Some Penn State English, mathematics, and chemistry courses have prerequisites. If you have not completed the prerequisite course at Penn State (or an equivalent course at another school), you must take the appropriate placement exam. These are used for future scheduling, so you should take them before you begin classes.
Please note: Starting spring 2012, World Campus students no longer need to take the English or chemistry placement exams.
Taking the Math Placement Test
Placement tests are administered online. Visit Penn State's First-Year Testing, Consulting, and Advising Program (FTCAP) website for more information.
Before you can take any of the exams, you need to complete the Request for Online Placement Tests form. Submit the form to the World Campus office by fax, email attachement, or postal mail.
Penn State does not charge for placement tests. You will be notified by e-mail of the results in three business days.
Mathematics Placement Test
This test measures your knowledge of various algebra and trigonometry topics.
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Chemistry Placement Test
Effective spring 2012, students no longer need to complete the chemistry placement test.
English Placement
All Penn State World Campus undergraduate students must complete ENGL 015 (Rhetoric and Composition).
Effective spring 2012, students no longer need to complete the English placement test. Entering students are placed in an English course based on their demonstrated writing skill as measured by the SAT-Writing exam or fulfillment of the respective course prerequisite at another institution. Students who do not have SAT-W scores need to consult with an academic adviser.
Most students demonstrate adequate preparation and are placed into ENGL 015. Students whose SAT-W scores indicate weakness in their preparation may need to schedule ENGL 004 (Basic Writing Skills) before scheduling ENGL 015.
About the Placement Tests/FAQ
Find out more about placement exams and hardware requirements for taking them.
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