The Math Placement is required for all enrolling students and does not impact your matriculation into the College. If you choose to take a math or science class at Bard, your score will help us determine the best fit courses for you.
The Math Placement consists of a short, two-part assessment with questions on material commonly covered in high school mathematics courses. You will be asked 40 questions in total, covering topics such as basic algebra, geometry, and trigonometry.
Your scores on Math Placement are for internal use only and will not appear on your transcript.
What is the purpose of the Math Placement?
The purpose of the Math Placement is to determine your mathematical level in terms of Bard’s mathematical course offerings. We want to make sure that you register for mathematical courses for which you will succeed, not fail. You are advised not to look up the answers or get help when taking this exam so that we get an honest assessment of where you are mathematically. This is for your benefit. The Math Placement is also used to determine if you have the prerequisites for introductory courses in science, computer science, and economics.
How much time does the Math Placement take?
There is no time limit, but the Math Placement
probably takes between one and two hours to complete.
What if I don't plan on taking math this semester?
You still need to take the Math Placement by the specified date. As you are likely aware, all students at Bard (regardless of their majors) must complete a set of distribution requirements, which includes at least one course in mathematics or computing and at least one course in laboratory science. Your scores on the Math Placement will help determine which mathematics/computing courses and which laboratory science courses you are mathematically qualified to take. We don’t want you taking courses for which you do not have the appropriate prerequisites. It is recommended that you fulfill your mathematics/computing requirement during your first few semesters at Bard, while your high school mathematics is still fresh.
What if I took an AP Calculus exam?
You still need to take the Math Placement. Both your AP score and your Math Placement score will be used to advise you on which math course to start with. For students with advanced mathematical backgrounds, a link to Parts 3 and 4 of the Math Placement will be provided in an email later in the summer.
If I am a transfer student, do I need to take the Math Placement?
Yes, every entering student must take the Math Placement. If you have a good understanding of college level algebra, then you will find the questions on the Math Placement to be routine, and will be minimally inconvenienced by this requirement.