(Two parts: Algebra Diagnostic test-45 minutes and Calculus Readiness exam-30 minutes)
Enrolling in the right math course is critical for your academic success. Proper placement ensures that you have the proper mathematics background so you can earn high grades in your math courses. The results will determine if it is best for you to take college algebra, pre-calculus, or calculus.
Students majoring in Business, Engineering, Health Care, Biology, Chemistry, Communication, Economics, Physics or Psychology, or who anticipate majoring in a scientific field will be advised into a math course based upon their ACT or SAT scores or by the score on the online diagnostic test scores. Students who took the ACT or SAT tests after Fall, 2004 should use the table below to determine the best math course to take.
ACT/SAT Placement Table
ACT |
SAT |
Course Advisement |
0-19 |
0-470 |
Take the algebra diagnostic test for placement. |
20-22 |
480-530 |
Enroll in Math 104 College Algebra |
23-25 |
540-580 |
Enroll in Math 105 (Elementary Functions for Calculus) Business Majors enroll in Math 112 |
26+ |
590+ |
Enroll in Math 135 Calculus I |
Note: *If your score on the ACT or SAT score is more than two years old or if you feel that your score doesn’t place you in the correct math course, you should take the 45 minute Algebra Diagnostic Test.
Algebra Diagnostic Placement Table
If you score |
On The |
You Should Do This: |
0-11 |
Algebra Diagnostic |
Take Math 090 to refresh your skills - Contact LAS Extended Studies to register for the course. Math 090 is a review of pre-college algebra designed to help you prepare for Math 104, College Algebra |
12-16 |
Algebra Diagnostic |
Take Math 104 College Algebra |
17 or above |
Algebra Diagnostic |
Take Math 112 if you are a business major |
20 or above |
Algebra Diagnostic |
Take the Calculus Readiness exam to see if you can bypass Math 104 and 105 and enroll in Math 135 (Calculus I) If not, enroll in Math 105, Pre Calculus |
Calculus Readiness Exam Placement Table
If you score |
on the |
you should do this: |
0-9 |
Calculus Readiness exam | Take Math 105, Precalculus |
10 or above |
Calculus Readiness exam | Take Math 135, Calculus I |
Note: *In order for students to take the 30 minute Calculus Readiness exam, they must take the Algebra Diagnostic and earn a score of 20 or above.
Test Review Guides:
A list of topics that are covered on the Algebra Diagnostic test can be found here: Review Topics (Note: If you want to brush up on your math skills before you take the diagnostic tests, you can find some useful information HERE and HERE.
Taking the Test:
New Freshmen students take the test through new student orientation. All other students or new freshmen students who wish to retake the test, may do so through the Student Success Center Center. It is administered by appointment only (Mondays 9:00 am and Tuesdays & Thursdays at 1:00 pm), through the Career Center, Main Hall 201 or (719) 262-3340.
The Math Placement Test should be taken before the end of the first week of classes.
Cost: $8.50
Questions?: may be emailed to: mathtest@uccs.edu
last updated 02/29/08