What is the purpose of the chemistry placement exam?
The chemistry placement exam identifies those students whose chemistry and mathematics knowledge is sufficient preparation for General Chemistry A (CHEM G180). Success in General Chemistry A (CHEM G180) is strongly linked with sufficient background knowledge of chemistry and mathematics. Our students deserve every chance of being successful when they enroll a course. The chemistry placement exam determines the chemistry course most suited to your level of preparation, the chemistry course most likely to lead to your success.
Is the chemistry placement exam required?
The chemistry placement exam is required for students who want to enroll General Chemistry A (CHEM G180) without completing the prerequisite course, Preparation for General Chemistry (CHEM G130).
The chemistry placement exam is not required for students wanting to enroll General Chemistry A (CHEM G180) who have:
successfully completed the prerequisite course, Preparation for General Chemistry (CHEM G130),
passed the AP Chemistry Exam with a score of 3 or greater,
passed the International Baccalaureate with a score of 5 or greater, or
previously attempted General Chemistry A (CHEM G180), or its equivalent at another school, and been unsuccessful.
What topics are covered by the chemistry placement exam?
The chemistry placement exam consists of questions based on high school level chemistry and mathematics. The majority of questions on the chemistry placement exam deal with topics taught in Preparation for General Chemistry (CHEM G130). Chemistry topics and skills tested by the chemistry placement exam include: atomic structure, chemical equations, stoichiometry, molecular geometry, solutions, elementary acid-base concepts, and gas laws. Mathematics topics and skills tested by the chemistry placement exam include: solving simple algebraic equations, use of proportions and percentages, and solving word problems.
Should I prepare for the chemistry placement exam? If so, how?
Yes, you should prepare for the chemistry placement exam. The best preparation for the chemistry placement exam is to review your chemistry and mathematics skills. The following links provide some review options:
Chemistry Practice Exam 1
Chemistry Practice Exam 2
How long does the chemistry placement exam take? Do I need to bring anything to the exam?
You have one hour to complete the chemistry placement exam. You need only bring a valid photo ID to chemistry placement exam. All other necessary items, such as a pencil, calculator, and scrap paper, will be provided for you.
How do I make an appointment to take the chemistry placement exam?
To make an appointment to take the chemistry placement exam.
Chemistry Placement Exam
Can I retake the chemistry placement exam if I don't score as high as I'd hoped to?
Yes, you may retake the chemistry placement exam, but only once. You must wait at least two weeks before retaking the chemistry placement exam, just enough time to better prepare for the exam and improve your score.
