Who should take placement tests?
Students entering the University arrive with varying levels of competence in reading, writing and math. It is important that all students entering the University begin taking courses at a level that is appropriate for their continued success. ACT scores and coursework completed through regionally accredited colleges and universities are considered for placement at SIUE. If you have not achieved the minimum ACT sub-scores or completed appropriate coursework required to be exempt from testing, you are required to take SIUE's placement examination prior to registering.
How are testing needs determined?
Please use the following information to determine which exams you should complete:
| ACT Reading Sub-score <21 | Reading placement exam required |
| ACT English Sub-score <21 | Writing placement exam required |
| Completion of ENG 101 or 102 | Placement exam is not required |
| ACT English/Reading Sub-scores >21 | Placement exam is not required |
In addition, you should be aware that enrollment in math courses is restricted to those students with appropriate preparation. While math is not required for all degree programs, students interested in Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Engineering, Mathematics, Medical Technology, Physics, Pre-Medicine, Pre-Dentistry, Pre-Veterinary Medicine, or Pre-Pharmacy are advised to plan for math enrollment accordingly. If you believe that your ACT sub-score is not an accurate reflection of your current competence in math, you may elect to complete the SIUE's placement exam for more appropriate placement prior to enrollment.
The chemistry readiness examination is required if you are planning to major in one of the above programs (except Mathematics) unless you have taken a college general chemistry course that is equivalent to CHEM 121A at SIUE or scored a 23 or above on the math portion of the ACT test.
I know my Math Sub-score, what Math Course am I eligible for?
Placement into math courses is based on your ACT math sub-score. Please refer to the below chart to determine the math course into which you will be placed. Placement testing will allow us to place you into the highest level math course you are eligible for based on your placement exam score.
| ACT Math Sub-score | Math Course Eligibility |
| 0-20 | AD 070 - Beginning Algebra |
| 21-22 | AD 095 - Intermediate Algebra |
| 23-25 | Math 120 - College Algebra |
| 26-27 | Math 125 - Pre-Calculus |
| 28-36 | Math 150 - Calculus I |
I have transfer credit, what Math Course am I eligible for?
If you have received credit for math courses that have been accepted as equivalent to SIUE's AD 095 or higher, these courses will be acknowledged as if you have completed them at SIUE for placement purposes (note: a grade of "C" or higher will be required). You may review your accepted transfer courses on your transcript in CougarNet.
If you did not compete AD 095 or higher and you plan to enroll in math courses at SIUE, you should plan to take SIUE's placement exam before registering to ensure appropriate placement.
I have taken the ACT more than once, which scores will be used for placement?
SIUE will acknowledge the highest sub-score on file for placement purposes.
What if I do not take my placement tests?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.
How do I register for a placement test?
Students can register for a placement test by visiting the Testing Services web site.
What if I have questions regarding placement tests?
Feel free to contact the Office of Admissions at (800) 447-SIUE or Testing Services directly at (618) 650-2295.
