MATH PLACEMENT EXAM

What is the purpose of the Math Placement Exam?

Success in math courses depends on starting in a class that best matches your ability and preparation. To help in this matching, we ask each student to take a math placement exam. The placement exam gives us a snapshot of your understanding of basic math concepts and your grasp of the math skills that you will need to take our courses. Remember, the goal of the exam is to increase your chances of success at Suffolk by placing you in a math course for which you have adequate preparation.

Who takes the Placement exam?

All first year students must take the Math Placement Exam (MPE). Transfer students are strongly encouraged to take the MPE. However, a transfer student who fulfills Suffolk’s math requirement (core requirements and any freshmen math requirements specific to his or her major) with transfer credit may be exempt from taking the MPE. If this is your situation, then you must bring to orientation the evaluation of your transfer credits that the admissions office sent you as evidence that you have fulfilled the math requirement.

How can I prepare for the Math Placement Exam?

While it is not necessary to review, some students like to refresh their memory before the exam. Below are some links to review sheets and solutions. These sheets contain sets of sample questions which will give you an idea of what is covered in the placement exam.

Click here for PDF version of review sheets (version #1)
Click here for PDF version of answer sheets (version #1)
Click here for PDF version of review sheets (version #2)
Click here for PDF version of answer sheets (version #2)

What else should I know about the exam?

You are on your honor when taking the test. You may use paper and pencil to work the problems and a calculator. You should not receive help from others, or use books or other resources such as web sites for help. Your success in a course is unlikely if you are placed above your current ability.

I have more questions. What can I do?

Please see our Placement FAQ's for more information.

Click here for Placement FAQ’s

If you have further questions, please call Jeanne Dodge at 617-973-5336 or send email to jdodge@suffolk.edu

How do I take the exam?

Good luck and best wishes from all of us.
Prof. Jeanne Dodge
Director, Math Support Programs