EIU Department of Mathematics and Computer Science

Math Placement Information

Eastern offers two methods for initial math placement (if you are not transferring in courses that impact your math placement). Below is a brief overview of each option. For more details and a math general education course flowchart, please refer to the Math Placement Guidelines document. Make sure to allow enough time for placement testing to avoid missing course registration deadlines. 

Placement by ACT/SAT Math Score

If you have an ACT or SAT math score on file at Eastern, your initial math class placement will be determined by this score. If you are not satisfied with your placement based on these scores, your advisor can help you request the ALEKS placement instead.

Placement by ALEKS

If you are not using ACT/SAT math scores, you must use ALEKS for your initial math placement. The purpose is to ensure you have the most accurate and appropriate placement possible. The test should not be stressful and it is not high stakes. Rather, the test will let you know what you are best prepared for regarding mathematics. There is no benefit being placed in the wrong/incorrect math class.

• Incoming freshmen should have received an email or letter with placement information.
• Continuing and transfer students who need math placement should contact their advisor to initiate a request for the placement test.

ALEKS is provided at no cost to students and is handled through Eastern's Testing Service. You can contact this office at 217-581-1185 or visit their webite at EIU Testing Services. You will have the ability to take the placement test up to 5 times along with completing online modules in between each test. This video provides a general overview of the experience. 

Be sure to download the Math Placement Guidelines document for specific details regarding placement scores and course needs.