Ways to improve the validity of assessment of college students are discussed. Validity problems often have occurred because the purpose of assessment was not clear. Traditionally, college students have been tested for admission and placement. However, the results of these tests have been used for other purposes, such as comparing institutions. Whatever the intended purpose of testing, the findings from assessment are often used for something else. College students are commonly assessed for accountability, certification, or institutional self study. Assessment is an indicator of quality and is also used as an intervention for educational change. Individual instructional assessment (IIA) is proposed as an assessment model which incorporates assessment with the institution's teaching mission. IIA uses assessment to recognize and extend individual student accomplishment. To implement the IIA system, commitment from administrators and faculty would be necessary. In addition, the measurement community would need to provide assistance, including tests, technological support, training, and recommended procedures. (GDC)