Overview
Starting in the right math course is an essential component of being successful in your math courses. If you are not transferring in a college math course, then you need to take a math placement test to make sure you start with the right course for you. Here at SF, we only use ACT or SAT scores to determine which math placement test you need to take (we have found that these tests describe current aptitude, but do not help decide where on the sequence a student should start).
Scoring
If your SAT/ACT is below 24/19, then you need to start with the PERT. The PERT will let you know if you need to take a developmental math course, or if you are ready for college level classes. The highest class the PERT can place you in is MAT 1033 (Intermediate Algebra, a college elective course intended to get you ready for College Algebra, a gen ed math course) or MGF1100 (Math Readiness, a college elective course intended to get you ready for the Liberal Arts Math courses and Statistics). Some students (check with your adviser) can now choose not to take the PERT and start in 1033 or 1100, but it is a very wise decision to at least take the PERT to see what level is recommended.
College-Level Scores
If your SAT/ACT is at or above 24/19, or you get a PERT score of 123 or higher, then you need to take the college level placement test (AAF or ALEKS). This can place you anywhere from MAT 1033 to MAC 2311 (Calculus I). With the ALEKS placement test, you can work through individualized practice and then retake the placement test.
SAT Math Score: 24 or above
ACT Math Score: 19 or above
PERT Math Score: 123 or above
Additional Placement Information
Student Resources - Find study material and information about how to be a good math student.
Math Courses - See what scores you need to get into each class, as well as descriptions and topic lists for each math class.