Math Placement

At UD, we know every learner is unique, and we want to help you succeed on your academic journey. Our math placement program, called ALEKS, uses adaptive technology to assess your current knowledge and skills, ensuring that you take the best math class for you.

The ALEKS assessment has 25 questions and generally takes 60-90 minutes to complete. Your ALEKS score is not a grade; it's just one factor that helps determine your math placement.

For more information about score interpretation, please reach out to your academic advisor or dean's office.

Quick Facts

25 questions

on the placement exam

75 minutes

average test time


Math Placement FAQ

Why do I have to take the ALEKS assessment?

ALEKS determines your math knowledge and helps your academic advisor place you in the correct math class. 

How long do I have to take the exam?

You have up to three hours to complete the exam. Most students complete the exam in 75 minutes.

What technology is needed to complete ALEKS?

ALEKS can be completed on most computers. There is an on screen calculator built into the test should students need it; other calculators are not permitted.

What if I need testing accommodations?

Email mathplacement@udayton.edu, and we will work with you to address accessibility needs.

Is the test proctored?

Your exams will be proctored by an online proctoring tool. It will record your screen to verify you do not have other materials present while taking the exam.

You will need to download and install the proctoring tool. Make sure you have installation rights on the computer you plan to use for the test.

What if I can't get ALEKS or the proctoring tool to work?

Both ALEKS and the proctoring tool work on most computers. We recommend that you use your personal machine or borrow a computer from a close friend or family member. That way, you have full access to install the software needed for the test.

If you need further assistance, email mathplacement@udayton.edu.

My computer turned off in the middle of the test and lost all my work!

Don’t panic! Email mathplacement@udayton.edu and let us know what happened. (Note: This email is only monitored from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday-Friday).

We recommend that you be proactive and start your exam before any deadlines. That way there's time to resolve any issues that might occur.