Placement Testing

Placement tests are designed to help determine which of the English, math and foreign language courses are the best place for you to start within a given sequence of instruction. All University of Wisconsin students, regardless of major, are required to acquire specific proficiencies in mathematics and writing to earn an associate or bachelor's degree. Many majors also require evidence of experience with a foreign language either at the high school or college level (please see your advisor for specific requirements).

The placement tests are specific to the UW System; tests from other colleges and universities outside the UW System do not replace these placement tests.

Placement Tests -- What do I need to know?

Students are allowed 90 minutes for each of the English and mathematics tests, and 60 minutes for the foreign language test. Although a calculator is not required, test-takers may use a scientific, non-graphing calculator during the mathematics test.

The standard fee for the group of placement tests per test day is $30, regardless of the number of tests taken. This $30 fee will be added to each degree-seeking student’s tuition and fees account – no advance payment for testing is required. This fee does not negate fee responsibility at any four-year UW institution.

**Placement Tests are offered in Spanish, German and French. Those students who intend to continue with a foreign language in college or any student with background in a foreign language, who have not taken college level foreign language courses previously, are strongly encouraged to take the appropriate foreign language test.

Placement Tests -- When?

Plan to take your placement tests at least two weeks prior to your Orientation date, or before meeting with your advisor (transfer students). This permits the return of the results and scoring which will be used to help select your classes when you register. Placement test results will be mailed to each student. Placement tests are provided on our campus on the dates listed.

Please plan to arrive at least 15 minutes before the noted test start time to locate the test site. The tests begin promptly at the time listed; late arrivals will not be admitted and must take the tests at a later date.

Advance registration for placement testing is not required; rather simply choose the date and time that fits your schedule and report for the tests. (Important note: advance registration for your orientation and registration is required.)

The University of Wisconsin requires students to show a government-issued photo identification document such as driver’s license, state-issued ID or passport when they arrive to take placement tests. Also acceptable is a high school photo ID with full name listed. Students will not be allowed to test without providing an appropriate photo ID.

Directional signage will be posted on campus on each test day.