PLACEMENT TESTING - Math, Writing and Modern Languages

New degree-seeking DePaul students are required to complete online placement tests in Math , Writing , and Modern Languages .  These placement tests ensure students register for courses that best build on their current skills so that they can succeed in their studies at DePaul. 

Students are required to complete the online placement tests prior to registering for orientation or attending an initial advising session in order to have a productive session with an academic advisor.  To help students register for appropriate courses, academic advisors discuss the placement test results, prior course history and other standardized test scores with students.

Exemptions from Online Placement Tests

Some students are exempt from taking tests based on standardized test scores and/or other prior course history.  In addition, the mathematics and modern language requirements vary for some degree programs at DePaul.  Before taking the placement tests online, please review the test exemptions and specific guidelines for different majors/colleges on the Student Records website. 

Students are required to complete their placement tests before they are allowed to register for orientation.

Brief Overview of the Placement Tests

Math: The math placement test is made up of 57 questions, and divided into five parts: Computational Skills, Basic Algebra, Math Diagnostic I (College Algebra), Math Diagnostic II (College Algebra and Precalculus) and Math Diagnostic III (Trigonometry and Calculus). Students have 100 minutes to complete the test.  Only one problem will come up on the computer screen at a time, and you will not be able to go back to any problem. 

Writing: The Writing placement test requires students to read a short excerpt and respond with an original essay.  Students receive detailed instructions on the specific parameters for the essay.  There is a time limit of 48 hours (exactly two days) to submit the essay.  This test determines a student’s skill level in writing; therefore students should submit a well written, highly organized essay.

Modern Languages: The Modern Language placement test evaluates skills in Listening Comprehension and Grammar. The test has a 2 hour time limit and requires a computer that can play streaming audio (mp3 format) and speakers or headphones for the Listening Comprehension portion.  Students can complete online Modern Language tests in Spanish, French, Italian, German, Russian and Japanese.  To be evaluated in another language, contact the Modern Language Department.  Some programs at DePaul require study in a Modern Language; others allow students to take a Modern Language Option.  See the Modern Language Requirement to determine which applies to you.  All students admitted to the Honors Program must demonstrate proficiency through the intermediate level of a language other than English.

Accessing the Online Placement Tests

A DePaul UserID and Password is required to access the Math and Writing tests through Campus Connection . Students are sent a DePaul UserID and Password from the Admissions Office. To activate a modern language test, email dpcl@depaul.edu .  Please include your name, student ID number and the modern language test you wish to take.

NOTE: Non-degree and SNL students must request permission from the Student Records office at dpcl@depaul.edu   to activate a placement test required as a prerequisite.

If you have any questions about testing, please contact dpcl@depaul.edu. For additional information on placement tests, visit the Student Records website.