Placement Tests
Purpose of Placement Tests
Placement tests ensure that you start your courses at the correct level. The Mathematics, Chemistry, and Dance placement tests will be administered during Discover ECU in June and July. Please read below to determine if you are required to take these placement tests.
Mathematics
The Mathematics placement test focuses on linear algebra. You may bring a four function calculator to use on the test. Click for sample test questions and review. Students who score 540 or above on the mathematics portion of the SAT or who score 400 or above on the SAT Level IIC achievement test in mathematics are not required to take the mathematics placement test.
Chemistry
The chemistry placement test is required only for students interested in biology, chemistry, clinical laboratory science, environmental health sciences, exercise physiology, geology, nutrition and dietetics, physics, physician assistant studies, science education, or predental, preengineering, preveterinary, prepharmacy, or preoptometry programs. Students interested in pursuing a graduate education in physical therapy should also take the chemistry placement test. You do not need to take the chemistry placement test unless you are interested in the above fields. Students are allowed to use a non-programmable calculator on this test.
Dance
If you are interested in a degree in dance, you should be prepared to take a placement test during orientation. Proper attire is leotard, footless tights, and ballet shoes. Placement is determined for ballet, jazz, and contemporary dance classes.
Foreign Language
The Foreign Language placement tests are administered during Explore ECU in August or during the fall semester. If you studied a language in high school, you are encouraged to take the foreign language placement test.The placement exam is required for enrollment in any 1000-level Spanish course, including 1001. Please visit the foreign language Website for more information. Please note that if you transferred college-level credit in a language that you began in high school, you should not take a placement test in that language. You may also choose not to take the test and begin language courses at the 1001 level. Students who place into 1002-1004 will, upon successful completion of that course, be given credit for lower-level courses.
