Take the ALEKS Math Placement Test
Use your USC username and password to log in. Always use this link to access ALEKS.
Testing Options
Online
You may complete the ALEKS PPL assessment online using Respondus Monitor at any time, day or night. Be sure to take it at least seven (7) days before your advising appointment. The assessment usually takes 60-90 minutes but allows you up to 2.5 hours. You can take it from home while being securely proctored through your computer’s webcam and microphone. When you're ready, log-in to ALEKS at the link above. Only use this link to access the Math Placement test.
The online proctoring option requires...
- A reliable internet connection and a webcam.
- A computer that allows you to download Respondus software. Instructions for using Respondus Monitor are included in ALEKS.
- A quiet, private testing environment, without family or friends present.
On Campus
Admitted students can take the ALEKS PPL Math Placement assessment in person at the libraries on either the Allendale or Walterboro campuses.
- Testings is available Monday - Thursday from 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. Tests may be completed on Friday by appointment only.
- A computer will be provided for you.
- Available on a scheduled basis.
- Space may be limited—early planning is encouraged.
- Provides an on‑campus testing environment with staff support.
FAQs
ALEKS PPL (Assessment and Learning in Knowledge Spaces: Placement, Preparation and Learning) is an AI‑powered math assessment and learning system that accurately measures a student’s current knowledge, identifies specific strengths and gaps, and delivers personalized learning modules to help students prepare for course placement.
The ALEKS Math Placement Test consists of 25 open-ended questions and typically takes 60–90 minutes to complete. Students will have a total of 2.5 hours for each assessment attempt. Following the placement assessment, students gain access to an individualized Prep and Learning Module designed to help refresh previously learned material and strengthen weaker areas.
Students may take ALEKS up to five times within one year, allowing them to improve their placement by demonstrating increased mastery after completing additional practice and learning.
ALEKS helps make sure you start college math or other STEM coursework in the right place. ALEKS measures what you know right now.
- Accurate placement – ALEKS PPL identifies your current math skills so you’re placed in a course that matches your readiness.
- Personalized learning – If there are topics you’ve forgotten or haven’t practiced recently, ALEKS PPL provides targeted review to help you improve.
- Better chance for success – Starting in the right math or other STEM course reduces frustration and boosts confidence.
- Opportunities to improve – After reviewing material, you can reassess and potentially place into a higher‑level course.
USC Salkehatchie uses ALEKS to support student success by combining placement, learning, and reassessment into one flexible system.
All new students should complete the ALEKS Math Placement Test, even if they have AP, IB, or transfer credit. While incoming credits may count toward your degree, the placement test helps make sure you are ready for your next math or STEM class.
Math skills can fade over time, and different schools may teach topics in different ways. The placement test gives you and your advisor an up-to-date picture of your current math knowledge. This helps you enroll in a class that fits your skill level and sets you up for success.
Think of the math placement test not as repeating work you have already done, but as making sure you are prepared to move forward into more advanced courses.
After completing the placement assessment, you’ll review your results with your academic advisor during your pre-orientation advising appointment, who will help you choose the math or other STEM course that fits your academic goals and placement score.
The ALEKS placement assessment shows what math skills you already know and what you may need to review. When you finish, you'll understand your strengths and areas to improve. ALEKS then gives you personalized practice to help you review topics you haven’t used in a while and strengthen your skills before classes start.