FAQ

Do I need to take the CMPT if I have math transfer or AP credit?

No. Only students wanting to use the CMPT for placement should take the CMPT.

Can I use my SAT or ACT math scores for math placement, or am I required to take the CMPT?

You are not required to take the CMPT. If you meet the prerequisites via SAT math or ACT math for the course you need to take for your major, you do not need to take the CMPT. However, if you do not, and you would like to take the CMPT to try and place into your required math course, you may do so.

I do not have a computer with a webcam. How can I take the placement test?

Please contact mathreg@clemson.edu to set up a time to come in and use a loaner laptop to take the CMPT. You will need to stay in our building while taking the placement test.

I can't take the CMPT, because it says I am not eligible. What do I do?

Please email mathreg@clemson.edu. Include your Clemson UserID and your XID. Please let her know if you are a new student or a continuing student.

I can't take the test because ALEKS isn't working properly. What can I do?

Go to our technical support page.

Can I take the placement test after I come to orientation?

Yes, you may take it after orientation. If you registered for a course at orientation which you later place out of, you can drop the old course and add a new one after all orientation sessions are over.

When is the last time I may take the CMPT?

The CMPT is never turned off. You may take it anytime. However, you must complete it at least two days before the last day to add if you intend to register for a course that semester with a CMPT prerequisite.

I have taken the CMPT once and either want to take it again or want to work on the learning modules. How do I do that?

If you click "Go To ALEKS", you will be taken to the ALEKS website again. This time though, you should have the option to work on the learning modules (top left) or take the test again (top right).

What course should I take based on my score?

What course you take depends on your major. Most majors have a required first math course. You should consult the university catalog to see what math course you need to take. Once you know what course you need to start out in, visit the interpretation page to see what CMPT score is required to take that course.

What if my score isn't high enough to take the course I need?

You should first try and work through the learning modules to improve your score. If you have already done that, you should take the course you do qualify for that is in the same column as the one you need on our interpretation page.

Note: If your major requires MATH 1020 first and you made between a 50 and a 59, we recommend you take MATH 1990 and 1991 instead of MATH 1010 or STAT 2220. It will better prepare you for MATH 1020.

Note: If your major requires STAT 2300 and you made between a 50 and a 59, we recommend you take MATH 1010 or STAT 2220 instead of MATH 1990 and 1991.

I have a question, but it isn't one of these. Whom do I contact?

If it is a problem with ALEKS: downloading, installing, or taking the test, you will need to contact them. Please see our technical support page for full details.

If it is any other question, email mathreg@clemson.edu. Please include your Clemson ID number, Clemson userID, and intended major.