assessment and certification

What is the TABE assessment?

TABE stands for Tests of Adult Basic Education. The TABE assessment is an academic assessment that measures a person's grade level in reading, mathematics, and language. A TABE FAQ is provided by the State of Florida for students and educators.

Who has to take the TABE assessment?

All persons entering Florida Community College's adult studies or workforce credit certificate programs are required to take the TABE. Waiver opportunities are available for students entering workforce credit certificate programs.

When do I take the TABE assessment?

It depends upon the program you are entering. Persons desiring to enter Florida Community College's adult studies program should contact the nearest campus adult studies program to make arrangements for the TABE assessment. Persons entering workforce credit certificate programs may schedule an appointment to take the TABE for the first time by contacting the nearest assessment and certification center.

Is there a fee for the TABE assessment?

There is no fee for the TABE assessment for those persons entering a Florida Community College adult studies or workforce credit certificate program.

I need to take the TABE assessment for another school or agency. Is there a fee?

Yes. There is a $30 fee for the assessment. Please call the campus assessment and certification center nearest you for additional information.

How are the TABE assessment scores used?

Based on national reporting requirements, TABE scores of adult studies students are used to place them into an academic course that closely matches their current academic level. Upon completion of their coursework, many adult studies student are then required to successfully complete a post-test. Best practice guidelines are available for pre-testing and post-testing in adult studies programs based on recommendations from CTB McGraw Hill (the TABE vendor) and the State of Florida.

Workforce credit certificate program students must meet the minimum academic TABE scores for their program prior to program completion.

Who sets the TABE scores for the adult studies and workforce credit certificate programs?

The State of Florida with guidance from the federal government sets the TABE requirements for each adult studies program and course. The State of Florida sets the TABE requirement of each workforce credit certificate program.

Can I retake the TABE assessment?

You may retest after (a) six months or (b) upon completion of a Florida Community College vocational preparatory instruction (VPI) review class.

How do I prepare for the TABE assessment?

There are several opportunities to assist you in preparing for the TABE test:

Go to the "Practice TABE Test" as an excellent way to prepare the real test. Answers with explanations are provided at the end of the test.
If you want more thorough practice materials, McGraw Hill has published an excellent test preparation book, “TABE: Test of Adult Basic Education; The First Step to Lifelong Success (Level A).” The book is on reserve in campus libraries and is for sale in the campus bookstore or at private bookstores.
Review the materials pre and post materials on the Florida Department of Education website.

Take advantage of the free practice materials at “Test Prep Review.”

A brief list of skills measured by the TABE is available on the TABE preparation webpage.

When will I get my TABE assessment results?

Adult studies student scores are distributed at new student orientation or sent to the referring instructor. All other persons are given their score reports. Here is a sample of a TABE score report.

How do I get another copy of my scores?

There is a $5.00 fee for students and $10 fee for nonstudents to obtain a duplicate copy of TABE scores. Contact any assessment and certification center to make arrangements for a duplicate copy of your scores..

How long are my TABE scores good for?

Your TABE scores are good for two years at Florida Community College.