What is Accuplacer?
The ACCUPLACER test assesses Grade 10 and Grade 12 English equivalency for admission to VIU programs. ACCUPLACER is a computer-based test with three sections:
- reading comprehension
- sentence structure (Writing Skills)
- essay writing (WritePlacer)
What score do I need to get?
VIU's HCAP program requires Grade 10 English equivalency. Please see the table below for the required scores for Grade 10 and Grade 12 English equivalency.
VIU Grade 10 and Grade 12 English Equivalency Scores
| Accuplacer Section | Grade 10 English (HCAP only) | Grade 12 English (C-Equivalent) |
|---|---|---|
| Reading Comprehension (multiple choice) | 230+ | 260+ |
| Writing Skills (multiple choice) | 230+ | 250+ |
| WritePlacer (essay) | 4+ | 5+ |
Can I rewrite Accuplacer to get a higher score in the future?
If you plan to continue your studies at VIU after you complete the HCAP program, you may need to provide Accuplacer results for Grade 12 C-level or higher, depending on the requirements of the program.
You can re-take the Accuplacer test within two years of your first attempt if you did not get the scores you need.
When you request a rewrite, please let us know if you need Grade 10 or for Grade 12 English equivalency for admission to your program.
Accuplacer Study Resources
Does your computer meet the system requirements for a remote Accuplacer Test?
Accuplacer Test Platform
Examity Remote-Proctor Platform
Book Your Accuplacer Test
In-Person Accuplacer
Write the Accuplacer English Equivalency test at our centre at VIU Nanaimo.
Email us at assessments@viu.ca for more information about booking.
Remote Accuplacer
Write the Accuplacer test from the comfort of your own home at a time that suits your schedule.
Accuplacer FAQ
We can support Accuplacer applicants with documented disabilities. The first step is to reach out to us directly at assessments@viu.ca before applying so that we can get you set up with VIU's Accessibility Services team.
The reading comprehension (20 multiple choice questions) and writing skills sections (25 multiple choice questions) are untimed; WritePlacer has a 70-minute limit for a 300-600 word essay.
The average time to complete all three sections is 2.5 hours.
You will receive your results within 2 business days of sitting the ACCUPLACER although it may be possible to receive your results on the same day as you complete your assessment.
Results will also be forwarded to VIU's Admissions and Registration team.
A $65 ACCUPLACER testing fee must be paid when you register for a test. The rewrite fee is $50.
For remote Accuplacer tests, there is an additional $25US fee charged by the third party online proctor service, Examity.
Note: Accuplacer fees are non-refundable.
There are many sites that offer practice material and tips for how to do well on the ACCUPLACER.
Below is a sample of some of these helpful materials.
- Accuplacer Study Materials (follow the link and enter the codes below to access study resources)
- Reading Comprehension: READ03
- Writing Skills: WRIT03
- WritePlacer Essay: ESSAY01
- Accuplacer Sample Reading and Writing Skills Sample Questions (PDF)
- Accuplacer Sample WritePlacer essays and critiques (PDF)
- WritePlacer Essay Tips
An applicant may rewrite one or more of the ACCUPLACER sections after their initial attempt.
It is highly recommended that the applicant spends several weeks reviewing the subject matter before attempting the rewrite.
If the applicant’s scores on the first rewrite still do not meet the required score, a minimum of 20 hours tutoring or up-grading will be required before they can attempt a second rewrite.
If, after 20 hours of tutoring, the applicant is not successful on the second rewrite, they must wait until at least one year has passed since the last testing session. Formal upgrading courses are recommended during this period.