Students Placement tests determine knowledge and skill level required for entry into a particular course. Credit is not awarded. Proficiency tests determine knowledge and skill level to be exempted from a certain course or requirement. In some cases, credit is awarded for passing a proficiency test. Successful performances on AP Exams, International Baccalaureate (IB) exams, and some CLEP exams also can qualify for credit.

Placement Tests

Math Placement Test determines readiness for MATH 104, 105, 108, 110, 111, 112, 113, 125. It is a computer-based test covering pre-algebra, algebra, college algebra, and trigonometry, though not all sections are required for all MATH courses. The test is administered regularly throughout the year and at specially scheduled times during orientations. Students who do not place into the class they need may study and retake the test or may seek help through the Mathematics Learning Center.

For full information, see the Math Placement Test web site

Proficiency Tests

* Available for Chinese, French, German, Latin, Russian, and Spanish
** Students who pass must still take a 1-credit course in IT ethics.

English 101 Proficiency Test is a three-hour, in-class essay on a topic that is administered regularly throughout the year and at specially scheduled times during orientation (registration required). Three credits are awarded with a passing grade. Instructions and more information

English 302 Proficiency Test requires a portfolio review and, pending successful review, an in-class exam. Three credits are awarded for successful portfolio evaluation and passage of the exam. Instructions and more information

Foreign Language Proficiency and Placement Tests The Department of Modern and Classical Languages offers language classes in Arabic, Chinese, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Latin, Russian and Spanish. The department administers tests to determine placement into the most appropriate courses. Students who have prior experience with a foreign language and plan to take further courses in that language at George Mason University need to take the test before registering.

Tests are free, do not require advance registration and are administered in the Modern and Classical Languages Lab in Aquia 336.

Fall 2010 schedule: MWF 1230 - 155pm

Determines readiness for 110, 115, 210, 250 or any 300 level in any of the languages offered. The test in Latin determines placement in the sequence 101, 102, 201, 202:

• Students who place into 110, 115 or 210 (or Latin 202) do not receive credit
• Students who place into 250 or 300 level in any of the languages receive a waiver of the foreign language requirement.
• Students who place out of 250 (and into the 300-level) are awarded 3 credits for 250.

For more information, contact the Foreign Language Lab

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