Math Placement test

OK so here’s the issue, I just took my math placement test (Math 122 algebra) and I did monumentally terrible. like the equivalent of a 2%. afterwards the page online said I didn’t qualify for any math classes at USC and now I’m terrified, because I have to go to Orientation before I can take it again (I have to wait 7 days), and I’m not sure whats gonna happen. I really hope they’ll just let me take it again, but if not will I have to take some preliminary class at a different school?

Try calling (start with the Registrar’s office) before you leave for Orientation. The person (Academic Advisor, maybe?) who helps you register should be able to help, but this might get you some information beforehand.

Did you have a decent understanding of the material – meaning do you think you’d pass if you took it again? Or was it nerves, or the time limit, etc., that cause the problem?

Basic questions: Are you sure you took the correct test? If for some reason you took pre-cal one by mistake you may not have to wait a week to take other. Did you do the practice tests? If not, that’s a good place to start in preparing to take it again. There is a contact email address on placement page. Email and ask what the procedure is in your situation.

Definitely do the practice test and try to see what your problem is - you can take it two more times and if you can’t register for math right now you can still adjust your schedule up to beginning of classes. Depending on major you may not need to take math first semester.

I didn’t take the practice test, which was probably my biggest mistake. I know I took the Math 122 test, not the precalc r trig test, but i guess I just went in too confident, thinking I would just remember everything I learned in algebra 2. I wasn’t expecting to do good, but I didn’t realize failing completely would be so easy. either way, I know if I took it again and prepared this time I could pass with flying colors, I’m a better student than the score indicates.