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Appraisal Institute Education



Diagnostic Test for New Advanced Education Courses
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)


Prior to registering for your first advanced education course, you are required to pass a - diagnostic test that will assess your skill level in Excel and ensure that you will gain the most out of your learning experience. Below are answers to frequently asked questions.

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Question:    What will I be tested on?

Answer:    You will be asked to demonstrate your skill level in Excel by creating and working with spreadsheets.


Question:    When do I take the diagnostic test?

Answer:    You must pass the diagnostic test before you are permitted to register for one of the new advanced education courses. You may take the test at any time. However, keep in mind that you must receive your “pass” grade confirmation letter at least 14 days before the live classroom session begins. This allows enough time for the test to be graded. For specific deadline dates and access to the test, see the link that is included on each of the new course description pages.


Question:    How long will it take me to complete the test?

Answer:    If you have above average skills working with Excel or other spreadsheet software programs, it won’t take long: 15 minutes. Timing depends on your skill level.


Question:    Where do I take the test?

Answer:    The test is taken online at home. You’ll be asked to open a spreadsheet workbook and complete various spreadsheet tasks. Then you’ll submit the test via e-mail.


Question:    How long does it take to find out the results?

Answer:    From the day it is submitted, the grader has 4 business days to grade the test. You’ll receive an e-mail confirming whether you passed or failed the test within 7 business days (after you’ve taken the test).


Question:    If I fail the test, may I retake it?

Answer:    Yes. You may retake the test as often as necessary. You’ll receive feedback to help you succeed on the retake. If you are not successful after 3 tries, the Appraisal Institute offers e-mail counseling to help you pass the test.


Question:    How much does it cost to take the test?

Answer:    The test is free.


Question:    Why do I have to take a test?

Answer:    To successfully complete the courses in the advanced education curriculum, it is important that participants have basic spreadsheet skills.


Question:    If I challenge ALL of the new advanced education courses, do I need to take the diagnostic test?

Answer:    No.


Question:    Is there anything I can do to prepare for the test?

Answer:    Be familiar with the use of absolute "$" and relative cell references in formulas before completing the test.