Ability-to-Benefit Test Latest Update

Ability-to-Benefit Test Latest Update

The U.S. Department of Education periodically updates the list of approved Ability-to-Benefit (ATB) tests and their respective passing scores to ensure that students without a high school diploma or its equivalent have viable pathways to access federal financial aid. The most recent update was published in the Federal Register on June 14, 2024.

Background

The Ability-to-Benefit provision allows students who lack a high school diploma or GED to qualify for Title IV federal student aid by demonstrating their capability to benefit from postsecondary education. To establish eligibility, such students must:

1. Pass an approved ATB test administered independently.

2. Complete six credit hours or 225 clock hours applicable toward a degree or certificate.

3. Complete a State process approved by the Secretary of Education.

Additionally, students must be enrolled in an eligible career pathway program (ECPP) to utilize these ATB alternatives.

Approved ATB Tests and Passing Scores

As of the latest update, the following ATB tests and passing scores have been approved:

1. Combined English Language Skills Assessment (CELSA), Forms 1 and 2

   • Passing Score: 97 for both Forms 1 and 2
   • Purpose: Designed for students whose native language is not English and who are not fluent in English, particularly if the academic program includes an ESL component.
   • Publisher Contact: Association of Classroom Teacher Testers (ACCT), 1187 Coast Village Road, Suite 1, #378, Montecito, CA 93108. Telephone: (805) 965-5704. Email: [email protected].

2. ACCUPLACER (Computer-adaptive tests and COMPANION ACCUPLACER Forms J and K): Reading Test, Writing Test, and Arithmetic Test

   • Passing Scores:
     • Reading Test: 233
     • Writing Test: 235
     • Arithmetic Test: 230
   • Purpose: Assesses proficiency in core subjects to determine academic readiness for postsecondary education.
   • Publisher Contact: The College Board, 250 Vesey Street, New York, NY 10281. Telephone: (800) 607-5223. Email: [email protected].

3. Texas Success Initiative (TSI) Assessment—Computer-adaptive tests and COMPANION TSI Forms T and V: Reading Placement Test, Writing Placement Test, Mathematics Placement Test

   • Passing Scores:
     • Reading Placement Test: 336
     • Writing Placement Test: 345
     • Mathematics Placement Test: 326
   • Purpose: Evaluates readiness for college-level work in Texas institutions.
   • Publisher Contact: The College Board, 250 Vesey Street, New York, NY 10281. Telephone: (800) 607-5223. Email: [email protected].

Note: The CELSA test is specifically approved for students whose native language is not English and who are not fluent in English, provided the academic program includes an ESL component.

Tests No Longer Approved

The following tests have been removed from the list of approved ATB tests:

1. Wonderlic Basic Skills Test (WBST) Verbal Forms VS-1 & VS-2, Quantitative Forms QS-1 & QS-2

   • Effective Dates: July 1, 2015, through March 31, 2023
   • Publisher Contact: Wonderlic, Inc., 400 Lakeview Parkway, Suite 200, Vernon Hills, IL 60061.

2. Spanish Wonderlic Basic Skills Test (Spanish WBST) Verbal Forms VS-1 & VS-2, Quantitative Forms QS-1 & QS-2

   • Effective Dates: July 1, 2015, through March 31, 2023
   • Publisher Contact: Wonderlic, Inc., 400 Lakeview Parkway, Suite 200, Vernon Hills, IL 60061.

These tests are no longer valid for determining a student's eligibility for Title IV federal student aid.

Implications for Students and Institutions

Students without a high school diploma or equivalent who seek federal financial aid must ensure they take one of the currently approved ATB tests and achieve the specified passing scores. Institutions are responsible for:

• Administering approved ATB tests in accordance with the guidelines set forth by the Department of Education.

• Ensuring that students are enrolled in eligible career pathway programs (ECPPs) that meet federal requirements.

• Staying informed about updates to approved tests and passing scores to maintain compliance with federal regulations.

For detailed information on administering ATB tests, institutions can refer to the "Policies and Procedures for Administering Ability to Benefit (ATB) Tests" provided by the College Board.

Conclusion

The Department of Education's updates to the list of approved ATB tests and passing scores are crucial for maintaining the integrity and accessibility of federal financial aid programs. Students and educational institutions must stay informed about these changes to ensure compliance and to support students in achieving their educational goals. For the most current information, stakeholders should regularly consult official publications and notices from the Department of Education.