What is ATB Testing?


If you are interested in applying for federal financial aid, but you do not have a high school diploma, GED or equivalent, you may demonstrate your ability to benefit from a college education by taking the Ability to Benefit (ATB) Test.

Note: De Anza's ATB testing service is not the same as De Anza's assessment for placement service.

ATB Eligibility

Students without a high school diploma, GED or equivalent are eligible to take the Ability to Benefit Test (ATB) test.

Students must be approved to take the test by the De Anza College Financial Aid Office:

Upon approval, students can request to schedule an ATB testing appointment with us:

ATB Test Format & Retest Policy

Take a moment to review the ATB test format, rules and content.

Note: De Anza's ATB testing service is not the same as De Anza's assessment for placement service.

English & Math ATB

ACCUPLACER Test           Passing Score 

Reading                             233 

Writing                              235 

Arithmetic                         230

This untimed, computerized test is composed of three (3) sections: Sentence Skills, Reading Comprehension and Arithmetic.

English & Math ATB Retest Policy:

  • Students who do not receive qualifying scores on their ATB test are eligible for one (1) Accuplacer or CELSA retest only.

    • Only sections not passed need to be retested.

  • Students must wait minimum of two (2) weeks before attempting the ATB test for the second time.

ESL ATB

Passing Score: 97

This 45-minute timed, paper and pencil test is composed of one (1) language section. There is no math section.

ESL ATB Retest Policy:

  • Students who do not receive qualifying scores on their ATB test are eligible for one (1) CELSA or Accuplacer retest only.

  • Students must wait minimum of two (2) weeks before attempting the ATB test for the second time.

ATB Prep & Study Guides

Student must provide a valid government issued photo ID at the time of testing. 

Take a moment to review the study materials.

English & Math ATB 

College Board's Accuplacer Study Guide

ESL ATB

For review and practice, students choose their own review books or online web sites for tutorials.

ATB Results

English & Math ATB

Upon test completion, you will receive your test results.

ESL ATB

Test results will take up to 2-3 weeks to process.

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