Math Placement (ALEKS)
Students complete math placement to determine which math course best fits their skill level. ALEKS is available to students any time in my Tri-C Space. No appointment is needed.
New students who learned English as a second language, and who have not submitted qualifying ACT or SAT math test scores, should complete the English as a Second Language (ESL) placement test before completing math placement. ESL students must complete ESL Level II, or place into ESL Level III, before completing math placement.
If you previously earned a C or better in a college-level math course you may not need to complete math placement. Speak with a counselor first.
If you are a transient/visiting student (your intention is to return to your home institution) you may not need to use ALEKS. Please see Visiting Students for information on obtaining approval and submitting your Transient Enrollment Request Form.”
Students who do not submit qualifying ACT or SAT math scores complete ALEKS for math placement.
What is ALEKS?
ALEKS uses artificial intelligence and adaptive questioning to determine what you know, what you don't know, and most importantly what you're ready to learn next. The results of your assessment will ensure you are placed into a math course that best fits your skill level. Check out the short video, and follow the steps below to get started!
Complete an Initial Assessment
Log in to my Tri-C space. Choose the Student option, scroll down and select Math Placement Prep and Learn (ALEKS). Complete the initial assessment of up to 30 questions. The assessment has a two-hour time limit. Use scratch paper and pencil only. All students are expected to do their own work.
Do not use a personal calculator or get help from friends or online resources. An on-screen calculator is provided in the assessment for select questions. This is the only calculator that should be used. Using outside help or a calculator will result in placement into a math course that you’re not ready for. Failing a class will cost you extra time and money on the way to completing your degree.
Can I use ALEKS on my phone?
Although most tablets will work, smaller mobile devices and smartphones are not supported. See the full system requirements for ALEKS here.
Improve Your Skills
After completing the initial assessment, ALEKS creates a personalized learning plan based on your results. The Prep and Learn module is a self-paced learning environment where you can practice and improve your skills before your next assessment. Progress checks along the way make sure you are retaining the information you have learned.
Improve Your Placement
Students have free access to ALEKS for one year and may complete up to five assessments. By working in the Prep and Learn module and completing additional assessments, you can sharpen your math skills and potentially place into a higher math course. Complete five hours of practice in your learning module to unlock your next assessment. ALEKS is a web-based program and will save your progress as you work, so it's not required to do five hours all at once.
Take Advantage of Math Support
A Tri-C Math Coach will contact you to review your assessment score and connect you with math support to help you succeed in ALEKS and prepare for your next assessment. You can do it! Our Math Coaches are here to help you.
If you have questions about ALEKS, or, if you do not have access to a computer to complete the ALEKS assessment, contact a campus Testing Center for assistance with next steps.