A Student’s Guide to the Regents’ Test

What Is the Regents’ Test?

The Regents’ Test, which is required by the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia, is a two-part timed test designed to measure minimum competency in the areas of reading and writing. It is in effect at every school in the Georgia system. The 60 minute reading portion of the test consists of 9 passages and 54 multiple choice questions; a score of 61 (on a scale of 1-99) is required to pass. The 60 minute essay portion consists of a 4-5 paragraph essay responding to one of the four topics provided; a score of 2 (on a scale of 1-3) is required to pass.

Can The Regents’ Test Be Exempted?

You can exempt the reading part of the test if you have a national SAT Critical Reading Score of at least 510 or ACT reading score of at least 23. You can exempt the writing part of the test if you have a national SAT Writing Score of at least 560 or earned at least a 24 on the ACT Englilsh/Writing or earned at least a 3 on AP English Language or Literature exams. You are also exempt if you have already earned a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college.

If I Don’t Exempt The Regents’ Test, When Do I Take It?

Beginning Fall 2008, ALL 1st semester freshmen and 1st semester transfer students are required to attempt the Regents’ Test. Those who do not attempt the test in their 1st semester could face penalties that include placement in Regents’ Test skills classes. This requirement applies to both full-time and part-time students.

When Is The Regents’ Test Offered?

The Regents’ Test is offered around the middle of the semester. You must register for the test either through BANWEB or the Testing Office. Although the test is offered several times over a 3-4 day period, you should register early in the semester to get the testing date/time which best fits your schedule.

How Much Does The Test Cost?

There is no charge to take the Regents’ Test. However, keep in mind that if you don’t attempt and pass the test your 1st semester and Regents’ Test skills classes are placed on your schedule, that could change your fees for the semester and will count toward the number of attempted hours covered by HOPE scholarship.

How Many Chances Do I Get To Pass The Regents’ Test?

Most students get two chances to pass the Regents’ Test before any Regents’ Test skills classes must be added to your schedule. Remember, though, that if you don’t show up your 1st semester to take the test, you’ve lost one of your chances.

Some students whose Regents’ Test results the first semester indicate that they are at “high risk” for failing a second time (for example, those whose reading score is below 50) will be required to participate in the skills course their second semester of attendance.

Once you’ve been required to enroll in the skills classes, you must take the skills course and test each semester of attendance until the test is passed.

What Happens When I Pass The Regents’ Test?

You have successfully completed your Regents’ Test requirement and don’t ever have to think about it again.

What Happens If I Take The Test But Don’t Pass?

If you pass once part, that part is passed forever. The next semester you attempt the part you haven’t passed. If you don’t pass either part, then both parts must be repeated the next semester you are enrolled.

At What Point Will I Be Required To Take Regents’ Skills Classes?

That depends on two factors: how many times you’ve had the chance to take the test (even if you didn’t show up) and what your scores are. If you’ve failed the test for the second time or have been enrolled in school two semesters and haven’t attempted/passed the test or your scores indicate you are “at risk,” remediation will be required. The two classes, RGTE 0199 for the essay and RGTR 0198 for the reading, are added to your academic schedule. These classes cost the same amount as any other 3 hour credit course you’re enrolled in.

How Do I Prepare For The Test?

Study aids are available on the Regents’ Test website (www.gsu.edu/rtp), your English 1101/1102 instructor is a valuable source of information and help, and the Writing Center is a wonderful resource for sample materials and additional assistance. Feel free to contact the Testing Office (678-839-6435) or email lst@westga.edu for additional details.

REMEMBER THIS: Your chances of passing the Regents’ Test are definitely better if you make yourself familiar with the test format and what is expected on each part.

You are responsible for adhering to the rules and regulations that stipulate when you must test and what the consequences are if you do not.