University Placement Program

Mathematics and English Placement Test Information

Mathematics

Test Information

The COMPASS® math placement exam is required for all incoming students, unless you have previously earned college-level credit. Please note that you may use your own calculator (TI 83 and lower) or the one provided on the computer.

Texts and practice tests suggested for review:

• ACT Compass Mathematics Placement
• S.O.S. Mathematics CyberExam - Intermediate Algebra
• Purplemath Forums
• PinkMonkey.com Algebra Study Guide
• Math Homework Help
• An intermediate algebra college text or any advanced algebra high school text.

Scoring

Your score will reflect the extent to which you understand basic operations of whole numbers, decimals, percents, and fractions, positive and negative numbers, ratio and proportion, graphing and distance, exponents and radicals, factoring and substituting values into algebraic expressions, logarithms, functions, and linear equations. An advisor will assist you in interpreting your score and determining math placement.

Placement Levels

MATH 090: Beginning Algebra
MATH 099: Intermediate Algebra
100 Level Math
200 Level Math

For incoming freshmen

You can register for a placement exam date when you register for FOCUS.

For incoming transfer and currently enrolled students

You may take the math placement exam if you are requesting a change in your math or chemistry placement. If you have any questions or need further assistance, please call the Records and Advising Office (773) 298-3012.

English

Test Description

Any student requesting a change in English placement may take the COMPASS e-Write™ Test. Using a computer, students write an essay on a provided topic. Students are graded on content, focus, organization, style, and mechanical conventions.

Practice tests suggested for review:

• ACT Compass Writing Skills Placement

Scoring

Your score will reflect the extent to which the topic is addressed, the consistency and clarity with which the main idea(s) or point of view is identified and maintained, the unity and coherence achieved through the logical sequence of ideas, the effectiveness of language use to enhance the writer's purpose, and the control of mechanics in grammar, spelling, and punctuation.

Fall 2009 Testing Schedule

CLEP and All Placement Tests
Math/English/Foreign Language

All tests will be held in Room L-210

Contact Michelle Keller from Records and Advising at (773) 298-3012 to schedule a placement test.