Testing

Fulfill placement testing requirements for new Heartland students. 

All new students must complete a literacy placement test. The math placement test is optional, with a default placement of MATH 095/097. 

1. Submit a HCC application. 
2. Determine which placement tests you need for your classes or chosen program.
3. Check for any test waivers you can provide.
4. Make an appointment. Tests can be taken at any HCC location in Lincoln, Normal or Pontiac. 

Heartland uses ACCUPLACER for literacy and ALEKS for math placement testing.

High school students can take the required placement tests for dual credit courses at Heartland in Lincoln.

• Determine which HCC courses will be offered at your high school and which ones you'd like to take.  
• Submit any PSAT/SAT/ACT scores to see if you are waived from testing. 
• Heartland uses ACCUPLACER® for literacy placement tests and ALEKS for math tests. These are done on a computer and help determine your dual-credit course eligibility. 

Schedule an appointment.

Take an exam for your online or hybrid course, or work with your instructor for a make-up exam.

• Instructors should submit a request for testing before staff can adminster the exam. 
• Ensure the Testing Center has available hours prior to the instructor's deadline.
• You should know your course and instructor's name to sign-in for testing. 

Spring 2025 Testing Center Hours
Monday - Thursday: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM
*appointments required to ensure room availability

Schedule Course Exam

Prior to enrolling in free GED classes at Heartland, students must complete required pre-testing placement for the Adult Education program. 

1. Complete an Online Enrollment Form
2. Schedule a pre-test appointment by calling 217-735-1731 or email Lincoln.Center@heartland.edu

High School Equivalency (HSE) exams are adminstered at Heartland Community College through Pearson VUE Testing.  These exams are offered at all three HCC location in Lincoln, Normal and Pontiac. 

To register, create an account and choose your test site location.

Register for the HSE (GED) Exam

Schedule a non-Heartland proctored exam at the Lincoln Testing Center. 

• Our Testing Center is available to community members who wish to have a test proctored, including those in open learning and distance learning (online) programs. 
• Additional fees may apply if a test is from a non-Heartland institution. 
• Appointments are required.