Mathematics Placement Information
Towson University requires incoming students to take the ALEKS math assessment. We use a combination of previously completed math course work and the assessment results to place you in a course that ensures your best chance of success.
What's the ALEKS for?
Students arrive at TU with a wide range of math experience. The ALEKS is an assessment to help ensure you start in a class where you’re prepared and able to succeed. All incoming students must take the ALEKS.
The placement assessment does not affect your admission to the university, but completing
it early will help you register for the right courses without delay. It's also imperative
that you take the assessment honestly so the results reflect what you’re truly ready for.
Newly admitted students should take the assessment soon after returning their enrollment
contracts. To get started, first watch the video and then follow the steps below.
1
Watch the Video
Your first step in preparing to take the ALEKS assessment is to watch the two-minute introductory video at the top of this page. The video will help you understand why taking the ALEKS is important to your success here at Towson University.
2
Determine Requirements / Exemptions
Most incoming freshmen are required to take the test. There are, however, some exemptions.
How do I know if I am exempt?
Students with college-level mathematics course credit may be exempt from taking the mathematics placement test if:
- course work satisfies the mathematics requirements for your chosen major and Core 3 of Towson University's Core Curriculum
- your major requires only MATH 231 or MATH 237 and the course credit for prior work satisfies Core 3 of Towson University's Core Curriculum
- prior course work includes credit for MATH 115, MATH 119, MATH 211 or MATH 273
Even if exempt you may choose to take the assessment at no risk. If you switch majors to one that has a higher mathematics requirement, you may be required to take ALEKS later.
3
Set Aside Time and Prepare
You can take the test as soon you’ve paid your enrollment deposit. The ALEKS generally takes about 90 minutes.
The purpose of the test is to assess YOUR abilities. You may not consult any outside resources: notes, textbooks, formula cheat sheets, Internet sites, etc.
While there is no need to practice for the ALEKS, you can prepare by:
- getting enough sleep the day before the test
- reviewing the list of preferred browsers on the official ALEKS website
- gathering scratch paper and pencil (remember, no calculator or cheat sheets are allowed)
- request accommodations (if needed) — If you are a student with a documented disability you must register with Accessibility and Disability Services (ADS) and submit appropriate documentation to determine your eligibility. Students are encouraged to complete the ADS registration process a minimum of two weeks before they plan to take the placement test. Contact ADS at 410-704-2638 for further information.
4
Log in to ALEKS and Complete the Test
You will have four hours to complete the test. It generally takes most students 90 minutes. The test is open response, not multiple choice. Remember, it is critical that you take the test alone and with no outside assistance.
Here's how to begin:
- go to the login page and use your Towson University NetID as your user login and use the password you have chosen for your campus e-mail
- you will take a very brief survey and sit through a short tutorial on using the ALEKS interface.
- then your assessment will begin
If you have any technical problems, please contact ALEKS's troubleshooting page, or contact ALEKS's online support or call their support line at 1-800-258-2374.
5
Review and Understand Your Score
When you complete the test, you will immediately see your score, as well as your learning “pie,” the learning module constructed for you.
ALEKS constructs a learning module based on your performance. The learning module provides you the opportunity to review and master certain topics prior to enrolling in your first math course or retaking ALEKS.
Your score and your high-school mathematics coursework determine what mathematics courses you are eligible to register for; but your major determines what courses you should take. There is no simple way to translate your ALEKS score into a math placement without knowing your “whole situation.”
6
Optional Retake
You can take the test again if you wish. You must wait at least 48 hours after completing the first attempt and spend at least 5 hours working in the learning module.
An improved ALEKS score would place you at most one course higher than the original placement and may require special department approval.
7
See which Math Class You’re In
The mathematics requirements of your major determine what course(s) you must ultimately take. You may need to complete prerequisite coursework first.
Our Mathematics Pathways (PDF) list the common mathematics courses required by various TU majors and their math prerequisites.
Your high school math coursework and your ALEKS score determine the math course in the pathway for your major. You are then placed in that course, to help you complete your math requirement as quickly as possible.
If you believe that your first math course is too low (or too high), please contact the Mathematics Department at math AT_TOWSON.