UM Math Placement Testing FAQ
Following are Frequently Asked Questions about the University of Michigan Mathematics Placement Testing.
Questions:Questions with Answers:
- Why do I need to take a placement
test?
Your placement test score will be combined with your admissions data (e.g., SAT Math, high school GPA) to generate an overall math placement recommendation. This allows the University to place you in the math course in which you will be most successful.
- What math is tested on the placement
test?
The placement test consists of questions about basic algebra and precalculus skills. This is a subset of the math knowledge that we expect you to have from your high school math classes; in your math class(es) at the University of Michigan you will do mathematics that is much different from that on the placement test.
- What levels of placement does
the test indicate?
The placement test evaluates only your precalculus skills and knowledge and therefore only indicates whether you have the background to succeed in calculus.
- Who must take the placement
test?
All newly admitted students to the University must take the mathematics placement test, including students with transfer credit for a college mathematics course and students who have completed an AP calculus course.
- Why do I have to take the test if I
have taken calculus (even AP calculus) or have transfer college
credit for a math course?
The placement test is still important. It gives a benchmark score that your advisor will use when evaluating your previous experience and recommended placement.
- Will I get my placement as soon as I finish
the on-line test?
You will immediately get confirmation that you have successfully completed the test, but you will not see your actual placement recommendation. This is because your overall placement is generated by looking at more than just your result on the placement test. Your registration advisor will have your mathematics course placement recommendation, and you will be able to discuss it with your advisor and a mathematics advisor before registering.
- When will I decide which math course I
should take?
This decision will be made in conference with your academic advisor during orientation. At that time you will be able to discuss your placement and talk with a mathematics advisor to be sure that you are registered for the correct course.
- What information do I need to take
the test?
You need your University of Michigan uniqname and ID number. See the next question for where to find these.
- How do I get my uniqname and UM
ID number?
Your UM ID number is in your letter of admission with your One Time Identifier that you use to get your uniqname. If you cannot find your ID number or instructions on how to get your uniqname, please contact the Office of New Student Programs (734-764-6413).
- What equipment do I need to take the
test?
You need some clean scratch paper to work on and a pencil or pen. In particular, note that calculators are not permitted on the mathematics placement test. You may not use other resources (e.g., books or the Internet). You will need a modern web browser (see the placement front page) to take the test.
- What if I use a calculator or some other
resource?
This is actually a bad idea. The test is constructed so that someone who spends time looking up answers or working with their calculator won't do as well as someone who knows the material. In addition, placing into a course for which you are not prepared will only hurt you -- and your GPA.
- Why can't I use a calculator on the
test?
The placement test is designed to measure your facility with basic mathematical skills that are needed for different math courses the department offers. Because of this, using a calculator will generally not help you: you'll score better by knowing the material and working it all out by hand.
- You mean I won't be allowed to use
calculators in my math classes at U-M?!
No, we don't mean that. Calculators are extensively used in U-M mathematics courses. However, the placement test is designed to measure your fluency with basic mathematical skills.
- Do I need to study for the
test?
Generally speaking, no. If it's been a year since you've had math you will probably be better off reviewing, but if you have just completed a math course this shouldn't be necessary. See also the question about what math is included on the placement test.
- When can I take the
test?
You must take the test before coming to campus for orientation. You can take the test anytime after May 26, 2006.
- What is the time limit on the
test?
You must complete the test in fifty minutes or less.
- What if something goes wrong while I'm
taking the test?
In general this won't happen. If your browser crashes or you have a similar problem, immediately go to retake the test: it will let you resume where you left off. If a technical problem prevents you from completing the placement test, see below for instructions about contacting the Mathematics Department.
- Is this a real test that you actually
use for placement?
Yes. The results from your placement test will be used in conjunction with other data to generate your math placement.
- Whom do I contact with questions
about transfer credit or registration?
For this and similar questions, contact the Office of New Student Programs at 734-764-6413. - Whom do I contact with other questions
about the placement test?
If you have technical problems with the math placement test, contact the Instructional Technology Consultant at the Math Department, by e-mailing <math-itc(at)umich(dot)edu>. For all other questions about the placement test and summer orientation, contact the Office of New Student Programs at 734-764-6413, or <onsp(at)umich(dot)edu>. - Where can I get descriptions of
mathematics courses?
See the math department's web site for a complete list of math courses offered.
- What's the web address of the
test?
See the instructions page.
Last modified: Thu Jun 8 08:45:07 EDT 2006
Comments to:math-itc(at)umich(dot)edu
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