Complete placement tests

Overview

Some colleges require placement tests before fall registration: math, foreign language, English composition, or major-specific. Usually administered online in June-August.

Common Placement Tests

Math Placement

• Most common placement test
• Determines initial math course (remedial vs. calculus-ready)
• Based on past math performance and test results
• Usually online, timed

Foreign Language Placement

• If continuing or starting a language
• Determines level (intro vs. intermediate)
• May exempt you from requirement if advanced

English/Composition Placement

• Some colleges still use ACT writing or SAT Essay
• Others use online placement
• Determines composition course level

Major-Specific

• Pre-med: Chemistry placement
• Engineering: Physics placement
• Biology: Lab placement
• Business: Accounting/econ placement

When You're Notified

• After enrollment deposit
• Often via email
• Check student portal

Preparation Tips

• Review for 1-2 days before taking
• Khan Academy, Paul's Online Math Notes for math
• Don't cram; brief review only
• Take it when fresh and well-rested
• Take only once (you'll live with the result)

Test Environment

• Home computer with reliable internet
• Quiet space, no distractions
• Webcam if required
• Time allotment varies (30 min - 2 hours)

Calculator Use

• Depends on subject and policy
• Check instructions carefully
• Don't use prohibited tools

After the Test

• Results usually available within 48 hours
• Log in to view
• Determines your orientation session or course registration

Retakes

• Most colleges allow 1 retake
• Wait a few days between attempts
• Some require payment for retake
• Check specific policy

If You Place in Low

• Don't panic
• Work through required courses
• Use summer for self-study
• Retake if possible after improvement

If You Place in High

• Consider skipping ahead
• Take advanced course with interest
• Check if you can take equivalent AP credit
• Talk to advisor about course selection

AP Credit Considerations

• AP credit may place you out of some courses
• Policy varies by school
• Check your school's AP policy
• Sometimes better to take placement despite AP credit

International Baccalaureate Credit

• IB credit varies more than AP
• Check school's IB policy
• Some schools generous, others selective

Advisor Consultation

• Before registering, consult academic advisor
• Discuss major intentions
• Balance requirements and electives
• Ask about placement implications

Freshman Seminar

• Required at many colleges for first-semester students
• Small class, skill development
• Often separate from placement tests
• Part of registration

Pre-College Math Review

If math placement concerns you:

• Khan Academy Algebra review
• Paul's Online Math Notes
• Princeton Review prep books
• YouTube channels (PatrickJMT, Professor Leonard)

Pre-College Writing Review

• Read widely in your intended major
• Practice formal essay writing
• Use Purdue OWL for grammar review
• Read good nonfiction