General information about the PTP

Placement in entry level mathematics courses (usually Math 102, 103, 104, 105, 107, 146, or 165) at UND is determined by previous college level math credits, ACT Math scores, or the result of a placement test given on campus. Previous college level credits might be the result of Advanced Placement tests (AP), the College Level Examination Program (CLEP), or math credits transferred to UND from another accredited college. If you have no previous college level credits, the Math Department will use your ACT Math score to determine an initial placement. If you didn't take the ACT or if you think you should be placed in a different course, you may take one of the placement tests offered on campus. The placement tests we use are designed by the Mathematical Association of America.

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How come I have to take a placement test?

The primary reason for using placement tests is to make sure that you have the prerequisite skills needed to succeed in the mathematics courses you plan to enroll in. While having the necessary prerequisite skills does not guarantee success in a course, lacking those skills almost always leads to failure.

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How do you decide which test I have to take?

If you do not plan to take Calculus (Math 165), then you only need to take the Algebra test.

If you do plan to take Calculus, then we will give you the Trigonometry and Elementary Functions test first. If we cannot place you based on that score, you will also be asked to take the Algebra test.

Follow this link for placement information based on your ACT Math score.

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When should I take a placement test?

As early as possible. If you are going to take a math class in your first semester, you will have to take a placement test before you register.

If you are going to wait a semester or two before taking your first math class, it's still a good idea to try and take a placement test during your first semester at UND. There are a couple of reasons why this is a good idea. First, entry level math classes tend to be in high demand. Taking a placement test early means that you can register for math classes over the phone during early registration when you are more likely to be able to get into the section you want. Second, the results of the test might indicate that you should begin in a class other than the one you eventually want to take. In many cases, taking a placement test early means that you will have time to complete the prerequisites for the course you want and still be able to graduate on time.

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I've already taken a math class, can I take a placement test to skip the next class?

No. The PTP is used for initial placement only. Once you have taken a mathematics course, your performance in class is used to determine whether or not you are eligible for subsequent courses.

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I didn't know I was going to take Calculus when I took the placement test. Can I take the second placement test now?

If you change your mind about needing or wanting to take Calculus, we'll allow you to take the second test if you meet both of the following requirements.

1. You are eligible to enroll in, or have already completed, Math 103 or Math 104.

2. You have not previously been enrolled in Math 107.

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Do I have to register for the PTP?

Yes. Call the Mathematics Department at (701)777-2881 to register for the PTP the week before the tests are given so that we can determine what test you should take and make sure we have enough of each test available. You should have your NAID number handy when you call. You will be given information about what to bring with you to the test, the exact time it is being given, and what room the test is being given in.

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When are the placement tests given?

The Getting Started Program gives the tests each summer. You should contact them to find out exactly when and where the tests are being given and to register for it if you want to take the test during the summer months.

The Mathematics Department administers placement tests once a week during the fall and spring semesters. In addition, we administer them the day before classes start each fall and spring. You can phone us at (701)777-2881 to find out when and where the tests are being given and to register. Please remember that you must register for the test before you take it.

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Do I get to use my calculator?

No. The tests are designed to be taken without the aid of a calculator of any kind.

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How long will the test take?

Depending on which test you are given, either 40 minutes or 45 minutes.

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When will I get the results?

That depends on how many people take the tests when you do. It usually takes between 15 minutes and four hours for us to score the tests and have results available.

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Do I get credit for the classes I place out of?

No. The PTP is designed only to determine an appropriate initial placement. To earn credit for a class you must take the class or, in some cases, score sufficiently high on a CLEP or AP test (there are restrictions on when you can take either of these tests).

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Can I take the test more than once?

Yes, but please be aware that there are some limitations. Whether you take the test at the Getting Started Program over the summer or at the Mathematics Department in the fall or spring, second and subsequent attempts must be taken at the Mathematics Department. You should also be aware that we only keep track of your most recent score, so if your score goes down on your second attempt you will be placed according to the lower score.

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What material is covered on the test?

That depends on which test you take. One of the tests covers high school and college algebra and the other covers trigonometry and elementary functions. Use the following table to get more detailed information on the topics covered on each test.

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I need a special accomodation, what should I do?

Students who have special needs and who have verification from DSS should notify the Mathematics Department as soon as possible, but at least five working days before they plan to take the test. Please be aware that some kinds of accommodation will take longer than five days to arrange. You will be required to show the department your verification letter from DSS before any accomodation can be made.

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Who do I contact if I have more questions?

Phone the Mathematics Department at (701)777-2881. If for some reason they can't answer your questions, they will refer you to the Associate Chair of the department.

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