ALEKS FAQS
Where can I sign in to take ALEKS Math Assessment?
You can sign in to ALEKS using your KU Online ID.
Am I required to take the ALEKS PPL Assessment?
KU students are required to have some form of math placement score. You can choose to take the ALEKS PPL if you wish to place in a higher-level mathematics course than your ACT/SAT score places you.
Can I change to a different Prep and Learning Module later?
No, you may only use one Prep and Learning Module.
Does progress in an ALEKS Prep and Learning Module count toward placement?
No, you must complete a new Placement Assessment to change your placement result. Select the placement tab in the upper right corner of the ALEKS PPL page to start a new Placement Assessment.
How long is my placement result valid?
Your placement result is valid for up to 12 months.
I did not place into the class I wanted. Can I take it anyway?
No, you must achieve the minimum placement result to take each corresponding class.
What if I placed into the class I wanted?
Congratulations! Continue to use your Prep and Learning Module to improve your chances for success. The placement result required is the minimum preparation for your course. Take advantage of the individualized review and learning features in ALEKS PPL to get a better grade in your class.
What if I do not place into the course I wanted?
This is a perfect opportunity to take advantage of the Prep and Learning Modules offered within ALEKS PPL. An individualized study plan will be created based on your performance on the Initial Placement Assessment. ALEKS will identify what you know and what you are ready to learn next so you can brush up on lost knowledge.
Why is there a waiting period between Placement Assessments and the requirement for the ALEKS Prep and Learning Module?
There is generally no benefit to re-taking the Placement Assessment immediately after completing a prior attempt. You cannot improve your results by simply re-taking the Placement Assessment without reviewing material that you may have forgotten.
What do I do if my web browser gets stuck or my computer crashes while I'm taking the Placement Assessment?
Simply close the browser, or log out and log back in. ALEKS will resume the Placement Assessment exactly where you left off, with no loss of your previous answers.
Where can I get help with ALEKS?
I am taking College Algebra (or a higher-level math course) for dual credit right now. Should I take the ALEKS placement exam?
If you are successfully passing your dual credit course with a C or higher, you do not need to take the ALEKS placement exam, but can take it if you feel it would be beneficial.
I am earning AP/IB credit for College Algebra but will not take my exam for credit until May. Should I take the ALEKS placement exam now just in case?
That decision is up to you. KU provides two free ALEKS exams to all KU students to assure proper math placement. You can wait until you get your results for the AP/IB exam then decide to take the ALEKS placement if needed.
I am a current student at KU who waited to take math. What should I do?
It is best to visit with your academic advisor to review your student record and prior math placement scores on file to determine if the ALEKS test is best for your situation. To schedule with your advisor, visit Jayhawk GPS Home or your Navigate App to schedule.
I am not certain what math is required for my degree and if I even need to take the ALEKS assessment?
If you are uncertain about your degree requirements, check with your academic advisor or the University Catalog for your degree program.
I am a transfer student/I earned my math credits at a prior institution years ago, should I take the ALEKS assessment?
It is strongly encouraged for students to take the ALEKS assessment to gain an accurate and recent assessment of your math skills for optimal placement and success if you will need to take entry-level Math courses at KU. Talk to advisor for more information/
What if I test higher on the ALEKS than the MATH course required for my degree?
A higher Math Placement Test score may qualify you to take a more advanced math course than you would using your existing prerequisites, however you are free to take any MATH course you qualify for that meets your academic needs. Visit with your academic advisor on the best course selections.