Math Placement Guide
One of the questions we get asked on a regular basis is "do I need to take a Math Placement Exam?" and the answer is always "it depends!" It's not always straightforward, but hopefully the guide below will help you to find out if you need to take the USM ALEKS placement test.
Do I need the math placement exam?
Some questions to consider:
Do you have any transfer, AP/ CLEP, or dual enrollment credit in math?
Are your SAT scores 570 or above / ACT Scores 22 or above?
What does your intended major require for math?
If your major requires a specific math course and you said "no" to questions 1 and 2, you likely will need to take the ALEKS Math Placement Assessment. Please note the majors below require CALCULUS, but other majors have specific math requirements as well. Double check your intended major math requirements by looking up your major in the course catalog on the USM website.
Additionally, students in the following majors require Calculus and this may mean that even if your SAT/ACT scores meet the minimums, you'll still need to take the exam to see if you can place into Precalculus (MAT 140) or Calculus A (MAT 152):
Biology
Chemistry/ Biochemistry
Computer Science
Economics (BA-Math Intensive track)
Engineering
Environmental Science
Mathematics
Physics
If you're not sure whether or not you need math placement, you can always contact the Advising Office to check before your Advising and Course Selection Meeting via email (usm.advising@maine.edu) or by calling one of the following numbers: (207) 780-4040 or (207) 780-4555