The Test of Adult Basic Education (TABE)

Divided into three sections, the TABE is used to assess students' English, math and reading skills. The TABE is a placement exam. If you do not do well on part of the TABE, it does not mean you cannot enter a specific program. It simply tells Seminole State what your strengths and weaknesses are and allows us to help you complete your program successfully.

Depending on your course of study, the TABE helps Seminole State decide:

• If you can enter a non-credit program without reserve.
• The program level at which you should be placed (beginner, intermediate or advanced).
• If you need to use Seminole State's support services at the STAR Center.
• If you need to temporarily delay beginning a program while you acquire skills in one or more areas.

TABE Testing Hours

Click on your preferred testing location below for exam hours:

• Sanford/Lake Mary Campus
• Altamonte Springs Campus
• Oviedo Campus
• Heathrow Campus

TABE Fees

• TABE Survey Form (non-Seminole State students): $25*
• Complete Test Battery (non-Seminole State students): $40*
• TABE Retakes (non-Seminole State students): $25*

* Prices are subject to change.

Why is the TABE Important?

You must meet your program's required scores in all three sections of the TABE by the time you complete your course work in order to earn a diploma or degree. Additionally, by taking the TABE, you meet state entry requirements for:

• Non-college-credit career programs
• Adult basic education programs
• The GED preparation program
• Adult high school

If you are entering a career program that requires acceptable TABE scores and you meet certain other criteria, you can request exemption by completing a TABE Exemption Request form.

What if I Fail to Meet My Program's Requirements in One or More TABE Sections?

Florida law requires that you pass all three sections of the TABE to be:

• Admitted without reserve (admitted without conditions) to the program of your choice. If you do not meet your program's requirements, you may still be able to begin the program under certain conditions.
• Awarded a diploma or certificate of completion.

In most cases, you can still enter a non-credit program if you agree to use Seminole State's support services. To improve your knowledge and skills, you may be required to spend a certain number of hours each week in the College's STAR Center.

The STAR Center staff:

• Uses materials from your course of study to help you improve your English, math and reading skills.
• Helps you succeed in your course of study.
• Prepares you to pass the TABE.

If you are unsuccessful in one part of the TABE, you are only required to retake that section of the exam. For example, if you pass English and reading, you only have to retake the math portion.

There are exceptions to this rule. Check with your Seminole State counselor or the Assessment and Testing Center for more information.

What If I Haven't Taken the TABE?

If you haven't completed the TABE, you can take it at Seminole State. Contact the Assessment and Testing Center at 407.708.2020 for more information.

How Can I Get More Information About the TABE?

For more information about the TABE:

• Speak with your Seminole State counselor.
• Call the Assessment and Testing Center at 407.708.2020.
• Review the Florida Department of Education's TABE preparation guide.

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