This page contains a link to purchase an ALEKS access code and take the math placement test. Additionally, it provides directions and a summary of frequently asked questions (FAQ).
Click here to Purchase an ALEKS access code and take the test.
Instructions
- After clicking on the link above, you must sign in with your FSUID and password to access the test.
- You will be asked to agree to terms of use for ALEKS.
- Select FSU ALEKS, Sum/Fall23-Sp24, AY 2023 by clicking on the circle with three dots and choose “Apply access.” If you do not see the box, click "Add Class" and then enter this 10-character class code: QRXFP-TRTLL (then proceed to apply access).
- For first time access, select “No, I need to purchase an access code.”
- You will need to purchase online access using a credit card and then receive the 20-character online access code via email. Be sure to save this for future use!
- The cost is $20 and must be paid by credit card [includes initial test, 3 retakes plus access to learning modules]. If you have questions, contact ACE at ace@fsu.edu or (850) 645-0852.
FAQS:
What is the ALEKS math placement test?
The ALEKS math placement test is an online, skill-based assessment that helps our Math Department in placing you in the appropriate math course in the MAC sequence (if applicable to your major). For more information, go to https://www.math.fsu.edu/Undergraduate/ALEKS/.
Why do students need to take the ALEKS math placement test?
FSU is committed to supporting and laying the foundation for student success. Mathematics courses at FSU are challenging and rigorous, so it is important that students register for the appropriate math course based on their current skill level and abilities. Additionally, ALEKS allows students to start beyond the entry point in the MAC sequence, College Algebra (MAC 1105), or other higher-level college course if taken in high school. This opportunity to advance is especially critical for STEM and business majors and students considering pre-health professions who will need to take long math and science course sequences.
Who needs to take the ALEKS math placement test?
ALEKS is strongly encouraged but NOT REQUIRED for MAC1105 (College Algebra) which is the first course in the MAC sequence for students not bringing any college math credit to FSU. ALEKS is REQUIRED for first-year freshmen admits (not transfers) who want to begin MAC coursework in any of these higher-level courses: Analytic Trigonometry (MAC 1114), Precalculus Algebra (MAC 1140), Calculus with Analytic Geometry I (MAC 2311), or Calculus for Business (MAC 2233) as their first mathematics course at FSU (in their first or subsequent semesters) and have no other documentation showing earned college credit. You do not need to take ALEKS if:
- You plan to register for MGF1106 (Mathematics for Liberal Arts), MGF1107 (Practical Finite Math), or a statistics course.
- You have earned college mathematics credit with a C- or better in an MAC course through high school dual enrollment or transfer credit as evidenced on a copy of your college transcript that you can bring to advising during New Nole orientation.
- You have earned college mathematics credit as evidenced by the requisite score on an AP, IB, AICE, or CLEP official score report that you can print and bring to academic advising during New Nole orientation. If you are unsure, check Test Scores and FSU Course Equivalents.
Students waiting on an AP/IB/AICE/CLEP mathematics score from senior year and planning to start beyond MAC1105 (College Algebra) are required to take ALEKS prior to New Nole orientation to be prepared for academic advising and avoid delays in course registration.
ALEKS is STRONGLY RECOMMENDED for all students who intend to register for College Algebra (MAC1105) as their first mathematics course at FSU (in their first or subsequent semesters) - especially STEM, business, and pre-health professions students who may benefit from advancing beyond MAC1105 or other higher-level courses in the math sequence.
Still unsure? Click here to use the ALEKS Requirement Checker!
What if I don’t know which math course I need to take in my first semester at FSU?
Math requirements vary by your career goals and by your major. Your best source of information about WHICH math courses you need to take is the Academic Map for your chosen major as outlined in the Academic Program Guide. Majors that are likely to require one of the math courses above include the following: any major in the natural or hard sciences, mathematics or statistics-based majors, computer science, engineering, and any major in the College of Business. If you still need advice, you may check this Math Requirements by Major List or email your academic advisor or ace@fsu.edu for more information.
What if a student has incoming credit for prerequisite math coursework?
Students with MAC credit with a grade of C- or better awarded through dual enrollment or other transfer work in a prerequisite math course are NOT required to take ALEKS unless they would like to attempt placement in a higher level course than the next one in the MAC sequence. Students waiting on an AP/IB/AICE/CLEP mathematics score from senior year of high school must take ALEKS prior to New Nole orientation in order to register for anything higher than MAC1105 (College Algebra). This ensures students are registering for the appropriate math class and/or using the ALEKS Learning Module to get up to speed. Once an ALEKS score is received, then the student should consult with his/her academic adviser during orientation to determine the most appropriate course of action (e.g., taking a lower level math course or using the Learning Module to prepare for a higher level math course).
When do I need to take the ALEKS placement test?
Students must take the ALEKS test online before registering for any of the math courses listed above. New first-year freshmen should take the ALEKS test before their scheduled orientation date so they are able to register for a math course while on campus for initial advising and registration. Compliance with the placement testing requirement will be monitored by the Math Department prior to and during the drop/add period. The Math Department will communicate with students directly regarding any placement testing compliance issues.
How much does the test cost?
The cost of the exam is $20 and will be paid directly by the student to the ALEKS website via the link provided by FSU. The fee covers the cost of the exam and access to the Learning Module.
How do I interpret my ALEKS score?
To view the chart that outlines your course eligibility, go to https://www.math.fsu.edu/Undergraduate/ALEKS/
What is the Learning Module that is included in the ALEKS math placement product?
After taking the initial assessment, students have access to a learning module that adaptively helps the student to hone rusty but fundamentally sound skills. Students can use the learning module to improve skills and then retake the test, or as a supplemental tool to assist in preparing for and successfully completing a math course. The learning module is available to the student for 6 months after taking the placement test.
Who do I contact if I have questions about the ALEKS math placement test?
If you have additional questions regarding ALEKS, you may contact the Academic Center for Excellence (ACE) at ace@fsu.edu or (850) 645-0852. You can also find more detailed information on the Math Department website: https://www.math.fsu.edu/Undergraduate/ALEKS/