Aerial view of TCC campus common

Placement Process for Class Registration

Here To Help You

TCC Placement Services is here to uncover your unique strengths, ensuring your success in classes. 

*Please apply to TCC and acquire your student ID number before beginning the Placement process.*

Completing Directed Self-Placement (DSP) Survey helps students with:

  • Accurate Course Placement
  • Personalized Learning Paths
  • Enhanced Confidence
  • Informed Decision-making

Running Start, Fresh Start, English Language Acquisition, Basic Education for Adults (BEdA), and International students should check with those programs regarding placement.

English and Math Placement Surveys 

The Directed Self-Placement (DSP) Surveys pinpoint the starting point for students in both English and Mathematics. With support of an Academic Advisor, students will design a course schedule that celebrates their strengths.

English Directed Self-Placement

Fee: FREE

Time: One hour

Preparation: Students do not need to prepare ahead of time.

This is NOT a test. The English DSP evaluates a student's ability to read, write and problem solve at the college level. Student's first college English class should be challenging, but classes should also start at student's current skill level. 

Note: Directed Self-Placement does not apply to Running Start, Fresh Start and International students.

*If you have taken a English 101 class at another college or university and received a grade of "C" or higher — no English DSP will be needed.

English Directed Self-Placement

Math Directed Self-Placement

Fee: FREE

Time: One hour

Preparation: Students do not need to prepare ahead of time.

This is NOT a test. The Math DSP uses a series of questions from previous coursework, asking student's to HONESTLY evaluate their confidence level on the algebra skills necessary to be successful in a college level Math course. Questions are designed to determine if students will benefit from a support (co-requisite) course. Information gathered in the placement survey provides students with an understanding of material that will be covered in a variety of course levels. 

Note: Directed Self-Placement does not apply to Running Start, Fresh Start, or BEdA students.

*The Math DSP must be completed to cover enrollment for Math, Science or PSYC classes.

Math Directed Self-Placement

Email unofficial college transcripts to placement@tacomacc.edu. Include: full name, student ID number and desired program/degree. Learn more about your placement options and read about academic readiness!

Contact Us

Please email Placement Services with additional questions or concerns.

Need Certification or Employment-related Testing?

By appointment only

Certification & Testing Center

Location: Bldg. 6
253-460-4364