<p>The UW placement exam is precalculus math, some students could need remedial courses to meet university graduation requirements or courses in algebra/geometry. The placement exam does not determine which calculus to take. All UW grads are required to meet certain math and English standards- hopefully most will retain what they were taught in HS before starting college and not need to take 0 credit courses, or can skip composition classes.</p>
<p>I think placement tests are helpful to be sure students are adequately prepared to handle their college level courses.</p>
<p>Using any information available seems logical to me. Looking at exams and textbooks along with discussing with an advisor. Son did the Honors math/calculus sequence so choosing where to jump into the regular sequence didn’t come up. Honors included linear algebra in the first 3 of 4 semesters so he didn’t “lose” a semester by starting with a beginning course. Some Honors program students may choose the regular sequence for its emphasis on problem solving instead of theory depending on the planned major and goals. Thank goodness for the summer advisors! btw- they advise, they don’t dictate. A student can change their mind later.</p>