Assessment Center

MCE and ICE Assessment

Writing Comprehension Exam
  • for Students attempting to exit Writing Sequence

  • partnership between the Assessment Center, Developmental Writing and ESOL faculty.

  • MCE is the Minimum Competency Exam. It is a 2-hour, 200-300 word essay.

  • ICE is the Intermediate Competency Exam. It is a 2-hour, 300-600 word essay.

These assessments are exit exams for developmental writing.

When can I take these tests? How long will it take?
  • These writing exams are administered for 4 days within a semester:
    • Fall - Monday and Tuesday in mid-November

    • Fall - Monday and Tuesday during the first week in December

    • Spring - Monday and Tuesday in mid-April

    • Spring - Monday and Tuesday during the last week in April or the first week in May

  • must bring a Blue Book when signing up for an appointment

Where do I take it? What do I need to bring? What should I expect on the test day?
  • El Centro Gym is reserved to administer the exams

  • setup of 25 tables and 50 chairs

  • paper-pencil test

  • you will sign in and collect your Blue Book

  • must bring a valid picture ID

  • no electronic devices are allowed - they are taken at the door

  • you will sign out and indicate time of departure

The emphasis of these exams is to aid you in acquiring vital writing skills.