Placement Testing & Orientation

All students new to MassBay need to complete placement testing and attend a new student orientation soon after being accepted to MassBay. If you have already taken college-level courses in English and/or mathematics you may be exempt from having to take a placement test. Please discuss transfer credit with an advisor in the Advising Center before taking a placement test.  

Placement Testing Information

Placement testing is required by the Massachusetts Board of Higher Education for all students seeking a degree or certificate. It will be necessary for you to complete an assessment in writing, reading, and mathematics if you plan to register for any English or mathematics or apply to a health program. These tests are not a requirement for admission to MassBay, but are used for the purpose of advising and placement into the appropriate courses.  

If you are a non-Native English speaker, comfortable with your own language, or have been living in the United States for less than 10 years, it is recommended that you complete the English as a Second Language (ESL) placement test.

Additionally, if you are a student that does not possess a high school diploma or GED certificate (and are not currently in high school), you will need to complete the Ability to Benefit (ATB) placement test. Please contact the Admission's Office at 781-239-2500 for more information.

College Orientation Information

You MUST complete Placement Testing BEFORE you attend an Orientation. College Orientation is required of all new full-time students and is strongly recommended for part-time students.

Orientation is your time to learn about student life at MassBay, programs and services for students. As well as receive your copy of the MassBay Student Handbook. 


Students in our Health Professions Programs are required to attend a special Program Orientation. This orientation will introduce you to the program and related labs, provide an overview of what you can expect, and review the clinical or technical training associated with your major. You will also receive your Health Professions Student Handbook at this time.

Sign up for Placement Testing

Sign up for Orientation

Placement Test FAQ's

Placement Test Sample Questions