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Miramar Math Assessment
Test Preparation Site
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The math placement test will determine the level of math you are eligible to take at Miramar College, as well as the total number of math courses that will be required to complete your program. Therefore, it is in your best interest to spend a few days preparing for the test. Students who do not prepare typically score one to two levels below their last math class.
You can view the general math course sequence here, though be sure to talk to a counselor for the requirements of your specific program.
This guide will help you perform to your potential and prevent you from having to take unnecessary math courses, which means graduating sooner and paying less for college.
You can view the general math course sequence here, though be sure to talk to a counselor for the requirements of your specific program.
This guide will help you perform to your potential and prevent you from having to take unnecessary math courses, which means graduating sooner and paying less for college.
Who should take the placement test?
Students who plan to:
Students are exempt from taking the math placement test if they have earned an Associate's degree or higher, or have taken the equivalent math courses at another college or university.
As an alternative to the placement test, the San Diego Community College District accepts standardized test scores to determine placement. Official copies of SAT, ACT, EAP, CAASPP, and ELM scores must be submitted to District Student Services for courses with a Math 96 prerequisite. All tests must have been complete within the past 2 years. Test scores must be officially submitted to the San Diego Community College District.
Students who plan to:
- take one or more math courses
- take a course that has a math prerequisite
- obtain an associate degree
- transfer to a four-year college or university
Students are exempt from taking the math placement test if they have earned an Associate's degree or higher, or have taken the equivalent math courses at another college or university.
As an alternative to the placement test, the San Diego Community College District accepts standardized test scores to determine placement. Official copies of SAT, ACT, EAP, CAASPP, and ELM scores must be submitted to District Student Services for courses with a Math 96 prerequisite. All tests must have been complete within the past 2 years. Test scores must be officially submitted to the San Diego Community College District.
The test
The math placement test is taken in the Assessment Office, K2-108, on the Miramar campus on a walk-in basis. Available dates and times can be found on the website linked above.
You must choose one of two test options - the Arithmetic or the Elementary Algebra test.
Choose the test that most closely matches the last mathematics course you took.
Both the Arithmetic and the Elementary Algebra tests are adaptive computer-based tests. That is, the questions that appear are based on your answers to previous questions. Tests are untimed, though you should allow at least two hours for assessment testing. Calculators, cell phones, notes, dictionaries, electronic devices, etc... will not be allowed inside the testing room. Scratch paper will be provided by your test proctor.
The following link will take you to the Accuplacer practice website, where you can access sample tests and get an idea of the test-taking experience: https://accuplacerpractice.collegeboard.org/login
You will need to create a free account. Once registered, choose the Classic Practice Tests option. Then select the Elementary Algebra or Arithmetic test.
The math placement test is taken in the Assessment Office, K2-108, on the Miramar campus on a walk-in basis. Available dates and times can be found on the website linked above.
You must choose one of two test options - the Arithmetic or the Elementary Algebra test.
- The Arithmetic test will help determine if you have the skills to be successful in the algebra courses.
- The Elementary Algebra test will help determine if you are ready for transfer level math courses.
Choose the test that most closely matches the last mathematics course you took.
Both the Arithmetic and the Elementary Algebra tests are adaptive computer-based tests. That is, the questions that appear are based on your answers to previous questions. Tests are untimed, though you should allow at least two hours for assessment testing. Calculators, cell phones, notes, dictionaries, electronic devices, etc... will not be allowed inside the testing room. Scratch paper will be provided by your test proctor.
The following link will take you to the Accuplacer practice website, where you can access sample tests and get an idea of the test-taking experience: https://accuplacerpractice.collegeboard.org/login
You will need to create a free account. Once registered, choose the Classic Practice Tests option. Then select the Elementary Algebra or Arithmetic test.
Before you take the test
- New students must complete the Online Orientation and bring the certificate of completion to the test. Access the Online Orientation here.
- Take a few days to prepare by following the instructions on the Preparation & Sample Tests page.
- Locate the Assessment Office, K2-108 on the campus map or visit the campus in person so that you know where to go on test day.
- Be sure to plan ahead for child care - no children or other guests are permitted in the testing area.
On the day of the test
- Be sure to get plenty of rest and eat properly prior to the test
- Try to arrive at the Assessment Office early so you can find the testing area, bathrooms, etc., and gather your thoughts before the test begins
- Bring a government-issued picture ID or Student ID, and your San Diego Community College Student Identification Number (CSID) with you to the test. Pictures of ID's or copies are not acceptable forms of identification
After the test
Upon completion of your test you will be given a copy of your placement scores. Your scores will be posted within one business day to your student records. You may also view your placement levels through Reg-e.
Counseling will interpret your results, and utilize them to help you develop a semester plan.
Upon completion of your test you will be given a copy of your placement scores. Your scores will be posted within one business day to your student records. You may also view your placement levels through Reg-e.
Counseling will interpret your results, and utilize them to help you develop a semester plan.