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Mathematical Analysis Placement Test

What is the purpose of the Mathematical Analysis Placement Test?

The purpose of this exam is to place students into the appropriate course: Mathematics 1A or 1B. Passing Mathematics 1B (the second quarter of the precalculus sequence) with a grade of "C" or better will enable you to enroll in Mathematics 2A (the first quarter of calculus). Mathematics 1A is offered in the fall quarter; Mathematics 1B is offered during both summer sessions and in the fall and winter quarters.

Who should take the test?

If you plan to enroll in a precalculus mathematics course (Mathematics 1A or 1B) and have had only three years of math in high school, or the equivalent, or if your grade in a fourth-year high school math course (e.g., advanced algebra with trigonometry) was below a "C", the Mathematical Analysis Exam is recommended. Test results are valid for one academic year.

What should I study before the examination?

  • Elementary numeric and algebraic operations

  • Rational expressions

  • Exponents and radicals

  • Linear equations, inequalities, absolute values

  • Polynomials, quadratic equations

  • The coordinate plane and graphing

  • Functions and logarithms

  • Conceptual geometry

How can I prepare for the examination?

The Academic Testing Center has a small reference library to help you with your test preparation. Click here to learn about the check-out and return policies and procedures.

Review materials:

  1. Online Mathematics Diagnostic Test - Take this test to evaluate your current preparation for university-level precalculus course work.
  2. High School Course - Before taking the test, you should review your high school algebra course materials.
  3. Precalculus Textbook - Sullivan, M., Precalculus (6th ed.) Upper Saddle River, NJ: Prentice-Hall, 1999.

How long is the test?

You will have 45 minutes to answer 45 multiple-choice questions. A calculator is permitted.

Is test registration required?

Test registration is always required. You may register online, by phone or email.

Do I need an I.D. to take a placement test?

Yes. To be admitted to any test administered by the Academic Testing Center, you must present two forms of valid photo I.D. This requirement is strictly enforced.

The following are examples of acceptable forms of I.D.:

UCI or other school photo I.D. card AND a government-issued photo I.D. card. (e.g., a photo-bearing driver's license, a photo-bearing DMV-issued identification card, a photo-bearing military I.D. card, a passport featuring a current photograph, a Permanent Resident Card- commonly know as a Green Card- featuring a current photograph).

Sample items:
Click here for sample items. ...................................................

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