Academic Placement
Academic placement in mathematics, English, chemistry and foreign language is determined based on a combination of ACT or SAT test scores and high school grade point average. As a result of this initial placement, you may be placed in beginning, advanced, or remedial non-credit courses. Because of individual differences, experience and competence in the academic subjects, it is possible to be placed at a beginning level in one subject area, an advanced level in a second subject area, and a remedial level in a third subject area. Sometimes students believe the initial placements do not accurately reflect their experience and competence in the academic subject. If you are one of those students, you may challenge your initial placement prior to or during COMPASS Orientation. Your placement score will be sent to you and will be available to you again at COMPASS Orientation.Do I have to take placement test(s)?
The following information should assist you in determining whether to challenge your initial placement and in preparing for challenging tests in any one or more of the four academic subject areas. The mathematics and chemistry tests are each approximately 85 minutes. If you wish to challenge your placement in English, contact the Testing Office at (256) 824-6725. Students who wish to take the mathematics, chemistry and/or English examination may do so prior to or on Day 1 of the Compass Program.
Placement Testing Schedule:
English Placement - - Thursdays at 2:30 p.m.
This test gives students the opportunity to place into EH 101 if they were originally placed in EH 100. This test does not allow the student to place out of EH 101. Please call Testing Services to schedule a placement test (256) 824-6725.
Math Placement - - Tuesdays at 9:30 a.m. and Thursdays at 1:00 p.m.
Register on-line at www.uah.edu/testing. No calculators allowed.
Chemistry Placement - - Tuesdays at 11:00 a.m.
Register on-line at www.uah.edu/testing. Calculators allowed.
English Language Placement Test
Required of non-native English speaking students newly admitted to UAH. This placement must be taken prior to initial registration at UAH. The scheduled dates are May 20, June 25, June 26, July 30, August 6, and August 7.
Who should take Math Placement?
For students whose major is in the College of Engineering or College of Science, you are strongly encouraged to take the Math placement test unless your initial place level is three (3). Please see enclosed placement schedule.
Who should take Chemistry Placement?
Students whose major is in the College of Engineering or College of Science must take the Chemistry placement test prior to registering for Chemistry courses. (Students with a level III math placement are automatically placed in CH121; therefore the Chemistry placement test is not needed.)
Students majoring in the College of Nursing will be placed in Chemistry 101.