What does ACAT stand for?

ACAT stands for Area Concentration Achievement Test.

How do we choose an ACAT?

Departments should select the ACAT version best fitting the content of their major and the time available for administration. For assistance with making your selection, please call us toll-free.

Should we use the paper or online version?

The paper and online versions of the ACAT are identical in structure and content. The scores can be combined into a single report.

How difficult is it to use the ACAT Online?

It typically takes less than a minute to set up a campus computer to administer the ACAT Online. A student receive an authentication code from the institution which gives them access to the correct test.

Can we see a sample before we make our decision?

Requests must be submitted on a Sample Request form which includes an agreement to provide appropriate security for the sample. You can download a printable form from our main website or request one by telephone. Once completed, you can send the request form to us by mail or fax. PACAT does not charge for samples. A sample may be retained for up to 90 days after which it must be returned to PACAT. Samples are provided for the sole purpose of departmental review and may not be used or distributed for use as study guides.

What are ACATs used for?

ACATs provide a measure of content knowledge and retention by students near or at the completion of their major field of study. Departments typically use the ACAT to meet the need for quantitative assessment data with a national comparison group in a way that also serves their need for information that can inform decision making. ACATs can be used for pre-post testing students to gauge the impact of the major on content knowledge and retention. Call us to discuss ways the ACAT can provide the information you need.

Who uses the ACAT?

The ACAT is in use at 4 year institutions nationwide. Participating departments cover a broad range, some graduating fewer than 5 majors a year and others graduating several hundred. Both public and private institutions are participants. A limited number of ACATs (agriculture, biology, general business, criminal justice) are being calibrated for use at 2 year institutions.

How do we order ACATs?

You can place an order using our online order form, by downloading an order form and sending it to us, or by calling us toll-free (866-680-2228). You must provide a valid payment method for your order to be processed. We accept institutional purchase orders and credit cards (VISA, MasterCard, and American Express). If this is your first order, you will need to provide information about which curriculum and options (if applicable) you have selected.

We don’t cover all the information in your content area components. Won’t our students do poorly?

Our tests assume that 70% of the students taking the test have been expected to learn 70% of the material on the test while studying for the major. Under ideal circumstances, the average graduating senior would be expected to know correct answers to approximately half of the questions on the test. This allows students from different programs at different institutions to score similarly while not necessarily mastering identical content.

Can we use different tests for different groups of students?

Departments wishing to use multiple versions of the ACAT will be given multiple institution codes. We must be notified in advance that a department is using this option. Call us for help setting up this option.

How long does it take to get our scores back?

ACATs are scored weekly. ACAT Online scoring will be conducted in the weekly cycle following receipt of notification of completion from the institution. Score reports can be sent by US Postal Service or by email at the request of the department.

What information will be contained in my score report?

A variety of information can be included in your report to meet your data needs. You will receive 2 reports following the receipt of examinee responses for each administration. You will also receive 2 reports in mid-June containing your cumulative results for the June - May year. The reports can be customized individually and sent either to the same individual or to two different individuals.

(Additional information is available from our main website www.collegeoutcomes.com.)