ALEKS Math Placement

Red question mark "Do I need to take a math placement assessment?"

Yes, most new students (including transfer students) need to take an ALEKS Math Placement assessment. ALEKS (Assessment and Learning in Knowledge Spaces Links to an external site.) is a tool IU Columbus uses to assess your current math level so you can be placed in the math course that is the best fit for you. Your ALEKS Math Placement has three parts:

1. Initial Assessment 2. Learning Modules 3. Reassessment

Your initial ALEKS assessment will help you discover which math skills you have the opportunity to improve on. After your initial assessment, you will have access to online learning modules that will help you refresh your skills. After you've completed a learning module, you'll be able to reassess and aim for a higher score. You may take the ALEKS up to five times. 

Learn more about ALEKS Math Placement and schedule your initial assessment. Links to an external site.

Megaphone The importance of the math placement assessment

Your placement assessment helps your academic advisor Links to an external site. determine the right math class for you to start with so that you spend your time (and tuition money) wisely. Be sure to complete your placement assessment prior to working with your academic advisor to register for classes so that your advisor will be able to review your scores and make sure you register for the right math course.

It is really important that you complete your test with the right mindset.  While it is not necessary for you to study in advance for your placement assessment, ensure you have enough time and give it your best effort.  This might afford you the opportunity to take fewer courses, which equals less time spent and more money saved. 

College is an investment in your future. Take the time to do your placement assessment well.

Still not convinced you need to take the math placement assessment seriously?

Below are some common placement exam scenarios that incoming college students face every year.  Browse through each scenario to discover what students have done and what that could mean for you.

Student Experiences with Placement Tests

Student 1

"I did not take the math assessment prior to meeting with my advisor to register."

Outcome

"Without a math score, my advisor couldn't determine which math course I was eligible for and I couldn't register without a placement assessment score.  Now I still need to take the exam and classes are filling up quickly!"

Student 2

"I used the ALEKS study modules and retook the assessment."

 

Outcome

"I placed into exactly the math course I need for my business major -- that was time well spent!"

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Icons-red_warning.png Don't forget

You must either take a placement exam or receive a waiver before you meet with your academic advisor. You may be eligible for a waiver if:

  •  You have taken an AP Calculus exam with a score of 3 or higher.
  •  You have taken a CLEP College Algebra, Calculus, College Mathematics, or Precalculus exam with a score of 50 or higher.
  •  You have taken Math 11000 with a grade of C or higher at an accredited institution within the last two years.
  • You have taken a Cambridge International exam with a score of E or higher.

If you meet any of these criteria, follow this link to request your ALEKS waiver. Links to an external site.

Speech bubbles Questions?

If you have questions about your ALEKS Math Placement Exam, you can contact IU Columbus University College Links to an external site. by call or text at 812.348.7200 or by email at coucol@iu.edu. 

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