals for more than a decade. Students receive individualized attention while practicing specific reading and writing skills in the classroom. Students who earn a passing grade can move on to ENG 105. Pass and success rates for this course are higher than the national average across DMACC’s campuses.
Strategies for Composition (ENG 145) is taken with Composition I (ENG 105) and is a two credit, corequisite/accelerated learning program (ALP) model course. If your placement scores fall within the appropriate ranges, you may advance to ENG 105, but you must also enroll in ENG 145. The ENG 145 class meets immediately after ENG 105 and includes some of the same students you encounter in ENG 105. It is designed to provide a smaller class size (limited to 10-12 students) with individualized support and practice with assignments that reinforce the writing concepts addressed in ENG 105. By taking ENG 145 with ENG 105, you can move forward with writing coursework and gain two general elective credits. If you qualify for this option, you must complete both ENG 145 and ENG 105 successfully with a passing grade to continue to the next writing class, Composition II (ENG 106).
Deciding which path to take depends a lot on if you have the credits, desire, and money needed to take two writing classes at the same time, which is the 145/105 option, or whether you want to focus on one class at a time, which is the ENG 061 option. If you choose the 145/105 option and do not pass, then you can retake both classes or take 061 alone, waiting to take ENG 105 after you pass 061.
Choosing success means talking with advisors when registering for classes and your instructors when needing help. Using DMACC’s support services like Academic Achievement Centers and the Library Professionals will also help you succeed in college.
For questions regarding placement, contact an advisor.
How do I schedule the ACCUPLACER test?
Testing is available at multiple DMACC locations. If you require an accommodation for testing, call the Disabilities Services Coordinator at 515-964-6850.
What is ACCUPLACER?
ACCUPLACER is a computer-based test with a series of basic skill assessments in reading and writing. The test indicates areas where you might need strengthening and suggests courses that might be a starting point for your college career. Most questions require a multiple choice answer.
How much time will the test take?
Generally, it takes an hour to complete the ACCUPLACER Reading and Writing assessments and two hours to complete the ACCUPLACER Classic ELL assessments.
What subjects are tested?
There are two areas of focus for ACCUPLACER:
Also available is ELL ACCUPLACER Classic. Written in standard English, ELL ACCUPLACER Classic will assess appropriate levels of ELL classes or regular course work.
I Have No Computer Experience. Can I still take the ACCUPLACER Test?
ACCUPLACER is user friendly and was designed for those with little or no computer experience. DMACC staff are on hand to walk you through the directions and assist you with getting started.
The amount of time you spend on each area is recorded, but there is no time limit, so you can relax and do your best!
The College Level Examination Program (CLEP) is a rigorous College Board program that allows students of a wide range of ages to demonstrate their mastery of college-level material in introductory subjects and earn college credit. CLEP offers examinations that represent courses typical of the first two years of college study.
CLEP may be for you if…
How will CLEP credit be awarded for DMACC students?
Will credit earned by CLEP while attending DMACC transfer to other institutions:
CLEP credit earned while attending DMACC usually transfers to other colleges or universities; however, you must meet the minimum score requirements of the school to which you are transferring. DMACC does not assume responsibility for the transferability of CLEP credits.
When and where are examinations given?
Exams are given by appointment throughout the year at the Urban, Boone and Ankeny Campuses. Students must register with College Board and pay for an exam before contacting a DMACC campus to take a CLEP exam. The examinations take 90 minutes. Not all CLEP exams are available. Essay Sections not offered for CLEP exams.
How much does the CLEP exam cost?
College Board accesses an $95 exam fee, payable to CLEP when you create a login and register for an exam. A $33 proctor fee will be assessed at the DMACC testing locations in Ankeny, Urban Campus, or Boone Academic Achievement Center when you arrive to take your scheduled exam.
How can I make an appointment for the CLEP exam?
You may make an appointment for CLEP on the Boone Campus by calling 515-433-5095, Ankeny Campus by calling 515-964-6595, or Urban Campus by calling 515-697-7807.
What can I do to study for these tests?
Books are available through local libraries and book-stores to help prepare for the CLEP examinations. These are comprehensive and contain sample test questions and other helpful information. Copies are available in the DMACC library. There is also material located at the CLEP website.
When are you allowed to retest?
Students must wait 3 months before retesting.
For official CLEP transcripts contact College Board.
Subject Exams
Updated August 2022
Other CLEP exams offered, but not accepted for credit by DMACC:
