Placement Testing Frequently Asked Questions
- Why am I unable to access the mathematics Unified Placement Test Web site ?
- I am getting an error message with code 5xx when I log in for the test using my ASURITE ID.
- Do I need to take the ALEKS Calculus Placement Exam if I do well in the AP calculus?
- If I score higher than 75 in the Unified Placement Test and I intend to major in math, science or engineering, which courses do I need to take?
- How can I check my Unified Placement Test score?
- How many times can I take the Unified Placement Test?
- What is Intermediate Algebra and why do I have to take it through a community college?
- Do the practice exam and refresher workshops really help?
Why am I unable to access the mathematics Unified Placement Test Web site?
When you are unable to access secure encrypted connection (HTTPS links) for the mathematics Unified Placement Test Web site, you may need to upgrade to the latest version of your Internet browser. The website supports Netscape version 4.79 and above and Internet Explorer version 6 and above.
If you are unable to access this website from a public place such as a library, the error may occur due to a firewall program running which blocks the port number 8443 to the secure encrypted connection. In this case, please try to access the Web site from a different location.
I am getting an error message with code 5xx when I log in for the test using my ASURITE user ID.
This error occurs mainly due to client/host IP address mismatch or having an expired cookie. This probably means the IP address of your machine's active Internet connection has changed since you logged in using ASU's Web authentication. You are getting this message as a security precaution to prevent others from accessing your account with your credentials.
The solution for this is as follows. Assuming you use Windows OS and Internet Explorer for Web browsing:
- Go to Tools->Internet Options
- General tab->Clear history and clear temporary Internet files.
- Restart browser.
- Go to URL: http://math.asu.edu/fym/placement.html
- Click on link: click here take the placement test
Please close all Internet browser windows, reopen the Internet browser and log in again. If this error immediately returns, please contact your technical support personnel. (Firewall, proxy server or similar issue may be at cause.)
If this error recurs after a period of time, perform the above solution again. This problem is a result of your network or machine causing your active IP address to change.
Do I need to take the ALEKS Calculus Placement Exam if I do well in the AP Calculus?
The credits received for the Advanced Placement (AP) calculus tests are as follows:
Students who do not have an AP test score on file with the University must complete the ALEKS Calculus Placement Exam prior to orientation. Students who have AP test scores on file with the University for calculus do not need to take the ALEKS Calculus Placement Exam.
If I score higher than 75 in the Unified Placement Test and I intend to major in math, science or engineering, which courses do I need to take?
If you score higher than 75 in the Unified Placement Test you can enroll in MAT 170. However, students majoring in math, science or engineering need to take MAT 270: Calculus with Analytic Geometry I. To enroll for this course it is necessary to take the ALEKS Calculus Placement Exam.
How can I check my Unified Placement Test score?
After taking the Unified Placement Test, your score is displayed. Please be sure to print this page and keep it in your records, as this is the only presentation of your score. The only other method of obtaining your test score after it is displayed is through your advisor.
How many times can I take the Unified Placement Test?
You can take the online placement test a maximum of two times.
What is Intermediate Algebra and why do I have to take it through a community college?
Intermediate Algebra allows students to strengthen their math skills and prepare for the math courses taught at ASU. ASU teaches math courses at the level of college algebra or above, so the university has a partnership with the Maricopa Community Colleges to offer the course on ASU's campuses. The partnership also coordinates financial aid, billing and registration into a single process. Upon successful completion of Intermediate Algebra with a grade of "C" (2.00) or better, students will be permitted to enroll in the appropriate math course at ASU for their degree program. Note: Additional fees will be assessed on your ASU billing statement to cover the cost of Intermediate Algebra.
Do the practice exam and refresher workshops really help?
Yes! The practice exam and refresher workshops are specifically designed to help students review mathematical concepts and prepare for the exam. Many students find their scores increase substantially as a result.
For additional information or if you have any questions please call the undergraduate mathematics office at 480-965-7195, or send an e-mail to placement@fym.la.asu.edu.
