Abstract

The research reported in this paper is to provide practical advice for those taking the English placement test (EPT) into Sana’a community college (SCC) and to report on one means to meet the applicant’s needs after failing in the English college admission test (ECAT). SCC has an open-door enrollment policy that conflicts with the failure of the new applicants in passing ECAT. This study investigates the relationship between success on the EPT and academic success at SCC. The literature review supports the importance of taking the EPT to enter SCC by giving evidence from the experiences of other Community Colleges that have the same educational policy, The results show that there is a significant relationship between the EPT and student academic success, and the differences in student levels of English proficiency based on their years of study are not significant. Recommended steps to take in the creation of a useful and accurate EPT include assembling an assessment team, defining test takers and objectives, developing rubrics and rating scales, taking the test, and training administrators of the test. In respect to the outcomes of the research, there are some relevant suggestions and recommendations put forth.

Key words: Academic achievement, English placement test, English proficiency, community college.