Accuplacer: How do I do that?

Posted on August 22, 2011 by Alisha

What is Accuplacer?

The Accuplacer placement exams are simple tests to gauge your knowledge and skills in certain subjects. Accuplacer is basically a way to make sure you don’t take classes you don’t need (or that you’re not ready for yet). There are two Accuplacer tests you can take, Math and English (which consists of two parts, reading comprehension and sentence skills).

Do I need to take it?

After you apply for admissions, you’ll receive an acceptance letter that will tell you if you need to take a placement exam before signing up for classes. You are required to take the Accuplacer if your ACT math scores are below 22 or if your course placement has expired. Your placement has expired if your ACT/ SAT is older than 2 years, your Accuplacer is older than 1 year, or your prerequisite math course is older than one year. If you’re coming back to school after a few years, you are more than likely going to need to take the Accuplacer to be placed into the correct math and English classes. Also, just a heads up, you won’t be permitted to register for classes before you take the required Accuplacer tests. Essentially the sooner you take the Accuplacer, the sooner you can sign up for classes.

Taking the Test

You can take the Accuplacer at several locations including the Ogden Campus, the Davis Campus, and the West Center. Just make sure to check out the testing center hours and locations. No appointment is necessary but you’ll need to be at the testing center at least one hour before they close. The math and English will each take about an hour, depending on your skill level.

What to Bring

Money: The math and English Accuplacer cost $10 each, so bring some form of payment with you. (But if you’re retaking one part of the English, it’s only $5).

A picture ID: Your Wildcard, license, or something akin to that.

Your W number: If you don’t know what it is log into your Weber Portal, click on the student services tab, and it will be on the left side under personal profile. And remember when entering your W number into Accuplacer, be sure to use a capital “W” and use zeros not Os.
A pencil: The main staple of taking any test.

THINGS YOU DON’T NEED: Calculators are not allowed, and scratch paper will be provided so you won’t need that.

About the Test

The Accuplacer is an adaptive test, which means that the questions are chosen for you on the basis of your answers to previous questions. Basically, if you answer the questions correctly you will keep moving on to tougher sections. Because the test works this way, you must answer every question in order. The Accuplacer isn’t timed so you can give each question as much thought as you wish. You can change your answer to a particular question before moving on to the next question, but you cannot skip a question or come back to it later to change your answer. Also you can’t “pass” or “fail” the placement tests, but it is very important that you do your very best on these tests so that you will have an accurate measure of your academic skills.

How can I prepare?

Now for most of us it’s been a while since we’ve thought about the quadratic equation or where in the world the comma is supposed to go, so you may want to prepare and go over sample questions. You can also look at test helps for the SAT or ACT.

When do I take it?

The Accuplacer is offered year round, so as soon as you’ve been accepted to WSU you should take the test. After you take it the testing center will give you a print out your scores. Once you have your scores you should look at the assessment and placement standards which outline what scores are needed to be placed into math and English classes. These standards are helpful to see your placement fits in the grand scheme of things. For example, Lets say you get an 88 on your English reading comprehension Accuplacer, well you only need two more points to go from ENGL 990 to ENGL 1010. If you’re close to the next class my advice would be to study hard so you don’t have to take any developmental classes that don’t count towards your degree. Just because you do poorly once, doesn’t mean you can’t study and improve your test score. WSU does not count any 0900 level developmental course into your GPA average or graduation credits. 0900 level math and English courses are developmental classes that help advance you to the 1000 level courses, which count for your degree.

Test Results

For math, you can be placed into MATH 0950 Pre-algebra, MATH 0990 Algebra, MATH 1010 Intermediate Algebra, Quantitative Literacy (QL) Contemporary Mathematics 1030 or QL College Algebra 1050, or you can completely test out of math (although this is very rare). For English you can be placed into ENGL 900 Fundamentals of College Reading and Writing, ENGL 955 Developmental College Reading and Writing, or ENGL 1010 Introductory College Writing, and there is no possibility of testing out the English (sorry folks).

Step 8—Use support services:
A Step-by-Step Guide for Returning Students

Posted on July 20, 2011 by Adam

Step 8: Use support services

First-Year Experience

If you’re new to the whole college thing, be sure to check out the First-Year Experience Program (FYE). This program includes a three-credit class (EDUC 1105-Introduction to the University) designed to help with your transition to the college experience. Improve your academic skills, explore majors and become familiar with campus resources. The class is offered at both WSU Ogden and WSU Davis.

Services for returning students

WSU offers a wide variety of programs and services for our diverse student population. Whether you’re just looking for a quiet place to study or you need a place to drop off the kids while you’re in class, there are dozens of services throughout campus that can help. Take a look at the list below to see what services may be helpful to you.
Here is a list of important offices sorted by campus location.

WSU Ogden

Bookstore

Shepherd Union Building, Rm. 101
801-626-6352

Testing Center

Student Services Bldg. Rm. 262
801-626-6803

Advising

Student Services Bldg., Rm. 140
Student Success Center
801-626-6752 (option 5)

Financial Aid and Scholarship Office

Student Services Bldg, Rm.120
801-626-7569

Multicultural Student Center

Student Services Bldg, Rm. 150
801-626-7333

Nontraditional Student Center

Shepherd Union Bldg, Rm. 322
801-626-7794

Veteran Services

Student Services Bldg, Rm. 154
801-626-6039

Student Support Services

Student Services Bldg, Rm. 265
801-626-7009

Women’s Center

Shepherd Union Bldg, Rm. 322
801-626-6090

Registration Help—Online

Lampros Hall
Computing Support, Rm. 218
801-626-7777

Registration Help—In person

Student Services Bldg
Registrar’s Solution Center,
Rm. 101
801-626-6100

Parking

Annex 5 (South end of campus)
801-626-6533

Wildcard/ UTA ed pass

Shepherd Union Bldg.
Information Desk
801-626-6367

WSU Davis

Testing Center

Rm. 215
801-395-3495

Advising

Enrollment Services: 801-395-3480

Bookstore

Rm. 201
801-395-3487

Services for Nontraditional Students

Rm. 260

(801) 395-3514

Services for Multicultural Students

Rm. 260

(801) 395-3514

Services for Women Students

Rm. 260

(801) 395-3514

Registration—in person

Rm. 241
801-395-3480

Parking

Bookstore, Rm. 201
801-395-3487

Wildcard/UTA ED pass

Student Services (2nd Floor)
801-395-3460

WSU West Center

Testing Center

801-689-4007

Advising

Enrollment Advisor: 801-626-7362 or 626-8975

Registration—in person

801-626-8975

You made it! Congratulations! You successfully went through steps one, two, three, four, five, six, seven and eight!

Step 7—Get ready for school:
A Step-by-Step Guide for Returning Students

Posted on July 19, 2011 by Adam

Step 7: Get ready for school

To make getting around campus easier once school starts, take some time to gather the essentials.

Find a place to park

Figure out what lot you want to use for parking and purchase a parking permit through WSU Parking Services or at the campus you plan to attend. Park free at the West, Morgan and Kaysville Centers. NOTE: Parking is a hot-button issue at every school, not just Weber. Parking passes for central lots are expensive and they go fast. Your most economical permit option is the Dee Event Center permit (only $17 per semester). This pass lets you park at the Dee, take the shuttle and jump off at the stop closest to your building. Just make sure you pad your commute times a bit if you’re taking the shuttle. Parking on the streets is free in surrounding neighborhoods, but it always fills up very early. And the locals get cranky if you block their driveway (trust me).

Get your Wildcard and UTA Ed Pass

Visit the information desk in the Shepherd Union Building to get your Wildcard and UTA Ed Pass. Your Wildcard is your student ID. Bring proof of registration and a picture ID. Be prepared to fill out a form, pay a $10 fee and have your picture taken. Your Wildcard gives you access to the library, testing center, computer labs, health center, veterans’ benefits, gym and athletic events. The UTA Ed pass gives you free transportation on all UTA buses, Frontrunner and TRAX. Ride to school, work, the mall or even Salt Lake or Provo.

Get books and gear

WSU students get discounts on computer equipment and electronics at the WSU Bookstore. NOTE: Textbook and technology purchases are tax free at the WSU Bookstore. But you can probably find your textbooks for cheaper online, if you’re willing to put in the extra time and energy.

Now that you have read through step one, step two, step three, step four, step five, step six, and step seven it’s time for the last and final step, what you have all been waiting for. . . step eight.

Step 6—Register for classes:
A Step-by-Step Guide for Returning Students

Posted on July 19, 2011 by Adam

Step 6: Register for classes

From Art to Zoology, WSU has something for everyone. If you’re all set to take classes next semester, you can check out the current course listings. Check out the course catalog to see what classes you should take for your major and minor. You can also review general education requirements.

Register for classes

Log into eWeber at weber.edu
Click on the “Student Services” tab
Click “Register (Add/Drop)” and then select the term for which you want to register from the drop-down menu.
Click on “Class Search” for a search tool to help you find your classes.
Follow the prompts to select the classes you want.

Registration start dates are listed under the “Student Services” tab.

BONUS: Guess this movie for a prize. Tell me the trick at the end of this movie for an even better prize.

Now just to make sure, we’ve all read step one, step two, step three, step four, step five, and step six? Ok good, onto step seven.

Step 5—Talk with an advisor:
A Step-by-Step Guide for Returning Students

Posted on July 15, 2011 by Adam

Step 5: Talk with an Advisor

Schedule an appointment with an academic advisor to navigate the more than 230 certificate and degree programs that Weber State offers. An advisor can also help you pick out classes that will work with your schedule and tell you about student resources that may be helpful. This listing breaks down the advisors by college and program, so it’s easy to find one for your area of study.

If you have been to college before…

You can log on to our online advising tool, CatTracks, to see how your credits will apply to a degree.

If you already know what you want to study…

Talk to the advisor for your program.

If you are undecided or a general studies student…

You can schedule an appointment with an advisor at Ogden or Davis campus, or at the West Center.

If you are unable to find your major or program advisor online…

Call the Student Success Center to be referred to the appropriate advisor: 801-626-6752 (option 5).

If you’re new here, be sure to check out Step 1, Step 2, Step 3 and Step 4…

Now onto Step 6.

Step 4—Find out about financial resources:
A Step-by-Step Guide for Returning Students

Posted on July 14, 2011 by Adam

SPOILER ALERT, you may want to read Step 1, Step 2, and Step 3 first…

Step 4: Find out about Financial Resources

So this step is kind of a big one, a lot of people talk themselves out of coming back to school because they feel like they can’t afford it. Even if you think you make too much money to qualify for financial aid, you still have plenty of options. Basically there are three types of financial aid.

Grants

Grants do not have to be repaid if you maintain satisfactory progress. Since this is the best kind of aid to get, funds are limited. You should apply early (March 1) to maximize your chances.

Scholarships

As a new student, you are automatically considered for academic scholarships as part of your admission application. All other scholarships require a separate application.

Student Loans

Student loans must be repaid, and there are many different types to choose from. Student loans can be a great resource for returning students (see below).

It all starts with FAFSA

All financial aid options start with filling out an application at fafsa.ed.gov. Make sure you have your most recent tax returns and W-2’s when completing the forms. WSU’s school code is 003680. It takes about 10 days before the Weber State financial aid office receives your FAFSA info, then you’ll need to log in to your student portal and complete the WSU Financial Aid application. (Remember Step 2? This is why you have to be admitted as a student before you can qualify for aid.) After that, you can log on to the student portal to check the status of your application and accept your award.

A note on Student Loans

Sure, grants and scholarships are great, and you should always look for the free stuff first when you’re trying to pay for college. But if you’re not able to secure that kind of financial aid, you should think about student loans.

Federal students loans offer benefits not typically found in private loans. These loans can help pay for part or all of your college expenses. You’ll never get financing terms this good for other major purchases (auto, home, appliances, etc.). So why not take advantage of this kind of borrowing for your education? Federal student loans offer:

Low fixed interest rates.
Income-based repayment plans.
Deferred payments while you’re in school.
Grace period once you leave school.

Make the investment in yourself, these loans are a great option for students who may not qualify for scholarships or grants. Remember, you should always exhaust federal student loan options before considering a private loan.

Yes, this is confusing…but it gets easier.

Navigating your way through the financial aid process can be very tricky (and intimidating) at first. Figuring out how to pay for college is one of the top reasons why people talk themselves out of coming back to school. But this gets easier. Once you’re in the system, it’s easier to renew and reapply for aid in the future. As a student, you’ll get very comfortable working around the student portal. And remember, there is always a deadline coming up and you have the chance to start this process every year. The financial aid office is very helpful, don’t be afraid to contact them if you have any questions.

Now…on to Step 5.

Step 3—See where you stand:
A Step-by-Step Guide for Returning Students

Posted on July 13, 2011 by Adam

If you haven’t already, you should check out Step 1 and Step 2…

Step 3: See where you stand

Take the Accuplacer exams (if necessary)

So now that you’ve been accepted to Weber State, it’s time to see what classes you can take. After you apply, you’ll receive an acceptance letter that will tell you if you need to take a placement exam before signing up for classes. The Accuplacer placement exam is a simple test to access your knowledge and skills in certain subjects. It’s basically a way to make sure you don’t take classes you don’t need (or that you’re not ready for yet).

There is a math test for Accuplacer ($10 fee) and a reading comprehension test ($5 fee). They each take about an hour, depending on your skill level. You can take the Accuplacer exams at several locations, visit the testing center site for details.

Set up your eWeber Account

eWeber is WSU’s online student portal. This is where you’ll:

register for classes.
check your transcript.
access your student e-mail account.
check your financial aid status
pay tuition.
review your grades.
and much, much more!

Get your eWeber account started here.

NOTE: If you’re using multiple email addresses, you can forward your Weber e-mail to another e-mail address by clicking on the “Options” tab and then selecting “Mailbox Management.”

Now on to Step 4…

Step 2—Apply for Admission:
A Step-by-Step Guide for Returning Students

Posted on July 13, 2011 by Adam

Step 2: Apply for Admission

Once you’ve familiarized yourself with Weber State University (see Step 1), your next step is to apply for admission.

Your best bet is to apply online, you don’t have to make a special trip to campus for this step. But there are few things you should keep in mind:

If you have not attended WSU before…

You’ll need to submit an admissions application, a $30 fee and official high school transcripts or GED scores.

If you have completed some college…

You’ll also need official transcripts from all colleges you have previously attended. Call the records office at your previous school and have them send your official transcript to:
Weber State University
Admissions Office
1137 University Circle
Ogden, UT 84408-1137

If you have not attended any other school since you last attended WSU…

You can update your student record online and then register for classes. Check out these detailed instructions on how to do it.

“But I don’t even know if I can afford to go to school yet!”

Relax, this is a very common concern. The only thing you have to pay at this point is the $30 application fee and once you’re in the system, you’re golden. You’ll be able to get academic and financial aid advising once you’ve been accepted. You’ll also receive updates on approaching deadlines.

…which leads us to Step 3…

Step 1—Explore Weber State University:
A Step-by-Step Guide for Returning Students

Posted on July 13, 2011 by Adam

So you’re thinking about how you should really come back to school and earn your degree, but maybe you’re a little overwhelmed by the process and don’t know where to start. We’re here to help. We’re going to walk you through each of the 8 steps to getting back into school, complete with helpful links and all kinds of tips you won’t find on “official” pages.

Step 1: Explore Weber State University

Now you don’t have to explore campus as thoroughly as we have, (or maybe you just want to explore degree options) but it’s good to get your bearings around the place before the first day of class. You can check out the official map that lists every building, but if you’re going to take classes on the main campus, you really only need to be familiar with two key locations at this point.

Shepherd Union Building

The Shepherd Union Building (SU on maps and directories) is one of the central hubs on campus. It has a computer lab, food court, and even a bowling alley. The info desk on the main floor is where you get your Wildcard (student ID) and there are a bunch of student support offices on the second floor. The bookstore is located on the first two floors (books and tech downstairs, apparel upstairs) where you can buy this awesome shirt. You can park in the pay lot and walk there, it’s $1/hour.

Student Services Building

Admissions, cashier, financial aid and a bunch of other basic services are in this building (SC on maps and directories). It can be confusing at first, there are a lot of ways to get in and out of this building (it even has a walkway to the Union Building) so give yourself some time to walk around both floors and note where the different offices are located. The Students Services building is a great place to study or relax between classes, it’s pretty quiet and there are lots of places to sit.

Additional locations

Weber State has a campuses in Ogden and Layton, but they also have three satellite centers (in Roy, Kaysville and Morgan) that offer a variety of services. Classes are available year round at the Ogden, Layton and Roy locations. The Kaysville and Morgan centers offer classes during fall and spring semesters. Remember, services vary by location. So make sure you find the bookstore, testing center and computer lab that are most convenient for you.

WSU Davis

The WSU Davis campus in Layton is just one main building (but I hear they’re adding a second building out there soon). You can visit after 4 pm and park free anywhere, or you’ll have to buy a visitor pass at the bookstore on the second floor if you go during the day. Parking on the street is free, but it’s a bit of a walk. The info desk is inside the main doors, but most of the student services are on the second floor, just off the elevator.

2750 N. University Park Boulevard, Layton
Student Programs and Services: 801-395-3460
Enrollment Services: 801-395-3480

WSU Kaysville Center

You can take some gen ed classes here, but since it’s inside the high school it’s not like you can go hang out and study.

Davis High School, Rm. 1301
325 S. Main, Kaysville
Call for appointment at: 801-402-8961

WSU Morgan Center

The Morgan Center is located in the portables behind the high school. It may not have a lot of curb appeal but can actually get a lot done here. It has student computer lab, testing services and free workshops. They also just installed some fancy video classroom gear, so you’ll be able to attend classes here that are being broadcast from other WSU locations.

241 E. Young St., Morgan
Enrollment Services:
801-829-3136

WSU West Center

The West Center in Roy probably has the most services of the three off-campus centers. And don’t let it’s location in the strip mall fool you, inside it’s completely decked out for students. It has a dedicated computer lab and testing center, and you can have your books delivered there too. The center also offers on-site advising and regular back-to-school workshops.

5627 S. 3500 W., Roy
Enrollment & Student Services:
801-689-4WSU (4978)

And now it’s time to check out step number two!