Math Placement

Your first math course at the University of Utah is based on your test scores (ACT Math, SAT Math, ALEKS, AP or IB), concurrent enrollment or transfer math classes, and your chosen field of study.

 

How to place into a math class

• By ALEKS math placement test score
• By ACT math or SAT math score
• By AP or IB test score
• By concurrent/dual enrollment or transfer math class

If you are not happy with your placement by an external exam or transfer credit you may take an ALEKS math placement test to see if you are able to place into a higher class (up to Calculus I).  If you don't have a math placement by other methods you must take an ALEKS test for math placement.

 

Taking an ALEKS math placement test

You may take the ALEKS test with remote software proctoring at home or proctored in-person at the testing center on campus.   There is no cost to you for either option.  After you take an ALEKS test your score will be available for registration the following day.

You are encouraged to take the ALEKS at least two weeks before your scheduled orientation or registration date so that you will have time to work in the learning modules and retest if you don't reach your desired placement on the first try.  See the table below to determine your math placement by ALEKS score.

After your initial ALEKS exam, a series of learning modules will be open to you.  You must use these to review and practice before taking another exam. Before taking additional ALEKS exams you must wait at least 48 hours and spend 3-5 hours working in the learning modules.  The number of hours you are required to spend in the learning modules varies depending on how many times you have taken the ALEKS.  You may take the ALEKS exam up to 5 times.

How to take an ALEKS assessment:

1.  Decide whether you want to take the ALEKS at home (remote software proctored) or on the University of Utah campus (in person proctored).  Every time you take an ALEKS assessment you should use the same modality, so carefully consider your choice.  Reading the instructions provided at the links below for assessing at home and in the testing center may help you decide.

• Instructions for taking an ALEKS at home (remote software proctored)
• Instructions for taking an ALEKS in person at the testing center on the University of Utah campus

2.  Use the link on the appropriate page above to either schedule a time to take an ALEKS with the testing center or to take an ALEKS assessment at home.

 

Placement by ACT/SAT math score

If you are satisfied with your math placement via your ACT or SAT math score you do not need to take the ALEKS assessment.  To avoid delays in math placement and registration, please make sure your official scores have been sent to the University of Utah.  This will help you register for your preferred math course right away. 

Even if you have an ACT or SAT score, you are still welcome to take the ALEKS math placement exam to see if you are able to place into a higher math course.  You can place as high as Calculus I with an ALEKS score.

 

 

Math Placement by Test Score

 

Students should consult degree requirements when deciding which math course to enroll in and are encouraged to meet with their advisor if they have any questions about which course is best for their intended major.