Placement Assessment
Placement assessment at UNM-Taos evaluates your abilities in math and English, so you can begin your studies in the appropriate courses and succeed academically from the start.
Placement assessments help:
- Ensure a smooth transition into college-level coursework
- Identify areas where you may need additional support or resources
- Maximize your chances of academic success
Placement assessments are completed by appointment, in person at the Testing Center on Klauer Campus. If you have any questions about the placement process, please reach out to us!
Test Offerings
Math Placement Assessment
The ALEKS PPL Math Placement Assessment includes two parts, and is accessible using your UNM email address.
The first part requires you to complete a math test on a computer at the Testing Center. You will have 2.5 hours to complete it.
The second part is optional, if you wish to retake the test. Retakes require you to spend at least 3 hours in Preparation and Learning Modules, and to take a practice test at home.
When you feel prepared to retake the test, book your Math Placement Assessment.
Your placement results will be scored 0–100. Your score will determine which courses you’ll need.
English Placement Assessment
The English Placement Assessment is a paper-based test that asks you to demonstrate your familiarity with both Reading and Writing. You will read and analyze a short article by answering several questions and then respond to an open-ended writing prompt of your choosing.
English Placement Assessments are untimed, so you may work at a pace that’s comfortable to you.
Preparation Resources
Math
• Khan Academy | Free online resources covering a wide range of math topics
• Math is Fun |
English
• Purdue OWL | Comprehensive writing resources and guides
Workshops and Tutoring
• UNM-Taos students can schedule sessions with Academic Tutoring for personalized assistance in math and English.
FAQs
Do I have to take a placement test?
How long do placement tests take?
You will have 2.5 hours to complete your math placement assessment. English placement assessments are untimed, so you may work at a pace that is comfortable for you. On average, math and English tests take about 1–3 hours each.
Can I retake a placement test?
English retakes are allowed only under certain conditions. Consult with the Testing Center for retake policies and procedures. Students are encouraged to retake their math placement assessment after completing the mandatory ALEKS PPL Preparation and Learning Modules. This review has been shown to dramatically improve scores.
What should I bring to the testing center?
How soon will I receive my test results?
Math placement results are available immediately upon completion of the assessment. English placement results are typically available in 1–5 days, depending on the day of the week. Your academic advisor will review the results with you to determine your course placements.
Contact Us
Testing Center
575.737.3716
taostestingcenter@unm.edu