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.

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 of these areas

TABE Testing Hours

Click on your preferred testing location below for exam hours:

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

What Happens If I Do Not Meet My Program Requirements in One of the Three TABE Sections?

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

• Admitted without reserve to the program of your choice, meaning you can be admitted without conditions. If you do not meet the requirements of your program, it does not necessarily mean you will not be allowed to enter the program. You may be able to begin the program under certain conditions.
• Awarded a diploma or certificate of completion.

In most cases, you can enter a non-credit program if you agree to use Seminole State's support services. You may have to attend a set number of hours per week in the STAR Center.

The STAR Center staff:

• Uses materials from your course of study to help you gain 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 part of the exam. For example, if you pass English and reading but are not successful in math, 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 taken 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 online TABE study guide
• Complete a TABE Exemption Request for career programs that require acceptable TABE scores

Did you know?

Seminole State's Assessment and Testing Center administers a variety of tests, including state mandated entry and exit exams, specialty exams to earn college credits and professional certification and licensing tests.