The GW mathematics placement test

 

– Interpreting your  score –

 

Choosing the Appropriate GW Math Class

The mathematics placement test, which is administered by the George Washington University Department of Mathematics, is a tool to help you find the math course most appropriate for your level of preparation. Your score on the test provides you with advice on what courses to take (or not to take), but does not in any way guarantee success in those courses. This advice is outlined in the table below. For more information, please consult a math department advisor.

In some cases, AP (Advanced Placement) test scores or Math SAT II (the Math Achievement Test) sores may be substituted for the placement test (see the table for details). Please note that SAT I scores (i.e., the Math part of the Math &Verbal SAT) are not used for placement purposes.

The mathematics placement test is available online and may be taken at any time from any location where there is world wide web access. Please click here for instructions on how to take the test.

An overview of math requirements for various GW undergraduate programs follows the placement testing table.

 

 

Overview of Math Requirements:

• Columbian College of Arts and Sciences students are generally required to take two "Quantitative and Logical Reasoning" courses, selected from Mathematics, Statistics and Logic. Students who are  interested in science (physical, mathematical, biological or the quantitative social sciences) should  be on the Calculus track. Students whose potential majors do not require calculus might consider taking Mathematical Ideas I, II (Math 9 or 10), Mathematics and Politics (Math 7), or Dean's Seminars (Math 801) as an alternative.
• All School of Engineering and Applied Science students (including Computer Science majors) should also be on the Calculus track.
• School of Business and Public Management students should generally take Math 51 and 52 or be on the Calculus track.
• Elliott School Students are generally required to take two mathematics courses.
• Students in other programs should consult their Academic Advisor about their program's specific math requirements.

For more details on any of the above information, each student is encouraged to consult his/her advisor.

The Calculus track:

The standard calculus sequence consists of a three course sequence: Math 31 and Math 32 (Calculus I & II), and Math 33 (Multivariable Calculus). A student's major requirements will determine how far she/he needs to go in this sequence. Math 31 is the typical starting place for a student with a good precalculus background and for students who have taken some calculus but have not received AP credit.

For students who are not quite prepared for Math 31, the Math Department offers Math 20-21, a one year course sequence that combines precalculus with calculus. After completing Math 20 and 21 a student should be prepared to take Math 32 along with students who have taken Math 31.

Generally, students who have taken calculus in high school should take Math 31 rather than Math 20.  Math 20 is intended primarily for students who are not quite ready for Calculus.  It was specifically was designed for students who have never taken calculus. Students who qualify to take Math 31 should not take Math 20.

Notes:

• If you have AP credit from a 4 or 5 on the AB Advanced Placement Test (or 4 or 5 for the AB subscore for the BC Test), you cannot then take Math 31 for credit (your score already gives you that credit). Since Math 31 is above the level of Math 21 and Math 52, you also cannot take those courses for credit if you have AP credit.
• Math 52 is also a calculus course, but is not part of the standard calculus sequence required by many majors. It does not prepare students adequately to take Math 32.

For more details on any of the above information, each student is encouraged to consult his/her advisor.