All first time undergraduate students entering the College receive a Math Placement Level (MPL) as part of the admissions process. The level is determined by previously taken mathematics courses and SAT Math scores. College courses express math prerequisites in terms of the MPL. Students can raise their MPL by taking specific math courses or by taking Mathematics Placement Exams offered by the Math Department. You are encouraged to review the material in the sample exams posted below before taking an exam.
Summary of Math Placement Levels and What They Mean:
| MPL | Meaning | Courses that will raise level (A grade of C- or better will raise MPL to (x)) | Or take this MP Exam |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Deficiency in Fundamental Skills | 64151 College Math (3) 64093 College Algebra A (3) |
Basic Algebra |
| 2 | Deficiency in College Level Mathematics Skills. | 64151 College Math (3) 64093 College Algebra A (3) |
Basic Algebra |
| 3 | Ready for some General Education MATH courses, (see specific prerequisites) | 64193 College Algebra B (4) 64152 College Algebra (4) |
College Algebra |
| 4 |
Prepared for Precalculus or any GE III MATH course; |
64181 Precalculus (5) | Precalculus |
| 5 | General Education MATH requirement met for GEIII; MATH & ANSK met for GEII & IIA, ready for Calculus I (64251). | 64251 Calculus I (6) | |
| 6 | Successfully completed Calculus I |
Mathematics Placement Examinations Scheduled:
| Date | Start Time | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Friday, August 21, 2009 | 3:00 p.m. | LC 109 |
| Wednesday, August 26, 2009 | 10:50 p.m. | LC 109 |
| Friday, August 28, 2009 | 3:00 p.m. | LC 109 |
| Friday, August 28, 2009 | 6:00 p.m. | LC 109 |
There are three levels of Mathematics Placement Examinations: Basic Algebra Exam, College Algebra Exam, and Precalculus Exam. All three exams are offered at each testing date. Any one level may not be re-taken within a 60 day period. Sign-up is not necessary to take this examination. Bring a No. 2 pencil and a picture ID. Calculators are not permitted. Results will be posted the following day. For more information call Melissa Cass (Math Placement Coordinator) at (845) 257-3444 or e-mail her at cassm@newpaltz.edu.
Brief Descriptions of Introductory Level Mathematics Courses
Sample Exams:
