Welcome to the American Honors global community. As you prepare to come to campus, we've put together a guide to assist you through the visa process, placement preparation, and connecting with your support network--including your honors advisor and peer mentor!
What is a placement test and why do I need to take one?
Leading universities and colleges across the United States use placement test to ensure students are enrolled at the appropriate level. These tests encompass both Math and English and will enable students to enroll in the correct courses. Incoming American Honors students need to take a placement tests in order to register for their courses.
Do I need to take a placement test before I register for courses?
Yes. However, prior to taking the test, you will meet with your Honors Advisors to discuss your courses, creating a plan of action.
Do I need it in order to be admitted into the American Honors Program?
No. Placements tests have no effect on being admitted into the program.
How do I sign up for the test?
You will be able to take the test on campus once you arrive on campus and through the Testing Center. Your Honors Advisor will provide specific location information during your first advising meeting.
How can I prepare for a placement test?
We recommend that you start familiarizing yourself with the test by looking at the sample practice questions below. Remember, this is a test to measure your current skills, and the best way to prepare is by understanding what you are being asked to do.
- Pierce College and Community Colleges of Spokane Students
- Compass Placement Test
- Duration: The compass test is untimed
- Format: The test will cover writing, reading, mathematics, and writing sample
- For sample questions please click on the following:
- Compass Placement Test
- Ivy Tech Community College, Mercer County Community College, and Union County Community College Students
- ACCUPLACER
- Duration: the ACCUPLACER test is untimed
- Format: the tests will cover writing, reading, mathematics, and a writing sample
- For sample questions, please follow this link here
- ACCUPLACER
- Navarro College Students
- Texas Success Initiative (TSI)
- Duration: the TSO is untimed
- Format: the rest will cover writing, reading, and mathematics
- For sample questions, please follow this link here
- Texas Success Initiative (TSI)
What do I need to submit and/or purchase prior to arriving to the United States?
- Housing application submitted to Community College (dormitory or homestay)
- Arrival details submitted for airport pick up to Community College
- Confirm your visa approval with American Honors
- Purchase medical and injury insurance from CC
What documents will I be required to bring with me to the United States?
- Form I-20
- Passport with affixed F-1 Student visa
- Letter of Admission from your Community College and American Honors
- SEVIS fee payment receipt
- Financial Statement (to show to immigration officials upon arrival in the U.S.)
- High school and/or college transcript
- U.S. cash for arrival (Recommended amount of $350)
- Traveler’s checks and/or credit card (Visa or MasterCard)
- Photocopy of your passport and and I-20
- Copy of any prescription medicine you are currently taking
- Copy of your immunization records
What Should I be prepared to prove at my visa interview?
- Transcripts and diplomas from previous institutions attended
- Scores from standardized tests required by the CC such as the TOEFL, IELTS, iTEP, etc.
- Financial evidence that shows you or your parents who are sponsoring you have sufficient funds to cover your tuition and living expenses during the period of your intended study
Below are a few tips to consider for your visa interview:
- Remain calm and present yourself with confidence
- Make eye contact with the interviewer
- Speak in full sentences and repeat the question in your answer, for example:
Answer: In America, I will begin my studies at Navarro College which is located in Texas.
- If you forget a word in English, do not worry. Continue to discuss the question as best as you can.
- please see the following documents which provide you a list of sample visa questions and visa interview definitions
Who will be my primary contacts of support while enrolled in American Honors?
- American Honors Admissions Officer
- Your Admissions Officer will assist you with your application and enrollment process until you arrive on campus. This can include questions about the following:
- academic documentation
- admissions decision
- visa process next steps
- arrival and accommodation confirmation
- Your Admissions Officer will assist you with your application and enrollment process until you arrive on campus. This can include questions about the following:
- Honors Advisor
- Your honors advisor will assist you in scheduling your classes and complete an academic success plan with you for your two years with American Honors. Your advisor also provides support for any specific questions and/or concerns you may have with your current academics and transfer pathway while in American Honors
- Community College International Office
- The international office on campus provides full support for all international students. For example, this office can assist you with the following:
- Tuition payments
- Visa questions
- Housing
- Mental health concerns
- Your CC online account
- Travel assistance
- The international office on campus provides full support for all international students. For example, this office can assist you with the following:
- Peer Mentor
- All international students will be paired with current AH students that have been in the program for at least one term.
Jump to:
1) Placement Prep 2) Pre-Arrival Checklist 3) Visa Information 4) Student Support