University of Southern Indiana >> Academic Skills - Placement Testing: Mathematics

Placement Testing - Mathematics

The Department of Mathematics has mandatory placement for all entry-level mathematics courses. Placement into an appropriate course is determined by a mathematics placement test; therefore it is extremely important that one’s best effort be given in taking this test.

Some students may be exempt from taking the math placement test, based on the following:

Math SAT score of at least 640 or Math ACT score of at least 29
High school GPA of at least a 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale) and Math SAT score of least 600 or Math ACT score of at least 26
Student transferring College Algebra (MATH 111) or higher.

A student exempt from placement testing may select the math course, with the assistance of an advisor, which best meets the requirements of his or her program of study.

ACCUPLACER, a computerized assessment system, is used to administer the math placement tests. An advantage is that ACCUPLACER is untimed, allowing students to work at their own pace. No calculators are permitted on the math section, but scratch paper and pencils are provided. ACCUPLACER provides an adaptive testing environment. This means that if students answer correctly, the next question will be at the same level or more difficult. If students answer incorrectly, the next question will be at the same level or easier.

Math placement recommendations will vary based on a student’s background. A strong background in mathematics may result in placement in MATH 230 (Calculus I) or MATH 115 (Pre-Calculus). Students prepared for College Algebra place into MATH 111. MATH 100 (Intermediate Algebra) and GENS 097 (Algebra Review), prepare students for College Algebra.

Questions regarding Math Placement can be directed to Kathy Rodgers at 812 465-1689 or krodgers@usi.edu or Nancy Myers in Academic Skills at 812 464-1743 or NMyers@usi.edu

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