Score Interpretation
Math placement test scores should be interpreted with the assistance of an academic adviser.
The math department has established the following cut-off scores for VCU courses. Students should consult with their adviser to determine which course they should register for to avoid taking unnecessary courses. See the Courses page for course descriptions.
| ALEKS Score | VCU Math Placement Level | Course(s) You Are Eligible to Enroll In* |
|---|---|---|
| 0-44 | 131 | MATH 129 (for those who need to complete MATH 141 or higher) or MATH 131 (for those who only need math for the Quantitative Foundations requirement) |
| 45-59 | 141 | MATH 141 or STAT 208 |
| 60 | 139 | MATH 139, MATH 141 or STAT 208 |
| 61-75 | 151 | MATH 151, STAT 210 or BUSN 212 |
| 76-100 | 200 | MATH 200, MATH 211, CMSC 255, BUSN 212 or STAT 212 |
* Make selection in consultation with your academic adviser
MATH 131 does not serve as a prerequisite for any other math course but does fulfill the Quantitative Foundations requirement. If you need to complete MATH 141 or higher for your degree program and place at the 131 level, the math department highly recommends you take MATH 129 instead of MATH 131.
Please Note
- The mathematics placement test is a prerequisite for only the introductory courses above. All other mathematics, statistics and computer science courses require previous coursework.
- The mathematics placement test score indicates a student’s appropriate level of introductory course and does not earn a student credit for any course. It does not satisfy any requirement for graduation.
- Math credits are awarded for the successful completion of VCU math courses, transfer credits or satisfactory AP/IB test scores.
- Math courses taken in high school that are not dual enrollment courses with an accredited university cannot be used to place into a higher introductory math course.
Satisfied With Your Score?
Write down your placement score. You will need your VCU math placement test score to complete your registration survey. Your score will be uploaded to your student record within 24-48 hours so you can register for the math class for which you qualified.
Unsatisfied With Your Score?
If you have taken the placement test and are not satisfied with your current math course placement, you have an option to place one course level higher by completing the appropriate ALEKS prep and learning module with 100 percent mastery of all objectives in the module.
Visit the Prep and Learning Modules page for further information on this option.