Accuplacer Math Test Scores: A Detailed Guide

One of the stages of applying to a college or university course in the US is the Accuplacer test. There are five sections that are administered to students depending on their chosen course.

If you have applied for a math course, you will take the Accuplacer Math test. This test is designed to assess your knowledge in the following areas:

• Arithmetic
• Quantitative Reasoning, Algebra and Statistics
• Advanced Algebra and Functions

Your score is used to determine which math course you are best suited to. If you achieve a high score, you can move onto upper-level courses. It also means you do not have to take non-credit courses that have no bearing on your college degree.

This TestHQ Accuplacer Math study guide has been developed to help you understand how the Accuplacer Math test is scored.

You will also learn what qualifies as a passing score. Being equipped with this knowledge will help you prepare to achieve a high score on the Accuplacer Math Test.

How Accuplacer Math Scores Are Calculated

The Accuplacer Math test has a score range of 200 to 300. 

Within this 100-point scale, there are five score bands.

These are:

• 200 to 236
  
• 237 to 249
• 250 to 262
• 263 to 275
• 276 to 300

Each of these score bands describes the level of skill and knowledge that a candidate is likely to possess. The Accuplacer Next-Generation math scores are used to place groups of students in courses that match their abilities.

The Accuplacer Math test is computer-adaptive, meaning that its difficulty adjusts depending on how you are performing. If you score correctly on a question, the next one will be slightly harder. If you answer incorrectly, the test will present easier questions.

Generally speaking, achieving high Accuplacer Next-Generation math scores indicates a greater proficiency in math concepts. Candidates who score lower on the test may benefit from developmental courses to improve their math abilities.

Accuplacer Math Placement Test Scores Ranges 

The score ranges for the Accuplacer Math Placement test typically describe the ability of candidates.

Colleges use Accuplacer Math Placement test scores to determine which math courses you may need to complete to achieve a math degree. If you score on the lower end of the scale, you are likely to be placed in remedial classes.

These do not add any credits to your degree, but you do need to pay for them. To avoid needing to spend time and money on extra classes, it is crucial to pass the Accuplacer Math Placement test.

Below is a breakdown of the score ranges for each math section and what they generally mean:

Arithmetic

Accuplacer Math scores from 200 to 236 often indicate the need for developmental math. 

You may be comfortable with basic operations such as adding, subtracting, multiplying, and dividing whole numbers. You may also be able to convert fractions into decimals.

Quantitative Reasoning, Algebra, and Statistics (QAS)

A score between 237 and 249 indicates intermediate skills, such as the ability to solve equations and understand concepts such as exponents and probability.

Scoring in this range may place students in introductory math courses to further develop skills and knowledge.

Advanced Algebra and Functions (AAF)

Scores above 250 often indicate readiness for college-level or advanced math courses.

Achieving a score between 250 and 300 often indicates exceptional proficiency in categories such as linear equations, quadratics, and trigonometry.

What Is a Passing Accuplacer Math Score?

There is no universal “passing” score for the Accuplacer Math Placement test as each college sets its own benchmark for course placement.

Therefore, it is important to aim to achieve the highest score you can.

Generally speaking, there is a minimum score which allows students to bypass developmental courses and place into college-level math.

For arithmetic, the Math Accuplacer passing score to avoid remedial courses may range from 230 to 249.

In the areas of QAS and AAF, you will generally need to score at least 250 to be considered college ready.

STEM courses are typically very competitive, and so some colleges may have specific cutoff scores for these programs. To be successful in joining a STEM course, you are likely to need a higher proficiency in math.

What Is a Good Accuplacer Math Score?

It is important to note that there is no one definitive “good” score, as this depends on the college’s requirements and your academic plans.

A good score is one that you have worked hard to achieve and can be proud of. Each student will have different goals and ambitions and so a certain route to a college degree may suit one student and not another.

A score in the upper range, 250 or above, is typically considered a good result for placing into college-level math.

Next-Generation Accuplacer Math Scores

The Next-Generation Accuplacer Math test replaced the classic version in 2019.

There are some differences between the two versions. The Next-Generation Accuplacer Math test is more closely aligned with the SAT college admissions test. It also has a greater focus on assessing students’ fluency and understanding of math concepts.

You can interpret your Next-Generation Math scores by measuring which score bracket you are in. If you consult your college to find out the Math Accuplacer passing score, you can understand which course you will be placed on.

Math Accuplacer Percentile Rankings

Percentile rankings inform you how you scored compared to other candidates.

For example, if you score a total of 225 out of a possible 300, you would be in the 75th percentile. This would indicate that you performed better than 75% of other test takers.

How to Improve Your Accuplacer Math Score

If you are to score highly on the Accuplacer Math test, you will need to prepare.

Some of the best ways to improve your performance on the Accuplacer Math test are:

• Take practice tests to familiarize yourself with the format and types of question
• Focus on reviewing specific math concepts where improvement is needed, such as algebra, geometry, or statistics
• Use online study tools and tutorials to strengthen your understanding of key math concepts

There is no time limit for completing the Accuplacer Math test, though most students finish within two hours.

It is a good idea to take timed practice tests so you can gauge your finishing time.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Accuplacer Math test?

The Accuplacer Math test is a placement test taken by college students. It is used to determine which math course each student is best suited to.

What is a passing score on the Accuplacer Math test?

There is no standard passing score as it is decided by the college.

How can I improve my Accuplacer Math score?

You can improve your score by taking practice tests – such as those found on TestHQ – and studying math concepts.

Can I retake the Accuplacer Math test if I’m not happy with my score?

Whether you can retake the test is decided by your college. Institutions will usually give students two chances to pass the Accuplacer test, but you will need to check this with them.

How long are Accuplacer Math test scores valid?

Your Accuplacer Math test scores will be valid for two years.

What happens if I score below the required Accuplacer Math score for college-level courses?

If you fail any part of the Accuplacer Math test, you will be required to take at least one no-credit course before you can enroll in a math credit course.

Final Thoughts

Understanding the Accuplacer Math test is key for achieving a high score.

It is important that you prepare for the test using practice tests – such as those found on TestHQ – and study materials. If you can pass the test, you can avoid needing to attend remedial programs and proceed with your college credit courses.