Mathematics Proficiency Examinations
The Department of Mathematics offers proficiency examinations in Math 220, 225, 231, 234, 241, 285, 286 and 415 to allow students to obtain college credit by demonstrating proficiency in the course material. A proficiency examination is comparable to a three-hour written final examination in that course, and a grade of B- or better is needed in order for course credit to be awarded. Proficiency examinations are not for placement or diagnostic purposes, but are only for awarding credit to students who demonstrate thorough knowledge of the course material.
These examinations demand more than an elementary acquaintance with the course material. The student must have solid command of the concepts and problem solving skills for the course and therefore should attempt a proficiency examination only after proper study and preparation.
Timing and Sign-Up for Proficiency Exams
Proficiency examinations are normally given from 9 a.m. to 12 noon on the first and sixth Saturdays of the Fall semester, the first week of Spring semester, and on one Saturday during the summer session. Students must register for an examination online at http://go.illinois.edu/mathproficiency. If a student signs up for an examination but does not appear and write it, that will count as an attempt (see "Number of Attempts" below). However, a student may cancel a sign-up without penalty up until 5:00 p.m. on the Friday before the examination date. To cancel your registration, go to http://go.illinois.edu/mathproficiencycancel/. If you have questions, come to 313 Altgeld Hall.
| Proficiency Exam Date | Signup Deadline |
|---|---|
| Saturday, June 15, 2013 at 9:00 am | Wednesday, June 12 at 5 pm |
| Wed., August 28, 2013 at 7:00 pm | Monday, August 26 at 5 pm |
Students may get a course syllabus from the Department of Mathematics syllabi webpage. Students may also check in the mathematics library (216 Altgeld Hall) for old exams to read to prepare for the exam.
For Math 220 only, a multiple choice exam on the material covered in Math 220 is given only to new entering students on the Thursday of New Student Welcome Week. For Fall 2013 Semester this exam will be given:
Thursday, August 22, 2013, 1:00-2:30 p.m. in 314 Altgeld Hall
No sign-up is necessary. Arrive early; the exam begins at 1:00 p.m. You must bring a valid photo ID and your UIN number. No calculators are allowed. For information about the material covered in Math 220, please see the syllabus for Math 220.
This is the only time a multiple choice exam is given. You may take an exam for Math 220 at other times, but it will be a 3-hour exam.
Number of Attempts
For the following courses only, at most two attempts are permitted per student:
220, 225, 231, 234, 241