Integral Domain Mathematics at Mercyhurst University
Mercyhurst University
Department of Mathematics

ALEKS Math Assessment: Get Ready


First of all, RELAX

This is an assessment, NOT A TEST. At the end of the ALEKS Placement Assessment, you will have a much better sense of your strengths and weaknesses in mathematics. You will then have a chance to work on those weaknesses. There is really no penalty for incorrectly answering a question on the assessment. The most important thing is that you take the assessment seriously and give it an honest effort so that the assessment truly reflects your level of knowledge and math preparedness.

Academic integrity

The only purpose of the assessment is to give an accurate measure of your current mathematical skills so that you will have a better opportunity to be successful in your courses. There is no benefit to inflating or deflating your abilities on the assessment. Taking a class that is not appropriate for your current level of mathematical knowledge could delay your graduation. Therefore, while you are taking the assessment, do not consult any other source for help (friends, family, internet searches, textbooks, etc.), and do your honest best.

In addition, as a member of the Mercyhurst community, you are expected to uphold the Mercyhurst University principles as outlined in our Mission Statement, which include doing honest academic work.

What you need

  • Your Mercyhurst user id (e.g. 000#####) and password
  • A pencil and paper
  • A reliable internet connection
  • 2-3 hours of time
  • A space conducive to doing your best work

All other resources are provided by ALEKS

You should NOT use your own calculator. If one is needed to answer a question, ALEKS will provide one automatically for that question.

You should NOT use other resources such as textbooks, websites, or friends. Use of non-permitted resources may result in you being required to take a course for which you are not prepared.

What to expect

This is a free response assessment; there are no multiple choice questions. Before you take the assessment, ALEKS will present a short tutorial on how to enter answers, how to use the graphing utilities, and how to use the built in calculator that will be offered when appropriate.
TAKE YOUR TIME WITH THIS TUTORIAL AND BE SURE YOU UNDERSTAND HOW THESE FEATURES WORK.