About the Math Placement Test:  The math placement test covers Algebra I, Algebra II, Advanced Algebra and Trigonometry. The test is multiple choice and is administered on a computer; it is un-timed. No previous computer experience is necessary. Once a question is answered, you cannot go back to change its answer. A scientific calculator is available on the computer for your use.  You may NOT bring your own calculator when taking the test at UNCW.

Placement Test Information for New Freshmen, Transfer Students, Visiting Students, and Continuing Students.

New Freshmen
All new UNCW freshmen must take the math placement test during Orientation (even those who already have credit for some college math courses). The results of the test and your intended major will be used to determine the most appropriate mathematics course for you to take. Your advisor will help you make the right choice.  UNCW will not make you take the highest level math course based on your test results.  Therefore, you should do your best to achieve your highest placement so you will have better career options available.

If you do not take MAT 111 (or a higher math course) during your first two years at UNCW, we strongly recommend you retake the math placement test.  See Placement Test Information for Continuing Students who have taken the math placement test.

Students who place into MAT 161:  Students who take MAT 161 as their first math course at UNCW, and who have received no AP credit, no transfer credit, and no prior math credit at UNCW, will be granted supplemental credit.  You will receive 3 credit hours for MAT 115 if you pass MAT 161 with a "C" (2.00) or better.  This credit may be used to fulfill basic studies requirements, however, it will not be a factor when computing your grade point average. 

Transfer Students
Testing is offered on the first day of Transfer Orientation for students who need to take the math placement test. This will depend on the mathematics course(s) required by your major and the type of mathematics transfer credit you have. You should check the UNCW Course Descriptions, (scroll down to the Mathematics Section) to determine if your transfer credit meets the course pre-requisites.  You should also read the following information carefully to determine whether or not you need to take the math placement test.

Check your Evaluation of Transfer Credit Sheet.  If you have NOT received credit for UNCW's equivalent of MAT 111, 112, 115, 151, or 161 and your major is: All majors in the School of Business, Biology/Marine Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Elementary Education (with math/science or psychology concentration), Environmental Studies, Geology, Mathematics, Medical Technology, Middle Grades Education (with math/science or psychology concentration), Nursing, Parks and Recreation Management, Physics, or Psychology, you MUST take the math placement test.

If you HAVE credit for (or previously earned a "D" in) UNCW's equivalent of MAT 111, 112, 115, 151, or 161, you do not have to take the math placement test.  However, you MUST provide proof (a report card or copy of your transcript) of the equivalent course and grade you received.

If you would like to review your algebra and/or trigonometry before taking the math placement test, click the links on the Navigation column at the top of the page.

Visiting Students
Visiting Students must take the math placement test in order to enroll in MAT 111 or higher.  Placement scores from other institutions cannot be accepted.  If you would like to review your algebra and/or trigonometry before taking the math placement test, click the links on the Navigation column at the top of the page.

Continuing Students
Continuing students who HAVE taken the Math Placement Test:  If you would like to retake the test, you are advised to review your algebra and/or trigonometry.  Click the links on the Navigation column at the top of the page to print the packets.

Continuing students who have NEVER taken the Math Placement Test:  If you need MAT 111 or MAT 151 for your major or as a pre-requisite for another course, you must take the Math Placement Test.  Study the Algebra Review Problems.  If you need MAT 161 for your major, you should study the Algebra and Trigonometry Review Problems.

It is highly recommended that ALL continuing students review their math before taking the test.  The Math Lab website has algebra and trigonometry problems to help you with your review.  The answers are provided to help you evaluate your progress.  Your goal should be to get at least 85-90% of the answers correct in algebra (for MAT 111 or 151) and trigonometry (for MAT 161).

The links provided on this page are intended to acquaint the users of this site with information, services, and organizations at UNCW, on-line, and in the local community.  UNCW is not responsible for the content or maintenance of linked sites, and cannot vouch for the accuracy of information or material contained thereon.

If you have other questions regarding mathematics placement testing at UNCW, contact Edwina Johnson Slane, 910-962-3217.