Students entering SIUE may be required to take placement tests in writing, mathematics, and/or reading. The tests measure your skill levels and help your academic adviser select the courses you may need before beginning other courses or declaring major. We have developed the following frequently asked questions about these exams:
The writing test is a short essay. You will be asked to write a 350-word essay, three to five paragraphs in length, about one of three topics provided. Your essay will be evaluated on topic development, logic, organization, mechanics, and grammar.
The mathematics test is a multiple-choice test with items from arithmetic, algebra, and calculus.
The reading test is a multiple-choice exam used to assess how well you read college-level passages and answer questions about them.
The chemistry readiness test assesses skills in the areas of math, general basic chemistry, and specific chemistry knowledge. Students planning to major in engineering, computer science, chemistry, biology, physics, medical technology, pre-medicine, pre-dentistry, pre-veterinary medicine, or pre-pharmacy are required to take the Chemistry Readiness Test unless they scored 22 or above on the ACT math test (or 570 or above on the SAT).
All students MUST have a photo ID to take their test. You will also need a #2 pencil. Non-programmable scientific calculators are allowed for the chemistry readiness exam but are not allowed into the mathematics exam.
Testing needs for entering freshmen are based on ACT subscores. Students with an English subscore greater than 21 are exempt from the writing test. Students with an ACT math subscore greater than 19 are exempt from the mathematics test. Students with an ACT reading subscore greater than 19 are exempt from the reading test.
Testing needs for entering transfer students are based on previous courses taken. Tests are required unless students have completed the following SIUE equivalents with grades of C or better:
ENG 101 or 102 (English Composition) = exemption from reading/writing tests
AD 095 (Intermediate Algebra) or higher math = exemption from mathematics test
These exams help ensure that students are placed into courses that are at their academic level – not into courses that are too easy or too difficult.
Students who do not take the required placement tests are placed in the lowest level academic development courses in this area. Since academic development courses do not count as credit toward graduation, this can hinder a student’s progress toward graduation.
More information is available on the Instructional Services Web site, www.siue.edu/IS/TEST.
