Placement Assessments
Success at Temple University does not follow one particular pathway, as our students are varied and diverse in their backgrounds. For incoming students, it is important that they start on the right track, beginning with determining the appropriate courses for their first semester. Some students may be placed into courses using their student data, including but not limited to high school GPA, SAT, ACT or AP scores while others will need to take placement assessments. Placement Assessments are offered in English, math, and foreign languages.
In addition, the New Student Questionnaire (NSQ) must be completed by all incoming students, even if they do not have to take any other placement assessments. The data collected by the survey are used to provide basic background information describing Temple students. Temple also uses the results of this questionnaire to develop programs and procedures to serve the needs and interests of its students.
Temple's Placement Assessments serve to evaluate different levels of academic preparation. While you should take these assessments seriously, the goal is not simply to achieve high scores, but to demonstrate readiness for particular coursework. This is why it is important that you take an assessment independently, and are placed into courses that demonstrate your ability. An appropriate program of study includes courses that are not above or below your level of preparation, but offers an appropriate challenge and chance at success.
Please note that students with disabilities requiring accommodations for placement assessments must first contact Disability Resources and Services before they start the placement process. Various accommodations, including during the remotely proctored assessment, may be available. Please contact Disability Resources and Services for additional information.
Assessments are taken after students have been admitted to the University and have paid the tuition deposit. Students will receive an email explaining next steps, including placement assessments. Once the deposit is paid, it takes 2-3 business days for the email to be delivered. There will also be information displayed on the student's TUportal under "Next Steps."
Some incoming students may be placed using their student data, including but not limited to: high school grade point average, SAT/ACT scores or AP scores provided to Temple University while others will be required to take an assessment.