What is the Ability to Benefit (ATB) Test?

The Ability to Benefit (ATB) test is the same computerized assessment test offered during the enrollment process.  The ATB test can only be taken by students who do not possess a high school diploma or its equivalent and wish to apply for financial aid.  

Please note the New US Department of Education ATB Rule Change below:

Effective July 1, 2012, the Federal Government implemented significant changes in the ATB rules related to the use of test results as part of the individual’s process for gaining access to federal Title IV financial aid programs (Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2012, Public Law 112-74). Ability to Benefit (ATB) regulation apply to students who have not graduated from high school or do not have a GED, and wish to use approved test results to become eligible for federal Title IV financial aid Programs and services.

·         Only students who were enrolled in a federal student aid eligible program On or Before June 30, 2012 may continue to use the test results COMPASS/ATB/ESL to become eligible for Federal Title IV Financial Aid Resources.

·         All new students enrolling July 1, 2012 or After can no longer use testing results to become Financial Aid eligible.  All new students must have a high school diploma or GED to become eligible for Federal Title IV Financial Aid Resources.

When students who qualify can take the ATB test?

During the spring 2013 term the ATB test will be offered:

Wednesday, February 27th and Wednesday, March 27th in SSC-104 at 1:30 pm.

You can book your appointment by calling us (510) 235-7800 ext. 4301 or by sending us an e-mail to: assessment@contracosta.edu

You will need to present a valid photo ID (e.g. Driver's License, High School ID, Passport, etc) and  your Contra Costa College ID number the day of the test.