Math Placement Test Information

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the purpose of the test?
To identify UC mathematics courses that best match your current math skill.

Q: Who has to take the test?
All students planning to enroll in an entry-level math course. This includes transfer students and students with AP credit.

Q: When do I take the test?
Most students will take the test during Student Orientation before registering for classes. You may call the orientation office at 556-2486 to schedule a test at an alternative time.

Q: When will I know the results?
The program displays your score at the end of the test. Qualifying scores for entry-level math courses at UC are listed online.

Q: What does the Math Placement Test cover?
Material traditionally covered in high school courses titled Algebra, Geometry, Trigonometry and Pre-Calculus. For more details, see Topics Covered. Also, try Sample Questions.

Q: How long is the test?
No more than 50 minutes. During that time you will see at most 25 questions. The program draws a conclusion more quickly for some people than others, so the actual time and number of questions varies from person to person.

Q: Can I use a calculator on the test? What else will I need?
You need only a pencil and paper. The use of calculators is not permitted.

Q: Is there a deadline for taking the test?
Yes. You must complete the test before registering for classes.

Q: Is there a charge for the test?
No.

Q: I didn't do as well as I expected on the test. Can I take it again?
Yes. Usually each student is given no more than two (2) test opportunities (with at least three weeks between tests), but if you feel the need to take it again, you can arrange an additional testing time by permission of the Head of the Math Dept. Your best score will be used.

Q: Can I use the test to "place out of" a math course at UC?
No.

Q: Must I take the test if I already have a placement result from another school?
Yes. Courses vary from institution to institution.

Topics Covered
Sample Questions
Qualifying Scores



About the Department Undergrad Studies Graduate Studies Research Faculty & Staff News & Events Alumni & Friends Course Information Description of Courses Schedule of Courses Course Web Sites Math Placement Test Electronic Reserves Statistical Consulting Mathematics Learning Center	Frequently Asked Questions Q: What is the purpose of the test? To identify UC mathematics courses that best match your current math skill. Q: Who has to take the test? All students planning to enroll in an entry-level math course. This includes transfer students and students with AP credit. Q: When do I take the test? Most students will take the test during Student Orientation before registering for classes. You may call the orientation office at 556-2486 to schedule a test at an alternative time. Q: When will I know the results? The program displays your score at the end of the test. Qualifying scores for entry-level math courses at UC are listed online. Q: What does the Math Placement Test cover? Material traditionally covered in high school courses titled Algebra, Geometry, Trigonometry and Pre-Calculus. For more details, see Topics Covered. Also, try Sample Questions. Q: How long is the test? No more than 50 minutes. During that time you will see at most 25 questions. The program draws a conclusion more quickly for some people than others, so the actual time and number of questions varies from person to person. Q: Can I use a calculator on the test? What else will I need? You need only a pencil and paper. The use of calculators is not permitted. Q: Is there a deadline for taking the test? Yes. You must complete the test before registering for classes. Q: Is there a charge for the test? No. Q: I didn't do as well as I expected on the test. Can I take it again? Yes. Usually each student is given no more than two (2) test opportunities (with at least three weeks between tests), but if you feel the need to take it again, you can arrange an additional testing time by permission of the Head of the Math Dept. Your best score will be used. Q: Can I use the test to "place out of" a math course at UC? No. Q: Must I take the test if I already have a placement result from another school? Yes. Courses vary from institution to institution. Topics Covered Sample Questions Qualifying Scores