The Test of Adult Basic Education (TABE) is a computerized exam given to students going into the Nursing – Associate Degree program to determine academic readiness. Students applying for the 2027-2028 school year will take the TABE.

What Is Covered On The Test?

The following subtests make up the TABE test for Southwest Tech.

• Reading Comprehension – 39 questions. Provides reading scenarios in order to measure reading comprehension, identifying the main idea, finding meaning of words in context, passage comprehension, making logical inferences, etc.
• Mathematics – 40 questions (Part 1 and Part 2). The TABE math test measures your ability to use math in real-life situations, including a mix of basic calculations and problem-solving questions that require you to apply math skills similar to those used in healthcare training and the workplace.
• Language – 33 questions. Contains basic grammar, including parts of speech, important terms and their uses in grammar, commonly occurring grammatical errors, etc.

Scheduling an Appointment

For the fall and spring semesters, testing will be offered at 9:00 am and at 1:00 pm on the following dates:

• Friday, August 21^st
• Friday, September 11^th

To reserve a spot, Register through DaySmart Appointments.

General Rules

• A valid photo ID is required for testing.
• Food and drinks are not allowed in the testing center.
• Personal belongings are not allowed in testing rooms; locked bags are available.

TABE Frequently Asked Questions

• Do I have to take the TABE?

• Students applying for admission to Southwest Tech's Nursing (Associate Degree), Medical Laboratory Technician, Physical Therapist Assistant, Surgical Technician, and Radiography programs must take the TABE.

  Nursing (Associate Degree)

  If you have an ACT score of 20 or higher in last 4 years in Reading and Math, you do not need to take the TABE.

  Physical Therapist Assistant

  If you have an ACT score of 18 or higher in last 4 years in Reading and Math, you do not need to take the TABE.

• How can I prepare?

• There is no preparation needed to take the TABE.

• When will I find out what my test scores are?

• Students will receive their TABE results and a copy of their score report shortly after the completion of testing.

• What are the required scores for the TABE?

• Medical Laboratory Technician

  • Reading: 501+
  • Math: 496+
  
  

  Nursing (Associate Degree)

  • Reading: 597+
  • Math: 627+
  • Language: 608+
  
  

  Physical Therapist Assistant

  • Reading: 576+
  • Math: 537+
  • Language: 584+
  
  

  Radiography

  • Reading: 576+
  • Math: 537+
  • Language: 529+
  
  

  Surgical Technology

  • Reading: 501+
  • Math: 496+
  
  
• How long does the testing take?
• • Reading: up to 100 min (Part 1 is 50 minutes and Part 2 is 50 minutes.)
  • Math: up to 60 minutes
  • Language: up to 50 minutes
• Is there a charge for testing?
• There is no charge for this test.
• Do I need to bring anything for testing?
• A valid photo ID is required for testing.
• Can I retest on the TABE?
• Students will take a post-test upon completion of the Health Care Prep course.
• What if I need accommodations for testing?
• Prior to scheduling your exam, students with disabilities who require accommodations should contact Disability Services, Knox Learning Center, Room 314, 608-822-2631, TTY/TDD 608.822.2072, or email disabilityservices@swtc.edu.