Placement Testing
Placement testing for mathematics and statistics courses at UNR is done using ACCUPLACER, a computer-adaptive test designed to assess mathematical skills. ACCUPLACER is made by CollegeBoard.Who is eligible to take Accuplacer?
In order to take Accuplacer the following criteria must be met:
- Students must have successfully applied to UNR and have an R-number.
- Students may not take Accuplacer if they have already taken math/stat class at UNR*.
*If it has been over a year since your last math/stat class you may talk to a Math/Stat Department advisor regarding a waiver.
How many times can I take the Accuplacer placement tests and how much does it cost?
Students can take the Accuplacer placement tests up to three times. Students must wait 48 hours between each take.
The first take is free, while the second and third take cost $10 each. The $10 testing fee must be paid to the Cashier's Office before testing. The Math Center can not accept payment. (print fee form)
The first take is free, while the second and third take cost $10 each. The $10 testing fee must be paid to the Cashier's Office before testing. The Math Center can not accept payment. (print fee form)
How can I prepare for Accuplacer?
Accuplacer does not offer practice tests at this time. Instead they offer a number of sample questions -look for the sections labeled "Elementary Algebra Sample Questions" and "College-Level Mathematics Test"
Additionally, other institutions have developed their own practice tests.
Additionally, other institutions have developed their own practice tests.
- Montgomery College
- AnokaRamsey Community College
- Dallas County Community College
- Howard Community College
- Los Angeles Valley College
*Please note that listing a web site does not serve as an endorsement of the site.
How does Accuplacer work?
Accuplacer is an adaptive test. Questions are chosen based on how
students answered previous questions. This technique selects
the appropriate questions for the students’ ability level. Because the
test works this way, students must answer every question when it
is first given. The test is not timed so students are encouraged to take as much time as they need. They can change an answer to a particular question before moving on to the next question, but they cannot leave a question blank or come back to it later to change an answer.
Is there more than one kind of test?
Yes.
Accuplacer offers multiple placement tests for different
disciplines. UNR uses two tests for math placement
–Elementary Algebra (EA) and College Level Math (CLM).
Students at UNR are given the Elementary Algebra test to start with; if they do well enough, Accuplacer will automatically lead them into the College Level Math test. (This is considered one "take"; students are not charged another test fee if they do well enough to continue onto the CLM test).
Students at UNR are given the Elementary Algebra test to start with; if they do well enough, Accuplacer will automatically lead them into the College Level Math test. (This is considered one "take"; students are not charged another test fee if they do well enough to continue onto the CLM test).
In order to place into a number of math/stat courses it is required that you score at a certain level on BOTH tests.
What should I bring to the test?
You should bring a picture ID (if you are a current student you should bring your WolfCard), your R-number and a pencil or pen for doing
work. You do not need a calculator. Accuplacer provides an
on-screen calculator when needed.
If you are taking the placement test for a second or third time there is a $10 testing fee. This fee must be paid to the Cashier's Office before you take the test (print fee form). The Math Center can not accept payment for the testing fee.
If you are taking the placement test for a second or third time there is a $10 testing fee. This fee must be paid to the Cashier's Office before you take the test (print fee form). The Math Center can not accept payment for the testing fee.
How long until my score is posted?
Please allow the Math Center two business days to report your scores to Admissions and Records.
I don't live in the Reno area; can I take Accuplacer some place else?
If you live in the Las Vegas area, you can take Accuplacer at UNR's Southern Office of Prospective Students.
Additionally,
Please note that students will have to abide by any and all policies/fees set by the other NSHE institutions.
*Accuplacer test scores from TMCC can be directly transferred to Admissions and Records; please contact their office at 784-4700.
Students who need to take Accuplacer outside Nevada please click here for more information.
Additionally,
Please note that students will have to abide by any and all policies/fees set by the other NSHE institutions.
*Accuplacer test scores from TMCC can be directly transferred to Admissions and Records; please contact their office at 784-4700.
Students who need to take Accuplacer outside Nevada please click here for more information.
Please note that the following on-line mathematics placement tests are discontinued:
• BART (placement into MATH 120 and MATH 126),
• 128-readiness
• 181-readiness
Placement scores earned prior to the end of Spring 2008 registration will remain valid through Spring 2009 enrollment. [Information about old placement testing]