Frequently Asked Questions About the HEIghten® Outcomes Assessment Suite
General
What is the HEIghten® Outcomes Assessment Suite?
The HEIghten Outcomes Assessment Suite is a collection of assessments that measure specific general education skills such as critical thinking, quantitative literacy and written communication. Institutions use these assessments to demonstrate program effectiveness for accreditation and funding purposes. You can use it to demonstrate that you have developed the critical skills necessary for success in academia and beyond.
What should I do if I have questions about the HEIghten Outcomes Assessment Suite?
For more information about the HEIghten Outcomes Assessment Suite or if you have questions regarding testing, contact your institution.
Preparing for the Test
Where can I find test preparation materials?
The HEIghten Outcomes Assessment Suite is intended to measure academic skills developed in general education courses. The test does not measure specific subject knowledge. A quick review of the Critical Thinking, Quantitative Literacy or Written Communication test content description and sample questions will help you get familiar with test content and the types of questions you can expect.
Taking the Test
I need testing accommodations. What do I do?
If you have a disability or health-related needs that require testing accommodations, contact your institution to discuss your options and schedule an on-campus testing session. (Off-campus testing is not available.) Please note that some requests, such as those for alternative formats, require extra time for processing.
Do I need to show any identification on test day?
If you are testing off-campus using remote proctoring, yes, the proctor will ask you to provide a valid and acceptable ID document. If you are testing on campus, the administrator at your institution will advise you on the identification required.
Off-Campus Testing
Can I test off-campus using a remote proctoring service?
If you are eligible to test off campus, you will be notified by your institution.
How will I know if I am eligible to test off-campus using remote proctoring?
Your institution will decide if they want you to take the test. If you are identified as eligible to test off-campus, you will be sent an email with instructions for how to register.
Do I have to pay for my test session?
If you have been instructed to pay by your institution, you will be asked for your preferred method of payment (credit card or PayPal®) when you schedule your remote session.
What should I know about the ID requirements for off-campus testing?
Valid and acceptable identification with your name, signature and photograph is required to begin your test. ID requirements are strictly enforced. View a list of acceptable ID documents.
What other security measures are taken before testing begins with the remote proctor?
After reviewing your identification, the proctor will ask you to pan your webcam around the room so that he/she can verify that you are alone. The proctor will also ask you to use a reflective device to show them the area around your computer so that they can verify that no unauthorized testing aids are being used. After the proctor has confirmed that your testing area is secure, you may be asked to complete an authentication quiz. Once testing begins, the proctor will continue to monitor you using the webcam to ensure that test security is maintained.
What if I need to reschedule my test?
If you need to change your exam date or time, you must do so at least 24 hours before your testing appointment or all associated fees will be forfeited. You may reschedule or cancel your appointment online. When prompted, you will need to enter the authorization code provided in your remote appointment confirmation email. Please review the rescheduling and cancellation policies and procedures.