Colorado State Mathematics Placement Examination

General Information about the Mathematics Placement Exam (MPE)

The MPE is given on a "walk-in" basis ( when classes are in session) in the PACe Testing Center (Weber 138) according to the table shown below. The exam consists of 50 multiple choice and multiple choice-multiple response questions and covers topics in College Algebra, Numerical & Analytic Trigonometry, and Logarithms & Exponential Functions. The exam period is two hours and twenty minutes long. Calculators are allowed, but you must use the TI-84 calculator provided by the PACe Testing Center. Reference materials may not be used during the exam.

The MPE may be taken twice on campus in a proctored setting. Exam results are available immediately. Incoming students have an additional opportunity to take the exam remotely prior to their term of admission.

Do I need to take the MPE?

All entering freshmen are required to take the Mathematics Placement Exam. The MPE is waived for students who either scored 3,4, or 5 on an Advanced Placement Calculus Exam (either AB or BC), or have transfer credit in a math course at the level of college algebra or above. Transfer students who have not transferred any mathematics courses to Colorado State must begin with the MPE. Students who do not place into the math course required by their degree program are directed to complete the Entry-Level Mathematics (ELM) Tutorial and then take a Prerequisite Exam.

Is there a fee?

An exam fee of $15 is automatically charged to your student account the first time you take the Math Placement Exam. This is a one time fee and covers subsequent attempts of the MPE. If you need to complete the ELM Tutorial and take the Prerequisite Exam, you will not be charged again.

What do you need to bring?

For either the MPE or the Prerequisite Exam, you need to bring a pencil or pen, and identification that includes your photo and student ID number. Currently enrolled students are required to bring their Colorado State RamCard as identification.