What #ENGRCATS Need to Know About Math Placement

Engineers use math (and science) as the foundation of everything they do – and #ENGRCats are no different. Before you even begin your coursework on campus, you can take steps to prepare for a successful math journey.

• If you have one, submit your ACT/SAT to UA. Even though standardized testing is optional, you can use an ACT or SAT score to help determine your appropriate initial math placement. (See the score chart here.) With or without a test score, you’ll still be encouraged to take UA’s math placement assessment.

• Learn about the ALEKS PPL. The ALEKS is UA’s math placement exam.  Read all about the exam and what to expect here. Although our 4-year degree plans begin with Calculus I, it is far more important to begin your academic career in the correct math class; you may need, or want, to start in another course to increase strength and confidence in math. We recommend taking the ALEKS PPL as soon it appears in your Next Steps Center. This allows time to review and re-test, if desired.

• Think ahead for AP or Dual Enrollment. If you’re currently enrolled in AP or dual enrollment coursework senior year, you may also utilize these scores and/or classes to gain credit toward your degree (and to help with determining your math placement, too). To see the full list of AP exam scores and affiliated UA courses, visit this site. You’ll have the opportunity to submit these scores prior to your New Student Orientation. (And, you should plan to tell your advisor about any expected AP or dual enrollment credit during your 1:1 virtual advising appointment at New Student Orientation, too.)

• Brush up on some resources. The goal of the ALEKS exam is to make sure you’re being matched into the right course for you based on your most current preparation in math. This does not mean, however, that you can’t practice or prepare before taking the exam! You can review the study guide on the Math website prior to the launch of the exam, or check out some resources put together by the College of Engineering here.