Testing & Workforce Certification Center

WorkKeys assessments have been used for more than two decades to measure essential workplace skills and help people build career pathways.

WorkKeys is a skills assessment system that helps employers select, hire, train, develop, and retain a quality workforce. The assessments measure foundational and soft skills.

WorkKeys assessments measure skills that employers feel are essential to success in the workplace. Students, job seekers, and seasoned professionals can use WorkKeys to learn more about their strengths and weaknesses and gain a valid way to demonstrate their abilities to employers. Educators and employers can use it to help take the guesswork out of determining student, applicant, and employee qualifications.

Each WorkKeys assessment offers varying levels of difficulty. The levels build on each other, incorporating the skills assessed at the previous levels. For example, at Level 5, individuals need the skills from Levels 3, 4, and 5. The complexity can also increase as the quantity and/or density of the information increases.

WORKKEYS CERTIFICATES

National Career Readiness Certificate: To earn the National Career Readiness Certificate (NCRC), you must successfully complete the WorkKeys assessments in Applied Math, Graphic Literacy, and Workplace Documents.

The NCRC costs $99 and includes the three required assessments, one free retake in the event of failure, and the NCRC Certificate.

Please schedule your assessments a full 48 hours prior to your preferred date and time.

There are four NCRC certificate levels:

• Bronze - minimum Level 3 in all 3 assessments
• Silver - minimum Level 4 in all 3 assessments
• Gold - minimum Level 5 in all 3 assessments
• Platinum - minimum Level 6 in all 3 assessments

Proficiency Certificate for Teacher Assistants (PCTA): The WorkKeys Proficiency Certificate for Teacher Assistants provides a valid, field-proven way to boost elementary education, in accordance with the No Child Left Behind Act. It enables paraprofessional teacher assistants to demonstrate their proficiency in four content areas:

• WorkKeys Applied Math - minimum Level 4 required
• Business Writing - minimum Level 3 required
• WorkKeys Workplace Documents - minimum Level 5 required (in MA)
• The Instructional Support Inventory (ISI)

Through the three WorkKeys assessments and on-the-job classroom observation (ISI), teacher assistants can demonstrate knowledge and skill levels in line with what is achieved in two years of postsecondary study.

The PCTA costs $99 and includes the three required assessments, the ISI (classroom observation), one free retake in the event of failure, and the PCTA Certificate.

Please schedule your assessments a full 48 hours prior to your preferred date and time.

Download our Business Writing Study Guide.

Other Foundational Skills Assessments

• Applied Technology
• Workplace Observation

Soft Skills Assessments

• Fit
• Talent

additional information & practice tests

Click here to schedule your test appointment

for hcc students

The medical assistant program at HCC prepares students to become registered medical assistants (RMAs) certified by the American Medical Technologists (AMT).

Prior to taking the exam, you are required to successfully complete the medical assistant certificate program, including MEA 225, get approved by AMT, and receive your authorization letter.

for non-hcc students

All AMT candidates must be approved by AMT and receive an authorization letter. Please consult with your institution to be sure you have completed all course requirements.

Please note: Prior to scheduling your testing appointment, you must have already:

1. Registered for your exam(s) with AMT.
2. Received your "Authorization to Test" letter from AMT. It is important to carefully review the information in your authorization letter. If any of the information is incorrect or if information has changed, please contact AMT at 847.823.5169.

Please visit the AMT website to create an account with Pearson VUE, pay for your exam, and schedule your test appointment.

Castle Worldwide provides examination delivery, design, and development services to certification and licensure organizations, government agencies, corporations, educational institutions, and trade and professional associations.

Castle's mission is to provide you with a safe, secure, comfortable, and convenient testing experience.

If you need assistance with candidate services including scheduling, testing, or reporting, please feel free to contact a customer service representative by telephone at 1.919.572.6880.

Please contact your test sponsor for more information. To learn more about testing with Castle, see test instructions, sample questions, practice tests, and certification test FAQ's, please click here.

Candidates must pass the CTSP exam after completing the CTSP workshop. TCIA strongly recommends taking the exam immediately after the workshop.

To learn more about the workshop and exam, please visit the TCIA website.

 The CTSP exam is a three-hour paper/pencil exam. The proctoring fee is $55.

Allowed testing Aids

• The American National Standard: Z133.1- 2012 manual for reference
• The test center will provide
  • Scratch paper and pencils
  • A simple four-function calculator
  • A sound-deafening headset            

Day of Testing

Please bring a valid photo/signature ID (i.e. license or passport). You will not be allowed to test without a valid ID.  

Please Note: Your testing appointment must be scheduled with HCC a full 48 hours prior to your preferred date and time.   

Click here to schedule your exam appointment.

PLEASE NOTE:  Effective July 1, 2018, the new CLEP exam fee will be $87. The current $85 fee will still apply to all exams purchased through June 30, 2018.
CLEP testing will continue to be free for eligible military service members, spouses, and civilian employees (eligibility details). 

CLEP (the College-Level Examination Program®) was created to help individuals with prior knowledge in a college course subject earn their degree efficiently and inexpensively. That prior learning could have taken place through advanced high school courses, independent reading and study, online courseware or textbooks, noncredit courses, or on-the-job training. 

CLEP  offers 33 exams that cover intro-level college course material. These computer-based exams are offered at the HCC Testing & Workforce Certification Center. By earning a satisfactory score, you earn the same amount of credit as a student who has successfully completed the same course through a college or university.

For Holyoke Community College Students: HCC provides credit for successful scores on 30 CLEP exams. Please contact us for information on available exams. You will find exam descriptions, sample questions, and study guides here. View the HCC CLEP Course Equivalency Chart.

For Non-Holyoke Community College Students: Please consult your institution's Advising Center and/or Registrar's Office for required passing scores and credits awarded. You will find exam descriptions, sample questions and study guides here. View CLEP 20178-2018 Credit-Granting Recommendations.

CLEP for Non-Military

Total Cost per CLEP Exam: $120 per exam ($85 exam fee paid directly to CLEP, plus $35 HCC proctoring fee)

Modern States might be able to pay your exam fee. Learn more.

Create Your CLEP Account:

1. Go to www.collegeboard.org/clep to create your CLEP account
2. Select your exam
3. Select your score recipient institution
4. Pay the CLEP exam fee
5. Print your CLEP ticket to bring to your test appointment

Schedule Your CLEP Exam Appointment

Please note: All exams must be scheduled a minimum of 48 hours prior to your preferred dates and times. Please be sure to schedule your exam appointment so you can comfortably complete your exam prior to our test center closing times. Click here to schedule your exam.

For Special Accommodations
For special accommodations (documented), please contact the Testing Center to make arrangements well in advance of your test date.

How Do I Get Credit for CLEP?

When you create an account with CLEP at www.collegeboard.org/clep, select your score-recipient institution. An official score report will automatically be forwarded to your school recipient within 7-10 business days. You will receive a copy of your score for your records immediately after the examination, except for College Composition which takes 2-3 weeks and will be simultaneously mailed directly to the address you provided in your CLEP account and to your score-recipient institution. If you opt not to name your score recipient when creating your CLEP account and purchasing your exam from CLEP, you can request a transcript from CLEP at a later time for a $20 fee by calling 800.257.9558 or submitting the Transcript Request Form available here.

What Should I Bring on Exam Day?

1. Your Primary ID: Government-issued photo/signature, i.e. driver's license, state ID, or passport
2. Your CLEP ticket

No cell phones, calculators, electronic devices of any kind. All watches, all bracelets, books, personal belongings, papers or food/drinks, etc. are allowed in the testing room. A light sweater or jacket is allowed, but you will be asked to turn it inside-out prior to entering the testing room. Secure lockers are available free of charge. Scratch paper, pencils, and earplugs are provided by the test center. Exams are 90 minutes long, except College Composition, which is two hours long.

CLEP for Active Military personnel

The HCC Testing & Workforce Certification Center is a fully-funded CLEP partner. Through this program, eligible DANTES-funded test takers attempting a test title for the first time will have their $85 exam fee funded by DANTES, and the testing center will waive the $35 registration fee.

Please go to www.clep.collegeboard.org/earn-college-credit/military-benefits to review the DANTES eligibility chart and see if you or your spouse is eligible.

Day of Testing: Please bring your CLEP ticket and two valid forms of ID (your valid military ID and a government-issued photo/signature ID i.e. driver's license or passport)

For Special Accommodations

For special accommodations (documented), please contact the Testing Center to make arrangements well in advance of your test date.

How Do I Get Credit for CLEP?

When you create an account with CLEP at www.collegeboard.org/clep, select your school recipient. An official score report will automatically be forwarded to your school recipient within 7-10 business days. You will receive a copy of your score for your records immediately after the examination, except for College Composition which takes 2-3 weeks and will be simultaneously mailed directly to the address you provided in your CLEP account and to your score-recipient institution. If you opt not to name your score recipient when creating your CLEP account and purchasing your exam from CLEP, you can request a transcript from CLEP at a later time for a $20 fee by calling 800.257.9558 or submitting the Transcript Request Form available here.

I'm Ready to Take a CLEP Exam. What Do I Do?

Please go to www.collegeboard.org/clep to create your account, order your exam, and select you score recipients. Please print your CLEP ticket and bring it with you to your CLEP test appointment.

How Do I Schedule My CLEP Exam Appointment at the Test Center?

The HCC Testing & Workforce Certification Center is a fully-funded CLEP partner. Thus, both the $85 exam fee due to DSST and the $35 proctoring fee due to HCC are waived.

Please note: All exams must be scheduled a minimum of 48 hours prior to your preferred dates and times. Please be sure to schedule your exam appointment so you can comfortably complete your exam prior to our test center closing times. Click here to schedule your exam.

What Should I Bring on Exam Day?

1. Your active military ID
2. Your Primary ID: Government-issued photo/signature i.e. driver's license or passport
3. Your CLEP ticket

No cell phones, calculators, electronic devices of any kind. All watches, all bracelets, books, personal belongings, papers or food/drinks, etc. are allowed in the testing room. A light sweater or jacket is allowed, but you will be asked to turn it inside-out prior to entering the testing room. Secure lockers are available free of charge. Scratch paper, pencils, and earplugs are provided by the test center. Exams are 90 minutes long, except College Composition, which is two hours long.

Test Center Hours

Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.  

Parking

Please park your vehicle in Lot D. If the gate to Lot D is closed you can access it via Lot E. Please click here to access directions to our campus and a campus map.

Always check with your academic advisor or registrar to determine which CLEP exam is right for you!

If it is determined that you need to take the college course assessment, it is available on campus through the HCC Assessment Center, Campus Center 164. You'll find all the information here. Have questions? Contact the Assessment Center at 413.552.2015 or assessment@hcc.edu. We're here to help!

The Crane Institute of America Certification, LLC (CIC) is an independent certifying organization providing OSHA-recognized crane operator, rigger, and signalperson certifications.

The purpose of CIC is to:

• Assess the knowledge, skills, and abilities of crane operators, riggers, and signalpersons
• Offer efficient and cost-effective accredited certifications
• Provide the most "real world" written and practical assessments

Learn more on the CIC website.

Scheduling Your CIC Exam at HCC

Your exam appointment must be scheduled a minimum of 48 hours prior to your preferred exam date and time. The testing fee is per hour and paid at the time of scheduling.

Day of Testing

Please bring a photo/signature ID (i.e., driver's license or passport) to your test appointment.

Please click here to schedule your exam.

The HCC Testing & Workforce Certification Center is a National College Testing Association (NCTA) approved test site for distance learning proctored exams. We offer distance learning candidates a secure, quiet, and clean environment for their exams.

Please confirm ahead of time that your college or university recognizes the HCC Testing & Workforce Certification Center as an approved proctoring site by forwarding our test center information to your institution.

Please note: All exams must be scheduled a minimum of 48 hours prior to your preferred dates and times. Click here to schedule and pay for your test appointment.

The cost for a proctored exam is $25 per testing hour. The fee is based on the maximum exam time permitted, as defined by your institution. Proctor fees are not pro-rated.

About DSST

The nationally recognized DSST program allows you to receive college credit for learning acquired outside traditional classrooms. DSST exams offer students a cost-effective, time-saving way to use their life experiences and knowledge to accomplish their educational goals. Currently, over 1,900 colleges and universities recognize the DSST program and award college credit for passing scores.

You can fast-forward your college education and save on tuition through the DSST credit-by-exam program. DSST helps you receive college credits through a suite of more than 30 exams in college subject areas such as Social Sciences, Math, Applied Technology, Business, Physical Sciences, and Humanities.

For Holyoke Community College Students: DSST/HCC course equivalencies coming soon

For Non-Holyoke Community College Students: Please consult with your institution's Advising Center and/or Registrar's Office for required passing scores and credits awarded. You will find exam fact sheets and practice tests here.

DSST for civilians

Total cost per DSST exam: $115 per exam ($80 exam fee paid directly to DSST plus the $35 HCC proctoring fee)

At your DSST appointment, you will create our DSST account, and select your exam and your score-recipient institution. Your score-recipient institution code can be found here (click on the Locate an Institution tab at the top of the page). An official score report will automatically be forwarded to your school recipient within 7-10 business days. You will see your score report online upon completion of your exam.

For Special Accommodations

For special accommodations (documented), please contact the Testing Center to make arrangements well in advance of your test date.

How Do I Schedule My DSST Exam Appointment at the Test Center?

All exams must be scheduled a minimum of 48 hours prior to your preferred date(s)/time(s). You must also be sure to schedule your exam appointment so you can comfortably complete your exam prior to our test center closing times.

Test Center Hours:
Monday - Thursday: 8 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Friday: 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Saturday: Please contact the test center via telephone at 413.552.2506 or via email at testing@hcc.edu

Please note: All exams must be scheduled a minimum of 48 hours prior to your preferred dates and times. Please be sure to schedule your exam appointment so you can comfortably complete your exam prior to our test center closing times. 

Please note: The DSST Public Speaking Exam requires a private room. Please email testing@hcc.edu with your chosen date and time so a private room can be scheduled for your exam.

Please click here to schedule your test.

How Do I Get Credit for DSST?

When you create an account with DSST account at the testing center, you will be asked to include your school recipient DSST site code. This can be found here (click on the Locate an Institution tab at the top of the page). An official score report will automatically be forwarded to your school recipient within 7-10 business days. You will see your score report online upon completion of your exam.

What Should I Bring on Exam Day?

1. Your Primary ID: Government-issued photo/signature i.e. driver's license, state ID or passport

No cell phones, calculators, electronic devices of any kind. All watches, all bracelets, books, personal belongings, papers or food/drinks, etc. are allowed in the testing room. A light sweater or jacket is allowed, but you will be asked to turn it inside-out prior to entering the testing room. Secure lockers are available free of charge. Scratch paper, pencils, and earplugs are provided by the test center. Exams are 90 minutes long, except College Composition, which is two hours long.

Parking

Please park your vehicle in Lot D. If the gate to Lot D is closed you can access it via Lot E. Please click here to access directions to our campus and a campus map.

DSST for Active Military Personnel

The HCC Testing & Workforce Certification Center is a fully-funded DSST test center. Through this program, eligible DANTES-funded test takers attempting a test title for the first time will have their $80 exam fee funded by DANTES, and the test center will waive the $35 registration fee. At your DSST appointment, you will create our DSST account, and select your exam and your score-recipient institution. Your score-recipient institution code can be found here (click on the Locate an Institution tab at the top of the page). An official score report will automatically be forwarded to your school recipient within 7-10 business days. You will see your score report, online, upon completion of your exam. Useful links to determine your military eligibility include:

• U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
• G.I. Bill
• National Testing Program
• Dantes Funding Guide

Please bring two valid forms of ID:

1. Your valid military ID
2. A government-issued photo/signature ID, i.e. driver's license or passport

For Special Accommodations

For special accommodations (documented), please contact the Testing Center to make arrangements well in advance of your test date.

How Do I Get Credit for DSST?

You can create your DSST account online at the test center at the time of your test appointment. You will be asked to include your school recipient DSST site code. This can be found here (click on the Locate an Institution tab at the top of the page). An official score report will automatically be forwarded to your school recipient within 7-10 business days. You will see your score report online upon completion of your exam.

How Do I Schedule My DSST Exam Appointment at the Testing Center?

The HCC Testing & Workforce Certification Center is a fully-funded DSST test site. Thus, both the $80 exam fee due to DSST and the $30 proctoring fee due to HCC are waived. All exams must be scheduled a minimum of 48 hours prior to your preferred date(s)/time(s). You must also be sure to schedule your exam appointment so you can comfortably complete your exam prior to our test center closing times.

Test Center Hours:

Monday - Thursday: 8 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Friday: 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Saturday: Please contact the test center via telephone at 413.552.2506 or via email at testing@hcc.edu

Please note: The DSST Public Speaking Exam requires a private room. Please email testing@hcc.edu with your chosen date and time so a private room can be scheduled for your exam.

Please click here to schedule your exam.

What Should I Bring on Exam Day?

1. Your active military ID
2. Your Primary ID: Government-issued photo/signature, i.e. driver's license or passport

No cell phones, calculators, electronic devices of any kind. All watches, all bracelets, books, personal belongings, papers or food/drinks, etc. are allowed in the testing room. A light sweater or jacket is allowed, but you will be asked to turn it inside-out prior to entering the testing room. Secure lockers are available free of charge. Scratch paper, pencils, and earplugs are provided by the test center. Exams are 90 minutes long, except College Composition, which is two hours long.

Parking

Please park your vehicle in Lot D. If the gate to Lot D is closed you can access it via Lot E. Please click here to access directions to our campus and a campus map.

Always check with your academic advisor or registrar to determine which DSST exam is right for you!

HCC provides an opportunity to earn your high school equivalency certificate through the GED or HiSET exams. The exams are online, though a paper test option is available. Sample questions and practice tests are available to help you prepare. Test takers can also access career counseling and learn more about furthering their education.

What's on the GED Exam?

The GED test has four subject areas:

1. Reasoning Through Language Arts 
2. Mathematical Reasoning
3. Science
4. Social Studies

Learn More About GED 

Information regarding testing fees and requirements can be found on the GED website.

To Apply

To register, visit the GED website and create an account. After creating an account, you can register for the test. You may also download free preparation materials and information about GED testing procedures.

Transportation & Parking

Free parking is available in campus lots. There is also frequent bus service available to the HCC campus.

From Springfield take the Purple 11 PVTA bus

From Westfield take the Blue 233 PVTA bus

From Northampton and Easthampton take the Red 41 PVTA bus

PVTA bus schedules are available online or at the HCC switchboard in the lobby of the Frost Building.

Contact

Email: testing@hcc.edu

why take the ged?

If you have outside training or work skills equivalent to an HCC course, you can earn HCC credits by taking HCC Challenge Exams. Challenge Exams are computer-based exams administered at the HCC Testing & Workforce Certification Center. 

Please note: All exams must be scheduled a minimum of 72 hours prior to your preferred dates and times. Please be sure to schedule your exam appointment so you can comfortably complete your exam prior to our test center closing times. Once you have scheduled your exam, please notify the testing center of your testing date by emailing testing@hcc.edu.

Testing Hours

Monday – Thursday: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Friday: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Please check with your advisor to be sure the HCC Challenge Exams are right for you!

Frequently Asked Questions
Complete List of Challenge Exams
Scheduling

Frequently Asked Questions

I plan on earning my bachelor's degree. Will HCC Challenge Exam credits transfer?

Challenge Exam credits are valid only at HCC and currently will not transfer to other institutions.

How many credits can I earn through HCC Challenge Exams?

The amount of credits per exam corresponds to the amount of credits in the HCC course. Please note, you can only earn up to half the overall credits for your certificate or degree by taking challenge exams or other get-college-credit exams (i.e., CLEP and DSST).

How long is a challenge exam?

You will have up to three hours to complete the exam.

How often can I take a challenge exam?

Exams can be taken once every three months. Once you complete the exam, you will find out whether you passed or failed, but not your score.

What is the passing score for a challenge exam?

The passing score is 70%.

How and when will the exam score be recorded on my transcript?

The information will be transmitted to the Registrar and will appear on your transcript once you have other HCC credit.

Are there study guides available?

No, at this time there are not.

I have a documented disability. How can I receive assistance (i.e., reader or scribe) or more time for the exam?

Please contact HCC's Office of Students with Disabilities & Deaf Services (413.552.2582/TTY) to arrange for accommodation. Please contact them at least two weeks prior to your planned test.

How often are challenge exams offered?

Testing is available Monday through Friday with start times between 9:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m., exclusive of holidays. An appointment is required.

How much does a challenge exam cost?

The cost is $35 per exam.

Is the fee refundable if I change my mind, or if the testing center is closed for inclement weather?

The $35 fee is forfeited if you decide not to take the exam once it has already been scheduled. Your exam can be rescheduled once (via RegisterBlast) within a three-month period. After the three-month period, your $35 fee is forfeited.

Where do I take a challenge exam?

Challenge exams are taken at the HCC Testing & Workforce Certification Center located in the Kittredge Center (Room 204).

Complete list of HCC Challenge Exams

CRJ 102: Criminal Evidence
Examination of the rules of evidence, with emphasis on the best evidence rule, the hearsay rule, the exception to the rule, corpus delicti, opinion, evidence, circumstantial evidence, privileged communications, admissions and confessions, witnesses, courtroom procedure, and testifying in court.

HTH 114: Medical Terminology
An introduction to the terminology of medicine and health care, based on the study of medical word roots, prefixes, and suffixes. Terminology is presented according to physiologic systems. In addition to basic medical terminology, the course introduces medical abbreviations and some common pharmacological terms.

SSN 101: Strategies for College Success: Focus on Adult Learners
This course is designed to assist adult learners make a successful transition to college. Students will learn about the expectations of the college environment, how to access support services, and how to engage in personal assessment the will encourage the identification of individual strengths. Topics will include career path exploration, time management strategies, and instruction that will serve to empower students to develop academic skills in core competencies including critical thinking, information literacy, quantitative reasoning, effective communication, and knowledge of diversity.

Scheduling

All exams must be scheduled a minimum of 72 hours prior to your preferred date(s)/time(s). You must also be sure to schedule your exam appointment so you can comfortably complete your exam prior to our test center closing times. Once you have scheduled your exam, please notify the testing center of your testing date by emailing testing@hcc.edu so your exam can be set up and prepared in time for your exam date.

Test Center Hours:                  
Monday - Thursday: 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. 
Friday: 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. 
Saturday: Please contact the test center via telephone at 413.552.2506 or via email at testing@hcc.edu 

Please click here to schedule your exam.

The Testing & Workforce Certification Center, located in the Kittredge Center Room 204, will administer all HCC make-up exams throughout the academic year and summer beginning with the Fall 2017 semester.

TEST CENTER HOURS OF OPERATION

Academic Year:

Monday – Thursday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. (exams collected by 5:45 p.m. at the latest)
Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. (exams collected by 3:45 p.m. at the latest)

Check our schedule for Saturday hours.

Summer Hours:

Monday – Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. (exams collected by 3:45 p.m. at the latest)
Check our schedule for Saturday hours.

HCC STUDENTS

Please confirm the date and time you should take your make-up exam with your instructor prior to scheduling your test appointment. It is essential to select a start time that will allow you to take full advantage of the exam time as defined by your instructor.

Day of Testing

Please bring your HCC Student ID or photo/signature ID (i.e. license, passport) to your test appointment, and arrive on time.

Please Note: No ID = No Testing.

Please note: All exams must be scheduled a minimum of 48 hours prior to your preferred dates and times. Please be sure to schedule your exam appointment so you can comfortably complete your exam prior to our test center closing times. 

Please click here to schedule your test appointment.

HCC FACULTY

Please upload exams and/or exam instructions to the test center via Register Blast a minimum of 48 hours prior to the preferred test date/time. Simply follow the instructions emailed to you by the HCC Academic Affairs Office to create a Register Blast account and submit your exams and/or instructions to the test center. Feel free to contact the test center with your questions by emailing testing@hcc.edu.

Once completed, the exam will be hand-delivered to your division mailbox by test center staff in one of our red envelopes. Please return our red envelope to your division staff assistant or directly to the test center in KC 204. Please remind your students that all HCC make-up exams will be administered in the Testing & Workforce Certification Center. Students will schedule test appointments at hcc.edu/testing.

Please schedule your exams according to dates/times outlined for your course and section by your instructor.

Please note: All exams must be scheduled a minimum of 48 hours prior to your preferred dates and times. Please be sure to schedule your exam appointment so you can comfortably complete your exam prior to our test center closing times. 

Day of Testing

Please bring your HCC Student ID or photo/signature ID (i.e. license, passport) to your test appointment. Please arrive on time for your test appointment.

HCC Testing & Workforce Certification Center
Kittredge Center, Room 204
303 Homestead Ave.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Phone: 413.552.2506
Email: testing@hcc.edu

Please click here to schedule your test appointment.

HCC provides an opportunity to earn your high school equivalency certificate through the HiSET or GED tests. The tests are online, though a paper test option is available. Sample questions and practice tests are available to help you prepare. Test takers can also access career counseling and learn more about furthering their education.

What's on the HiSET Exam?

Your skills and knowledge are measured in five core areas that make up the five HiSET subtests:

1. Language Arts - Reading
2. Language Arts - Writing
3. Mathematics
4. Science
5. Social Studies

Learn More About HiSET 

Information regarding testing fees and requirements can be found on the HiSET website.

To Apply

To register, visit the HiSET website and create an account. After creating an account, you can register for the test. You may also download free preparation materials and information about HiSET testing procedures.

Transportation & Parking

Free parking is available in campus lots. There is also frequent bus service available to the HCC campus.

From Springfield take the Purple 11 PVTA bus

From Westfield take the Blue 233 PVTA bus

From Northampton and Easthampton take the Red 41 PVTA bus

PVTA bus schedules are available online or at the HCC switchboard in the lobby of the Frost Building.

Kryterion is a full-service test development and delivery company that provides world-class online testing technology integrating item banking, test delivery, and real time reports while leveraging a global network of testing centers. Kryterion is the market leader in live Online Proctoring, which utilizes remote video monitoring to observe test takers where they live, learn, or work.

If you need more information on how to register, please contact your test sponsor or call Kryterion directly at 1.800.403.6199.

Test Taker Instructions for Onsite Exams
Kryterion Sponsors & Exams

Law School Admission Test (LSAT)

The LSAT is an integral part of the law school admission process in the United States, Canada, and a growing number of other countries. It provides a standard measure of acquired reading and verbal reasoning skills that law schools can use as one of several factors in assessing applicants. Please click here for additional information.

The LSAT is designed to measure skills that are considered essential for success in law school: the reading and comprehension of complex texts with accuracy and insight; the organization and management of information and the ability to draw reasonable inferences from it; the ability to think critically; and the analysis and evaluation of the reasoning and arguemnts of others.

There are three multiple-choice question types in the LSAT:

• Reading comprehension questions measure the ability to read, with understanding and insight, examples of lengthy and complex materials similar to those commonly encountered in law school. Please click here for more information.
• Analytical reasoning questions measure the ability to understand a structure of relationships and to draw logical conclusions about that structure. Please click here for more information.
• Logical reasoning questions assess the ability to analyze, critically evaluate, and complete arguments as they occur in ordinary language. Please click here for more information.

Multistate Professional Responsibility Exam (MPRE)

The purpose of the Multistate Professional Responsibility Exam (MPRE) is to measure examinees' knowledge and understanding of established standards related to the professional conduct of lawyers. The MPRE is not a test to determine an individual's personal ethical values. Lawyers serve in many capacities: for example, as judges, advocates, counselors, and in other roles. The law governing the conduct of lawyers in these roles is applied in disciplinary and bar admission procedures, and by courts in dealing with issues of appearance, representation, privilege, disqualification, and contempt or other censure, and in lawsuits seeking to establish liability for malpractice and other civil or criminal wrongs committed by a laywer while acting in a professional capacity.

For more information, please click here.

The National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT) is an independent credentialing organization that has tested healthcare professionals and instructors throughout the United States since 1989.

NCCT provides multiple qualifying paths for certification in the following roles:

• Medical Assistant – NCMA
• Medical Office Assistant – NCMOA
• ECG Technician – NCET
• Phlebotomy Technician – NCPT
• Tech in Surgery - Certified (NCCT), TS-C (NCCT)
• Insurance and Coding Specialist – NCICS
• Patient Care Technician – NCPCT
• Certified Postsecondary Instructor – CPI

Learn more at the NCCT website.

Scheduling Your NCCT Exam at HCC

• Your exam appointment must be scheduled a minimum of 48 hours prior to your preferred exam date and time.
• The testing fee is $35 (paid at the time of scheduling).
• Please bring a photo/signature ID (i.e. license or passport) the day of testing.

Click here to schedule your exam.

The Transportation System Preservation Technical Services Program (TSP2) was initiated as an efficient means to disseminate information to AASHTO member agencies for preserving their highway infrastructure, including pavement and bridges. Its principal mission is to serve as a clearinghouse with comprehensive and up-to-date information on efficient and effective preservation measures that enhance highway performance and extend useful life.

Click here to learn more.

The TSP2 exam is a one-hour paper/pencil exam. The proctoring fee is $30.

Day of Testing

Please bring a valid photo/signature ID (i.e. license or passport). You will not be allowed to test without a valid ID.  

Please Note: Your testing appointment must be scheduled with HCC a full 48 hours prior to your preferred date and time.   

Click here to schedule your exam appointment.

HCC students with an Individual Educational Plan (IEP) with the HCC Office for Students with Disabilities and Deaf Services (OSD/DS) are encouraged to take their exams in the Testing & Workforce Certification Center located in the Kittredge Center, room 204. To do so, please submit your Accommodation Agreement to your professors as soon as possible so they know you prefer to take your exams in the testing center rather than in the classroom.  

Schedule Your Testing Appointment

At least 48 hours prior to the test date and time determined by your professor, please contact OSDDS at 413.552.2417 or osd@hcc.edu to schedule your test appointment.

We encourage you to review your class syllabus with OSDDS by contacting OSDDS at 413.552.2417 or osd@hcc.edu, and schedule your test appointments for the entire semester. By doing so, you will have no concerns about having scheduled your test appointments on time.

Please note: All exams must be scheduled a minimum of 48 hours prior to your preferred dates and times. Please be sure to schedule your exam appointment so you can comfortably complete your exam prior to our test center closing times.

The Day of Testing

• Please bring your HCC ID or a photo/signature ID (such as your license or passport). Without proper identification, we do not know who you are and cannot admit you for testing.
• All your personal belongings will be placed in a secure locker.
• PLEASE NOTE: No cell phones, electronic devices of any kind, watches, food/drinks, etc. are allowed in the testing room. Only items allowed in your Accommodation Agreement and/or allowed by your professor can be brought into the testing room (such as your calculator, books, notes).
• All scratch paper a pencils/pens will be provided by the test center.

Pearson Vue Exams

To learn more about Pearson Vue exams, please click here.

To register for Pearson Vue exams, please click here.

Massachusetts Tests for Educator Licensure Exams (MTEL)

To register for MTEL, please click here. 

To learn more about becoming a licensed teacher in Massachusetts, please click here.

The MTEL customer service (Evaluation System) number is 866.565.4894 or 413.256.2892.

For additional information about taking your MTEL at the HCC Testing & Workforce Certification Center, please contact testing@hcc.edu.

PSI/Comira/CATS exams cover a broad spectrum of topics including fitness, culinary arts, journalism, healthcare, and government employment.PSI/Comira/CATS provides end-to-end testing services for licensing, certification, assessment, and educational testing programs.

Whether you are upgrading services, changing providers, moving from paper and pencil testing, or revising test objectives,PSI/Comira/CATS offers the knowledge, technology, and service to deliver credibility, stability, and success for your program and candidates.

Please click here for additional information.

Please click here for additional information on the exam you wish to take

The following exams are defaulted online exams. You must receive prior approval from PST to use test booklets:

• Law Enforcement Exam (administration time of 3 hours and 15 minutes)
• Fire Fighter Exam (administration time of 3 hours and 15 minutes)
• Fire Fighter and EMT exam (administration time of 5 hours and 15 minutes)

The following exam requires the use to test booklets only:

• Dispatcher Exam (administration time of 2 hours and 40 minutes)

For additional details, please contact:

Public Safety Testing
20818 44th Avenue West, Suite 160
Lynnwood, WA 98036
425.776.9615
Toll-Free: 1.866.HIRE.911 (1.866.447.3911)
Fax: 425.776.0165
Email: contact@publicsafetytesting.com

Main Office Hours: 
Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. to p.m. PDT

Please Note: All exam dates/times must be scheduled a full 48 hours prior to your preferred date/time. To schedule your test appointment, please click here.

The ServSafe exams include three individual two-hour long, multiple choice exams, each of which can lead to certification in a specific part of the food service industry. These three exams are:

1. Food Service Handling
2. Food Service Manager
3. Responsible Alcohol Service (Primary & Advanced)

how TO ORDER YOUR EXAM & SCHEDULE YOUR TEST APPOINTMENT

Step 1: Order your ServSafe Exam

Create your profile and purchase your exam on the ServSafe website. Please be sure to note your profile username/password, and print out the confirmation email you receive with your exam access code. You will need all this information to take your exam at the Test Center.

Step 2: Contact the HCC Test Center

Once you have purchased your exam from the ServSafe website and prior to scheduling your exam appointment at HCC, please contact the Test Center via email to confirm your exam date and time, and to provide your ServSafe exam access code.

Once you have completed steps 1 and 2, schedule your ServSafe exam appointment online. The testing fee is $45.

The TOEFL test is the most widely respected English-language test in the world, recognized by more than 9,000 colleges, universities, and agencies in more than 130 countries, including Australia, Canada, the U.K., and the United States. Wherever you want to study, the TOEFL test can help you get there.

Please click here for additional information and to register for your TOEFL exam.