Math Placement Assessment

Mathematics provides the foundation for many of the science, business, and professional courses you will take during your undergraduate college years.

You’ll also need a math or statistics course to fulfill your UCORE quantitative reasoning requirement. Taking it sooner rather than later will keep you on track academically and can improve your problem-solving skills in other coursework across the University.

The purpose of the Math Placement Assessment is to determine, based on your mathematical background and current mathematical ability, which WSU math courses are appropriate for you.

Remember, placement is about being successful, not skipping courses. If the assessment places you below the level that you want, consider how a review or lower-level course could boost your skills and support your overall academic achievement.

Take the assessment

Resources

MPA Score Chart
Math/Stats Course Map

Course descriptions

Math classes
Statistics classes

Begin your studies right

First of all—relax. It’s an assessment, not a test. Your score is the best way to find your fit within the WSU undergraduate curriculum and ensures your first math course matches your current understanding of mathematics.

What is ALEKS?

WSU uses an adaptive learning system called ALEKS to assess where you are in your mathematical understanding so that you are more likely to be successful in your math education at WSU.

Who needs to take the math placement assessment?

In general, all WSU incoming undergraduate students are required to take the WSU Math Placement Assessment to determine their mathematics readiness level.

  • If you do not take the assessment and you do not qualify for an exception, you will not be able to register for any math course at WSU until you complete the assessment.

Exceptions: Eligible transfer credits or college-level exams may exempt you from taking the assessment. Read the exceptions information carefully and speak with your admission or academic advisor well in advance of orientation.

Be prepared

Review best practices and check your technology before you begin.

Your results

ALEKS results are updated in MyWSU every business day. In general, your student account will be updated the morning of the business day after you take your assessment. At that time, you will be able to register for your first math class.

If you are interested in retaking the assessment, learn about the reassessment requirements.