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Mathematics Placement Test

PLACEMENT TESTING IS LOCATED IN THE FOLLOWING LOCATIONS:
COLUMBUS CAMPUS: Madison Hall, Room 202
DELAWARE CAMPUS: Moeller Hall, Room 157
DUBLIN REGIONAL LEARNING CENTER: Room 311

Appointments are required. Click here to schedule your placement testing appointment.

Virtual Placement Testing appointments are available on Fridays between 10:00 am and 2:30 pm for students who live outside of central Ohio (45 minutes from the Columbus or Delaware campuses).  Students with extenuating circumstances may also be given consideration. 

Approval is required. Click here to submit your request.

ESL PLACEMENT TESTING DEADLINE FOR SUMMER SEMESTER 2023 IS MONDAY, MAY 15, 2023.
We recommend that testing be completed by May 1, 2023.

Depending on your major, you may need to take a few college math classes – or quite a few! The Mathematics Placement Test will assess your math abilities to ensure that you receive any remedial assistance you may need, and place you in the right course your first semester at Columbus State.

Timing, Cost & Testing Rules:

  • You may take the Mathematics Placement test up to five times at no cost.
  • The test is not timed and usually takes students about 2 hours to complete.
  • You are required to complete this test on a computer with a functioning webcam and microphone. 

How to Take Your Test

  • Access the ALEKS Math Placement Test by logging into CougarWeb anywhere that is quiet and free of distractions from any device with an internet access. Cell phones are not recommended, but may be used.
  • If you have not established your Cougar Web Account, click on “What’s My Username” link and follow the prompts. You will need your Cougar ID number or Social Security Code to establish this account.
  • Once logged in, go to CougarWeb for Students and click the link for ALEKS under Placement Testing.
  • You will follow several prompts when logging into ALEKS for the first time, including the download of the required LockDown Browser and the completion of a short survey and a tutorial.
  • The short survey will ask you a few questions about your most recent math class experience. Use your best memory and judgment if you are uncertain of an answer.
  • The tutorial will walk you through how to navigate through the test, use of tools presented to you, and how to answer questions.

Student Guide to Math Placement Test

  • The assessment is untimed and presents up to 30 questions.
  • ALEKS PPL provides an embedded calculator that is available when it is allowed for use. Do not use any other calculator.  
  • Do Not Use the “I DON’T KNOW” button. It is better to attempt to answer a question than to use this feature.
  • IMPORTANT:  Do not use notes, visit other websites, or receive help from other people when taking the unproctored assessment.  If you do, ALEKS PPL will not create a Prep & Learning Module that is appropriate for your needs and instead will create one that is too difficult for you.   
  • You have the option to remediate and retake the math placement test up to 4 more times at no cost to you. Many students benefit from taking advantage of this reassessment process! 
  • You must spend at least 5 hours improving your math skills by working in your individualized ALEKS Prep & Learning Module. Follow the Continue My Path button in the upper left of your ALEKS dashboard to access the lessons and knowledge checks.
  • After you spend 5 hours working in your Prep & Learning Module, your second ALEKS PPL placement test will be unlocked.
 
  • Repeat step 3 to complete your retest. 

 

 

Department Contact

Academics Department

(614) 287-0000

academics@cscc.edu