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Placement Tests FAQ

How many times can I take the placement tests?

The math placement test can be taken an unlimited number of times, allowing three weeks between exams.

Why do I have to take placement tests?

The required testing segments serve several purposes:

  • Placement: The test results are used to determine your appropriate starting levels in mathematics courses.
  • Basic Skills: The test results are used to identify basic mathematics areas in which you need additional preparation for college-level course work.
  • Educational Planning and Academic Advising: The test results are a critical first step in your education plans, laying a strong foundation in  mathematics.

When and where can I take the placement tests?

You may complete your testing any time prior to your assigned deadline that is indicated on the email you received from the World Campus office.

When you are ready to take your tests, log on to the testing website in a quiet area where you will have uninterrupted access for at least three hours.

What do I need in order to take the tests?

You will need:

  • your Penn State ID number
  • scratch paper
  • pens and/or pencils
  • a four-function, scientific, or graphic calculator with which you are already familiar (if you plan to take the calculator version of the mathematics test)
  • one hour for each test (Note: You must complete all of the tests at one time; you cannot split the testing session into different parts.)
  • proper versions of Internet Explorer (5.5 or higher) or Firefox (1.0.4 or higher) with pop-up blockers disabled

Can anyone help me during the tests?

Assistance during the test is not allowed and will ultimately put you at a disadvantage by placing you into a course you are not prepared to take. You will also be in violation of Penn State's academic integrity policies.

When will I receive the results of the tests?

You will be notified of the results by email in three business days.

What if I don't take the placement tests by my deadline?

You’ll need to reschedule your tests by completing the Request for Online Placement Tests form and submitting it to the World Campus office by fax or postal mail.

What if I have already completed the tests and/or survey?

You do not need to complete the tests again if you have already taken them.

Will the placement test results allow me to "place out of" Penn State courses?

The placement test results are designed to help you start off “on the right foot” in mathematics. No actual course credit for any University graduation requirement will result from taking these tests.

What if I need special accommodations?

The Pennsylvania State University encourages qualified persons with disabilities to participate in its programs and activities. If you anticipate needing any type of accommodation, please visit our Students with Disabilities page.

What are the minimum computer requirements?

Any Mac or PC capable of running Internet Explorer 5.5 or higher, or Firefox 1.0.4 or higher, should be acceptable. Most browser/computer combinations are acceptable; however, you should not use Internet Explorer, Gecko, or Safari with a Mac.

Note: If you are using AOL to connect to the Internet, please do not use the AOL browser to take the online tests. You may connect to the Internet using AOL, but after connecting, please use one of the acceptable web browsers.

What if I have an emergency and need to stop taking the tests before I'm finished?

The tests should be taken back-to-back in one sitting. An emergency is defined as an unforeseen and unplanned event that prevents you from completing the tests in this period. Some examples of emergencies would be a sudden loss of power or Internet connection, a computer crash, or some dire event that required your immediate attention.

If you have an emergency while taking your tests and need to stop before you're finished, quit your browser and do not submit your answers at this time. (Simply closing the window may not have the desired effect. Be sure to actually quit or exit the program completely.) Your answers to all of the questions you have completed will be temporarily saved, and your timer will be stopped. You can log back in to the tests by returning to the Take the Tests page, and you should do so as soon as the emergency has been resolved. When the testing page reappears, click the RESUME button under the message that reads, “No, I have not finished taking my tests yet.”

If you have any questions or concerns about this, contact the First-Year Testing, Consulting, and Advising Program (FTCAP) office at 814-865-2578 (Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Eastern Time).