Placement
The mathematics placement test is used to determine the level at which you should begin taking mathematics classes at IU Northwest. Please see the Majors and Mathematics Requirement chart to determine which mathematics course you need to take depending on your intended major.
All admitted students are reviewed using the individual SAT/ACT mathematics scores to assign a placement level.
MATH SAT SCORE | OR | MATH ACT SCORE | PLACEMENT LEVEL |
≥570 |
| ≥24 | MA 105 |
≥540 |
| ≥22 | MA 104 |
≥510 |
| ≥21 | MA 103 |
≥470 |
| ≥18 | MA 102 |
Otherwise | MA 101 | ||
Any student who believes they were placed in a level not reflective of their current skill is encouraged to sign-up for an online placement test.
This test is used to determine your math skills and the results are used to place you into the appropriate course for your skill level.
Adult learners and GED holders will be encouraged to take the placement test but can also accept a placement at level MA101 (MATH-M15).
STEP (Seminar Towards Effective Placement) is a FREE online review of advanced arithmetic. Admitted students in a risk group (low SAT or similar) are encouraged to complete the STEP program before taking the placement test.
For more information about MATH-M 15, click the MATH-M 15 link.
Students will receive an error message if they try to register for a math class above their Placement level. Mathematics Program Coordinator Kristie Gilmore (HH 447, (210)981-5691) assists students who need atypical permissions to register into a mathematics course.
You do not need to study for it as you might for another type of exam. However, we recommend to click on the following links and print and complete the appropriate practice test(s): practice test MA102, practice test MA103, practice test MA104, or practice test MA105.
