Placement & Proficiency Tests
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
| Test | Determines Readiness for |
| Math Placement | MATH 105, 106, 108, 110, 111, 113, 125 |
| Foreign Language Placement | 102, 201, 202 or higher in any foreign language |
Proficiency Tests
| Course | Requirement Waived | Credit Awarded | English 101 | Yes: written (3 credits) | Yes | English 302 | Yes: written (3 credits) | Yes | Foreign Language 201* | No | Yes | Foreign Language 202* | Yes: Foreign Language | Yes | History 120 | Offered by College Board SAT II | 530 score required | Information Technology 103 | Partially: IT Proficiency** | Yes | Oral Communication | Yes: Oral | No |
* 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 are available in Chinese, French, German, Latin, Russian, and Spanish. All are multiple-choice tests covering listening comprehension and reading. Tests do not require advance registration and are administered in Thompson 233 from Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Determines readiness for 102, 105, 201, and 202 in any of the languages offered:
- Students who place into 202 are awarded three credits for 201.
- Students who place out of 202 are awarded six credits for 201 and 202.
- Students who place into 101, 102 or 201 do not receive credit.
For more information, contact the Foreign Language Lab
Math Placement Test determines readiness for MATH 105, 106, 108, 110, 111, 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 Literacy Center.
For full information, see the Math Placement Test web site
Information Technology Proficiency Test is a multiple-choice test administered during the first week of class. Students who pass are awarded three credits, but no grade, and must complete a one-credit course in ethics in information technology to fulfill the IT proficiency requirement. More information
Oral Communication Exemption Requirements include a multiple-choice exam, and, pending successful performance, an oral presentation. Students who pass have demonstrated proficiency in oral communication and are not required to take further courses in communication. For more information, contact the Department of Communication at 703-993-1090.