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Placement tests are designed to assess students' current academic skills' and used to determine course placement AND prerequisite eligibility in the areas of English, English as a Second Language, Reading, Writing, Mathematics, and some computer and science courses. Placement tests are given to all new matriculating students and are REQUIRED for enrollment in an English, English as a Second Language, Reading, Writing and/or Mathematics course AND any course that has an English, reading, writing, or math prerequisite. The test results are valid for two years. Appropriate course placement is essential to a successful college experience and important for academic development.

What options do students have to complete the Assessment requirements?

• Drop-in computerized testing in English/reading and mathematics on a first-come, first-serve basis. No appointments are necessary, however please allow at least 1.5 hours for each test. Test results available immediately upon completion of the tests. Computerized ESL testing is currently not available.
• Hours may change and are posted. Students may call (650) 574-6262 for a recording of hours of operation.
• Computerized testing is available to continuing CSM students, new incoming students who have applied to CSM, and high school students participating in the Concurrent Enrollment Program.

Paper/Pencil English, English as a Second Language, and Math Placement Testing (Year-round Service)

• Weekly scheduled small-group testing
• Seasonally scheduled large-group testing (during registartion periods). Dates and times are available in the Schedule of Classes or online at Assessment Center
• By appointment Ability-To-Benefit testing for the Office of Financial Aid

What are the requirements for Placement Testing?

Students must first complete the College Admission Application prior to going to Placement Testing. Pre-registration to take the placement tests in not required. You must bring with you on the day of the test:

Is there a testing fee? Are testing appointments required?

No fee is charged to take the test and appointments are not required.

Who is required to take the CSM placement tests?

All new and returning students are required to be assessed prior to registration to determine their skill level in English, reading and mathematics. It is important that your counselor/advisor review your placement test results so that, in combination with other relevant information, he/she can assist you in choosing the appropriate courses to take in order to help you reach your educational goal. While no single placement test score by itself can exclude a student from enrolling in any particular course, these tests provide one of the most effective means for measuring your knowledge of English, reading and mathematics.

1. Present proof to their English instructor that they have completed, with a grade of C or higher, college courses equivalent to the CSM prerequisites as listed in the class schedule
2. Hold an associate or higher degree from an accredited institution
3. Are enrolling in 6 or fewer units and are not planning to enroll in an English or reading class. Students will receive credit for English 836 (and eligibility for English 100) with proof of a minimum score on one of the following tests:

1. Present proof to their mathematics instructor that they have completed with a grade of C or higher college courses equivalent to the CSM prerequisites as listed in the class schedule
2. Present proof to their mathematics instructor that they received a score of 4 or 5 on the AP Calculus AB Exam or a score of 3, 4, or 5 on the AP Calculus BC Exam
3. Are not planning to enroll in a mathematics class, including business mathematics.

How many times may students take the placement tests?

Assessment results are valid for two years and may bot be taken more than once in a 2 year period. However, students may repeat the same level of math test once within the 2 year period. For information regarding special exceptions to this policy,call the Assessment Center at 574-6175.

I took a Placement Test at Cañada College (or Skyline), can I transfer those results to CSM?

The College of San Mateo will utilize placement tests completed within the San Mateo County Community College District only.

I can't enroll for the English course I want to take, what should I do?

The San Mateo County Community College District has established a procedure for enforcing certain prerequisites. For English 838, 848, 100/101, 110 and 165, a computerized prerequisite checking system is in place. If you have not met the prerequisite(s) you will be blocked from enrolling in these courses. If you believe you have met the prerequisite (either by placement test or completing the prerequisite course) contact the Assessment Center, 574-6175.

Students are reminded that ALL prerequisites continue to be enforced.

I took the English Placement Test but I believe my placement is incorrect, what can I do about this?

If you wish to challenge an English course placement or prerequisite, you will need to do the following:

Bring your placement test results and see the designated English Instructor during the hours scheduled. You will be asked to complete a "Petition to Challenge Prerequisite" form. After completing this form, the designated English instructor will review your previous coursework, placement test results, and other relevant information. You will also be asked to write an essay, which will take one hour, during the times scheduled.

For English Instructor and scheduling contact the Language Arts Division Office at 574-6314

Yes. Special tests for students who speak English as a second language are given on each of the dates listed. Other students who have questions about the ESL tests are encouraged to contact the Multicultural Center (Bldg. 20, Room 107, 574-6154) or the Testing Office (Bldg. 1, Room 207, 574-6175). Which test should you take?

 

Assessment Center is located in Building 1, Room 130

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Chapter 4 - How do I enroll in classes?