GIS Certificate: Excel Assessment Test

Overview

The purpose of the Excel assessment test is to insure that students accepted to the GIS certificate program have the basic skills necessary to "hit the ground running" without the need for remedial work. The test may include questions on how to create or interpret formulas, totals, medians, modes, minimum/maximum, count, averages, percentages, ratios, or charts (bar graph, pie, etc.). The test consists of 10 questions, each worth one point, and the minimum passing score is a 7 out of 10. The test may be repeated if necessary.

Instructions

1. Prepare

If you have not used Excel in a work or school setting, it is recommended that you prepare for the test by working with a tutor, taking a class, or working independently through a user's manual until you feel comfortable with the skills mentioned above. Even if you are familiar with the program, you might want to brush up on your skills if it has been a while since you have used it.

2. Sign up

E-mail uwturban@u.washington.edu to sign up for the test. After arranging a time when you can complete and return the test within one day, you will receive back an e-mail with the password so that you can follow step 3 below.

3. Download the password-protected test and instructions

Once you have received the password via e-mail, download the version of the test and instructions specified in the e-mail:

Version A	Test	Instructions
Version B	Test	Instructions
Version C	Test	Instructions
Version D	Test	Instructions

4. Take the test

You are welcome to utilize the "help" function within Excel or consult a manual while taking the test. However, please note that because the purpose of the test is to gauge whether your computer and application skills prepare you to start the GIS certificate program, it is in your best interest to complete the test without the help of other people.

5. Submit the test

Return the test via e-mail attachment to uwturban@u.washington.edu by the deadline indicated in your instruction e-mail. You will hear back with the results within two business days.

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