At UNO, placement exams may need to be taken prior to registering for an English, math, or foreign language course. Placement exams help ensure that you enroll in the correct courses based on your academic skill level.
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How do I know what placement exams to take?
What if I'm a transfer student or a former UNO student?
How do I register for placement exams?
When is the best time to take placement exams?
How do I know what placement exams to take?
Each exam has a set of specific criteria. The most common placement exams students must take include English and mathematics.
The English Placement and Proficiency Exam (EPPE)
The EPPE is required for first-time freshmen and transfer undergraduate students as well as international students, including some applying for graduate studies. This exam helps ensure that you are placed in the appropriate English composition course. Some students are exempt from taking the EPPE when:
- Transferring in college composition credit is deemed as equivalent to those classes at UNO, or
- Presenting a 3, 4, or 5 on either Advanced Placement exams in English.
ACT/SAT Scores & English Placement
- A student who has scored a 20 or higher on both the ACT Reading and English tests is eligible to register for ENGL 1150 Composition l.
- A student who has scored a 540 or higher on the SAT English test is eligible to register for ENGL 1150 Composition l.
The Department of English has information about scores and more specific EPPE questions. Contact the Department of English at 402.554.3476.
Math Placement Exam (ALEKS)
Entrance into certain math courses is contingent on a student’s ACT or SAT Math Sub-Score. If you do not have an ACT or SAT score to determine your placement, you will need to register and take the ALEKS Math Placement Exam. The ALEKS Math Placement Exam is also recommended for those who think they could place in a higher-level math course.
View how ACT, SAT, and the ALEKS Math Placement Exam are used for placement in Math courses. Contact the Department of Math 402.554.2443 or 402.554.3430
Chemistry Placement Exam
Entrance into CHEM 1180 General Chemistry I also depends on a student’s ACT Math Sub-Score or their score on the ALEKS Math Placement Exam. Specific chemistry placement questions are best addressed in your first advising appointment.
View how ACT and the ALEKS Math Placement Exam are used for placement in Chemistry courses. Contact the Department of Chemistry 402.554.2651
Foreign Language Exams
All students with prior foreign language learning experience who wish to enroll in their first UNO foreign language course, including incoming and transfer students, should take the respective placement exam. Students with no prior foreign language experience need not take the placement exam. Native speakers of Spanish do not need to take the placement exam; they should connect with a Foreign Language Advisor to determine placement in their first UNO course.
View all languages offered and their corresponding placement exams. Contact the Department of Foreign Language and Literature at 402.554.4841.
What if I'm a transfer student or a former UNO student?
You may have already satisfied your testing requirements and should check with your academic advisor to identify your placement needs. UNO does not accept placement examinations from other institutions.
How do I register for placement exams?
Each exam requires registration through MavLINK. Here is a step-by-step guide if you need help.
When is the best time to take placement exams?
We highly encourage you to take placement exams at least two weeks before your enrollment day, so you have your test results when you meet your academic advisor. Plan your time accordingly, some placement exams can take up to two weeks for results to be posted.