Guidelines for Taking the Math Placement Exam

  1. You may take the ALEKS Math Placement Assessment on a personal computer, laptop, or tablet with the current system requirements.
  2. Only scratch paper and pencils are allowed.
    • No books, notes, or other resources should be used.
    • No calculators may be used as ALEKS will provide a calculator if one is needed.
    • Special Exception: students whose second language is English may use dictionaries to look up unfamiliar words or terms.
    • Cheating on the math placement only hurts you by allowing you to enroll in a course that is too difficult. Plus, honesty is part of the Student Conduct Code.
  3. No calculators are allowed.
    • ALEKS will provide an on-screen calculator if one is needed.
  4. Take the test in a quiet place free of distractions (at home or in a library).
  5. Take your time.
    • The ALEKS Math Placement Assessment is not a timed test. You can take as long as you need to answer the questions within a twenty-four-hour period. Most students take around sixty to ninety minutes to complete the assessment.
  6. Dictionaries are OK for students whose second language is English.
    • Students may look up unfamiliar words or terms with a dictionary if needed.
  7. Review the ALEKS tutorial before you begin the assessment.
    • It’s important to understand how to use the assessment tool before beginning the test. If you don’t know how to input an answer and need help, select the Help button.
  8. Have your Duck ID and password available to access the exam.
  9. Download and install the Respondus Lock-down Browser on the computer you will be using for the ALEKS test.