TABE Preparation

Preparing for TABE

The TABE is a placement exam used to assess students' skills in English, math and reading for Career and Technical programs. Your score on the TABE will not prohibit you from entering a specific program, so you cannot fail. EFSC uses TABE 11/12 Level A Complete Battery to satisfy the Basic skills requirement. 

You must achieve the state-required scores for TABE 11/12 - Level A by program completion before EFSC can award your program certificate. Achievement levels are program specific. If you test below your program requirements, you will only need to study and retest in the subjects that are below your program's exit requirement. TABE exemptions are also possible if requirements are met. See your Academic Advisor to determine if you are eligible and qualify for an exemption.

How to practice the TABE Test Navigation

Students may practice the test navigation for TABE 11/2 - Level A online using tools developed by DRC Insight, the test's publisher. The TABE Online Tools training tutorials are extremely beneficial as a way to practice using the navigation tools in the test platform prior to your test appointment so you will not be overwhelmed on your testing day.

Important Note: You must use the Google Chrome web browser as the TABE Online Tools only work in that browser.  Visit the DRC Insight website, Once you have clicked the Online Tools Training link, choose the TABE 11/12 links for Reading, Mathematics and Language, then after clicking your desired subject link, click "Level A" and choose the "Standard" or "Audio" choice. You do not need to create an account: there will be a user name and password listed on the login screen to enter and use for the navigation tutorials.

Please practice all three subjects as the navigation tools are slightly different for the Reading, Mathematics, and Language sections.

To practice using the TABE Scientific Online Calculator, watch the very useful tutorial on how to access and practice using the Scientific Calculator, which is available when you take TABE 11/12. Follow the steps outlined in the video as you visit the TABE Online Tools Training Site.

Practicing Sample TABE Questions

DRC Insight also offers TABE 11/12 practice items online, just be sure to choose the Level A sample items.

TABE test preparation and practice material is also provided in an 18-page PDF document created by the State Department of Education, which includes sample questions, test taking tips and testing rules.

EFSC Libraries have TABE Preparation materials on reserve in each Campus Library. Contact the Library Reference Desk for assistance.

You may locate other practice and preparation materials for "TABE 11/12 - Level A, Complete Battery" through an Internet search for "TABE Study Guides."

TABE Details and Time Allotments

The test consists of three subtests: Reading (parts 1 and 2), Math (parts 1 and 2), and Language. By using the Online Version of the TABE, a student may progress through the subtests at their own pace, up to the maximum time allotments in each section. Each subject includes approximately 40 questions and time allotments are:

    • Reading Part I: 50 Minutes
    • Reading Part II: 50 Minutes
    • Math Part I: 30 Minutes
    • Math Part II: 35 Minutes (scientific calculator provided)
    • Language: 55 Minutes

TABE subtests contain the following types of questions:

    • Selected-response items (all subtests)
    • Gridded-response items (Math only)
    • Technology-enhanced items, such as drag & drop, select text, etc
    • Multiple-select items
    • Evidence-based selected response items
    • Two-part items (selected-response or multiple-select items)

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