The ACATs (Area Concentration Achievement Tests) are flexible content exit tests for student learning outcomes assessment in a major field of study.

ACATs are used by 2-year and 4-year higher education institutions to improve student learning and make data-driven decisions about their curriculum.

ACATs are available for either paper or computer administration backed by nearly 30 years experience providing quantitative data for quality assessment of learning outcomes.

The content areas appearing on the test are selected by individual departments to assess their specific teaching and learning goals.  Visit our How Does it Work (FAQ) page for more information.

ACATs are available to assess learning outcomes in agriculture, art, biology, business, communication, criminal justice, geology, history, literature in English, political science, psychology, and social work.

Multi-year reference groups are updated annually. Most ACATs are revised annually with major content revisions every 3-4 years. Transitions across revisions are gradual and typically do not require an extensive recalibration of the instrument.

Score reports are produced weekly and either mailed or sent directly by e-mail.  Data can be reported separately for multiple campuses or programs within a department to fit your reporting needs.  Sample reports are available on the test description pages for the individual disciplines.

Online administration presents the same content as paper versions and both can be used concurrently.  On request, graduating students can see their scores immediately on completion.  Departments can receive scores automatically by e-mail at the end of each test session.