Q: Do I need a placement test?
A: Based on our review of a student’s ACT or SAT score, he/she may be required to take the Composition Placement Test and/or the ALEKS Mathematics Test. Please see "Taking Placement Exams" for more information on who is required to take placement tests.
Students with a foreign language requirement may elect to take the Foreign Language Placement Test to try to fulfill the requirement or to place into an intermediate-level course.
Q: Do I need to study? How can I review it?
A: Familiarizing yourself with the information that will be covered in the placement tests is always helpful. To begin the Math placement assessment process, please schedule an initial assessment in the Testing Center. After the initial assessment, you will be provided a prep and learn module within ALEKS. Students spending a MINIMUM of 10 hours studying in the ALEKS Prep and Learn modules may sign up for a Math retest.
The Composition test is a forty-minute written essay in response to a prompt given to you prior to beginning the exam. We currently have no sample information provided for this exam.)
Q: How long do the tests take?
A: We recommend that you plan on taking one hour for each test that you require. For example, if you require the Composition and Math tests, you should plan on spending a little more than three hours testing. Students have 2 hours to complete the ALEKS® Math test and 40 minutes to take the Composition Placement Test exam.
Q: Do the tests cost anything?
A: There is a $20.00 fee billed to students for students who wish to access a second subscription to the ALEKS Math Placement Test.
Q: Do I need them before I start school?
A: Yes, you should complete your placement tests a minimum of 5-7 days prior to seeing an advisor and registering for courses at YSU. Placement testing must be completed prior to your assigned Orientation date.
Transfer students should schedule their placement exams after consulting their advisor and complete their testing requirements prior to their initial registration at YSU. We recommend that students schedule their tests as early as possible so that they are free to schedule necessary Composition and Math courses.
Q: How do I sign up to take the test?
A: Students may click on the "Schedule a Test" link at the YSU Testing Center homepage.
Q: Can I take classes without them?
A: We strongly discourage you from registering without completing your testing requirements. However, if you have not been able to schedule your exams, you may register for limited coursework. Keep in mind that placement tests are designed to help accurately place you into the courses best suited to your skill levels. Many classes you will encounter at YSU require the skills on which you will be tested. Furthermore, you will not be permitted to register for REQUIRED Composition and Math courses without first taking the placement tests.
Q: Can I use Placement Test scores from another college?
A: This decision is made on a case-by-case basis. Potentially accepted scores are from other Universities that also proctor the ALEKS® Math assessment. These scores must be sent on an official document from the school to "testing@ysu.edu." *ALEKS Math placement exams MUST have been completed in a proctored environment to be transferred to YSU.
Placement scores from tests other than ALEKS® Math can not be accepted.
Q: Do I need to bring anything for the test?
A: Please bring two #2 pencils, and a current Photo I. D. All other personal belongings will not be permitted in the Testing Center.
Q: How do I find out my scores?
A: In many cases, students will receive their math scores before they leave the testing area. Composition scores take 7-10 days to be processed, but if you have any questions regarding your placements, please see your academic advisor.