EAP Placement Test

By University policy, most international students – undergraduate or graduate – must take the EAP Placement Test prior to registering for classes, before the start of their first semester on campus, even if they completed the TOEFL test. Students’ letter of admission from the Office of International Affairs will indicate if they are required to take this test.

Some students who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents but are not proficient (or native-like) users of English may also need EAP courses. Undergraduate students in this category should follow the recommendations from this Guided Self-Placement. Graduate students in this category should speak to their advisor or the EAP Program about enrolling into an EAP course. Both undergraduate and graduate students may elect to take EAP courses even if they are not required to.

Because the EAP Placement Test is a placement test used to accurately determine English language skill level, students do not need to “prepare” for it. The scores are used to assign EAP classes that best meet students’ academic needs that will provide favorable English experiences necessary for a successful career at IU Indianapolis and beyond.

The courses prescribed based on the students’ results on the EAP Placement Test are required. Not completing the EAP requirement may result in delays in graduation.

Graduate Students

Graduate students who are being considered for a teaching role (tutor, lab assistant, teaching assistant, course instructor) are also required by university policy to take the SPEAK test and complete any required supplemental EAP courses recommended based on that test. The Graduate Office monitors compliance with the campus policy. Learn more about the SPEAK test.

Test Details

The EAP Placement test is designed to determine students’ level in various academic English skill areas. Students are tested in listening, reading, grammar, vocabulary, and writing.

The scores you receive on the different parts of the placement test are used to place you into, or exempt you from, IU Indianapolis EAP classes. The EAP classes at IU Indianapolis are designed to provide non-native speakers of English with the academic language support needed to be successful at an American university.

Dates and Registration

The EAP Placement Test is always given during the fall (August) and spring (January) orientation weeks, sponsored by the Office of International Affairs. Students who have not already taken the EAP Placement Test will be registered for a specific test time during the orientation activities.

Students who do not take the test during the August or January orientation week can schedule themselves for the EAP Placement Test at the Testing Center.

What to Bring

On the actual day of testing you should bring a picture ID (e.g., your passport) when you go to the Testing Center.

Also, bring your University ID Number (UID #). Without this, your test results cannot be reported via the IU Student Information System. Your testing fee cannot be processed without this number. You cannot take the test if you do not present a picture ID and a UID #.

For more information about the testing fee, refer to the Testing Center.

Test Results and Retesting

Results of the placement test will be available from your university advisor or the EAP Program Office within 10 working days from when you took the test. Scores are not given over the phone. Students admitted to IU Indianapolis should follow the instructions in the letter for obtaining orientation and academic advising information. Your test score will be valid for one year from the test date.

After taking the EAP Placement Test, students will receive their test results and placement via email from the EAP office.

Retake Eligibility:
Students who score 64 or higher on their first attempt are pre-approved to retake the test. They no longer need to email the Director of the EAP Program, Prof. Ene, for permission to retake the test.

Scheduling a Retake:
Eligible students can schedule their retake through the Testing Center’s website.

Retake Policy:

  • A maximum of two attempts is allowed for those who meet the criteria.
  • The results of the second test are final and will be used for placement.

For more information about scheduling your retake, please visit the Testing Center’s website.

Testing Center Location and Hours

The Testing Center is located in room SL070 in the Engineering Science and Technology Building. Hours are Monday-Friday 8:30am to 8:00pm, and Saturday 8:30am to 5:00pm.

Engineering Science and Technology Building (SL064)
723 W Michigan Street
Indianapolis, IN 46202
Phone: 317-278-2750