The College Readiness Tool (CRT) is an adaptive assessment. This means that the questions are chosen for you on the basis of your answers to previous questions. This technique selects just the right questions for your ability level. Because the test works this way, you must answer every question when it is first given. You can change your answer to a particular question before moving on to the next question, but you cannot leave a question out or come back to it later to change your answer.
Testing Information
The CRT is a multiple-choice test. If you do not know the answer to a question, try to eliminate one or more of the choices. Then pick from the remaining choices. You cannot pass or fail the CRT, but it is very important that you do your very best on these tests so that we have an accurate measure of your ability.
Getting Prepared
Please note, there are no study guides or practice tests for any programs with listed "local tests." See "What is a local test?" in the FAQs for more information.
For other programs, prepare for the CRT by downloading the free study app.
This app features practice tests in:
-
Reading
-
WritePlacer (you will respond to a question in writing using 300+ words)
-
Arithmetic
-
Quantitative reasoning, algebra, statistics
-
Advanced algebra
You can access the site from your computer, tablet or smartphone and familiarize yourself with the basic content areas of Accuplacer tests. However, you may only use a laptop or desktop to do the CRT (no Chromebooks, phones, tablets, etc.).
Resources
Automated proctoring quick guide
Automated proctoring comprehensive guide
Automated proctoring technical success guide
FAQs
Is this a test?
The CRT is an assessment. It is not a test. Assessments help to find out what you know and what you do not know. If writing this assessment uncovers some of your strengths or weaknesses, then it is doing exactly what it needs to do.
It is an adaptive assessment and will "adapt" the level of the questions as you are answering them.
CRT results are only valid for a 12-month period.
Is there a study guide or sample tests?
There are no study guides or practice tests for any programs with listed "local tests."
For other programs, access a study guide and sample tests here.
Which subject areas will be covered?
The Reading section assesses your ability to derive meaning from a range of texts and to determine the meaning of words and phrases in short and extended contexts. Passages on the test cover a range of content areas, writing modes and complexities.
Writeplacer gives you an opportunity to show how effectively you can develop and express your ideas in writing. You will first read a short passage and an assignment question that are focused on an important issue. You will then write an essay (300-600 words) in which you develop your point of view on the issue. You should support your position with appropriate reasoning and examples. The position you take will not influence your score.
The Arithmetic section assesses whole numbers and fractions, decimals and percents, and applications and problem-solving.
Quantitative Reasoning, Algebra, and Statistics assesses rational numbers, ratio and proportional relationships, exponents, algebraic expressions, linear equations, linear applications and graphs, probability sets, descriptive statistics and geometry concepts.
Advanced Algebra and Functions assesses linear equations, linear applications and graphs, factoring, quadratics, functions, radical and rational equations, polynomial equations, exponential and logarithmic equations and trigonometry.
What if my scores are lower than my high school/college transcript marks?
The results are meant to advise you and supplement the Admissions team in making decisions and recommendations. The CRT is not a substitute for prerequisites—you will only be accepted into a program if you have all the requirements. A low CRT score will not necessarily prevent you from entering a program; we may give you some suggestions to help you be better prepared for your studies.
CRT results are only valid for a 12-month period.
We cannot accept results from other institutions.
How much time will I have to complete this assessment?
The CRT is not timed. However, your sitting is generally booked for three hours. You must write the CRT in one sitting with Examity.
The assessment can take anywhere from one hour to the full three hours, and you may have more time if required.
When will I get my results and how can I interpret the results?
The proctor will not be able to interpret your results. Your results do not appear as grades or percentages. You may discuss your scores/results with your department chair and enrolment officer.
Immediately after you have completed the CRT, you will receive a scoring sheet. This will indicate whether you:
-
Meet program requirements
-
Suggestions for success
We might offer you suggestions to connect with the Learning Skills Centre, tutors, Writing Centre, Counselling team, Indigenous Services, Financial Aid, housing supports, etc. -
Suggest upgrading
This result should be discussed with your department chair and the Admissions team.
When you receive your scoring sheet, we suggest you:
-
Send a copy to your enrolment officer.
-
Discuss the results with your enrolment officer and/or department chair if you have any concerns.
If you are taking the CRT with Examity, your proctor cannot print a copy of your results. However, you can request to take a screenshot or picture with your phone or to print it yourself or have it emailed to you. We suggest you follow the same advice as listed above for submitting your CRT results and discussing with enrolment officer and/or department chair.
CRT results are only valid for a 12-month period.
Can I use a calculator?
No, you cannot use a calculator. However, in some math sections, the program will provide you with an on-screen calculator (it will be an icon in the upper right corner). You can use this calculator on those questions. Sometimes the program will give you a scientific calculator and at times it will not. This is not a mistake, as it is designed to have the candidate use some math skills that are not available on a given calculator.
Note: You may use a piece of scratch paper and pen/pencil during the assessment. You must shred the paper when you are done. Your invigilator will require this step.
What is a "local" test?
A local test means the department of the program you are applying to has generated its own test and not used the Accuplacer-generated test.
If you are practicing using the Accuplacer app for tests, you will not find anything comparable, which will make it harder to study for.