Math Placement Test FAQs

This page contains a list of common questions regarding the math placement test and algebra requirement. If you do not find an answer to your question, please contact Undergraduate Programs at 415-442-6565 or email us.

Who must take the placement test?

Any student who wants to take MATH 20 or MATH 30 at GGU, and who does not have the course prerequisite. Prerequisites: For MATH 20, C- or better in MATH 10; for MATH 30, C- or better in MATH 20.

Do I still have to take the placement test even if my advisor said they would take care of my algebra requirement?

Yes. Only you can take care of your algebra requirement. As a rule, anyone without previous college-level algebra courses must be tested to establish his/her algebra level prior to enrolling in a GGU algebra course. For example, those who wish to take MATH 30 must have finished an intermediate algebra level MATH 20 with a grade of C- or better.

Can I take the test more than once?

You can take the test only once a trimester, at least three months apart. If you feel your score would be improved with more review, you may study on your own and retake the test the next trimester.

How do I prepare for the test?

The Math Department has prepared a practice test for the placement subjects, which you may download here. If you are familiar with most of the material in the practice test, you will probably place into MATH 20 or MATH 30. If you have not previously studied the material, or have forgotten all of it, then you should probably plan on being placed into MATH 10.