Credit by Exam for MTH 150: College Algebra

NOTE: EXAM RESULTS WILL BE EMAILED EARLY NEXT WEEK (9/21)

What Is It?

Given each Fall, at the beginning of the Semester, this exam is available only to incoming freshmen. It is an opportunity to show proficiency for MTH 150: College Algebra, and receive 4 Math General Education credits.

If you received AP credit for Calculus, you are still eligible to take this exam and receive 4 additional credits. This is not a placement exam. Placement test scores are used for advisory purposes when placing you into a math course, and do not give you college credit.

As a first semester freshmen, this is your only opportunity to receive credit for a math class by exam. Even if you are not currently in a math class, you should consider taking this exam now. It is not offered in the second semester.
We highly recommend you do some kind of review and preparation for this exam. In our experience we have found many entering freshmen are out of practice with their algebra skills.
How Do You Prepare?
There are three ways you can learn more about the specific content of the exam.
1. Register for our online review course to access a set of online materials.
  The materials include over 100 problems and answers that are designed to help you review for the exam. In addition, video podcasts are available for some of the more difficult problems. These podcasts explain the step-by-step solution processes. These materials are contained in our course management system and you can begin accessing the materials soon after you register for the course. There is a $5.00 fee to access these materials. Go to Credit by Exam Review to gain access or to learn more.
2. Obtain paper review sheets.
  Paper review sheets are available in the Math department office (1020 Cowley Hall) once classes begin. There is a $3.00 cost per set.
3. Attend a review session.
  A UW-L mathematics department faculty member leads the session. There is no cost for attending.
When are the Review Sessions?
There are two review sessions scheduled on Thursday September 10, 6:30-8:30pm
102 CWH (Carl Wimberly Hall)
122 CWH (Carl Wimberly Hall)
When Is The Exam and How Much Does It Cost?
There is a $20.00 fee for each exam taken. To Register:
Sign Up and pay for the exam online. You will receive an email confirming your registration. You need to print out this email and bring it to the exam as your receipt.
If you are unable to sign up online, you can pay for the exam in the Cashier's Office, 121 Graff Main Hall.
Students must bring their ID,receipt, and pencil to the exam.
The exam is scheduled for Tuesday September 15, 6:00-8:00pm
Last Name Starts with A-M: 102 CWH (Carl Wimberly Hall)
Last Name Starts with N-Z: 122 CWH (Carl Wimberly Hall)
Note: No score is recorded on your record.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I take this exam if I received AP credits for Calculus?
  Yes. You are eligible to take this exam and receive an additional 4 general education math credits.
2. What is the advantage of taking this exam?
  You can receive 4 general education math credits for a cost of $20.00 and satisfy your math general education requirement.
  If you received AP credits or are going to take a calculus class this year, it can be a big advantage credit-wise:
  - You receive 5 AP credits for Calculus I. If you pass that 150 Credit by Exam, you receive an additional 4 math credits.
  - If you take a calculus course this year, and receive a B or better, you will receive 4 retroactive credits for MTH 151 - Precalculus. Therefore, it is possible to earn 13 math credits in one semester.
3. What does the placement test have to do with this exam?
  The placement test is an exam given to determine your proper placement into a math course at UW-La Crosse. It is not connected with the Credit by Exam. You do not receive college credit for the placement test.
4. Should I take this exam if I am currently in MTH 150?
  You are eligible to take this proficiency exam, however, keep in mind that the exam is comprehensive and is comparable to a final exam for the course. If your placement test scores indicate you should begin at the 150 level, this test could be difficult to pass.
5. Can I take this exam if I am in MTH 050 or MTH 051?
  You are eligible to take this proficiency exam. However, it is not advisable. Your placement scores have indicated that you do not have the skills to begin at the College Algebra level, and therefore, the likelihood of passing a comprehensive exam for MTH 150 is low.
6. What if I am currently in MTH 150 and pass this exam?
  If you are currently in MTH 150, and pass the MTH 150 Credit by Exam, you would drop MTH 150 from your schedule. However, please note that if this drops you below 12 credits, it would affect your status as a full-time student. You would have to pick up additional credits to place you at full-time status.
7. What if I am currently in MTH 145 and this satisfies my general education credits?
  If you are currently in MTH 145, you should stay in this course. It is still beneficial to receive 4 more credits for MTH 150 if your algebra skills are good.
8. What is a passing score and will the results be recorded anywhere?
  Passing score is 70%, and no scores are recorded on your record anywhere. If you pass the exam the only thing recorded is 4 credits for MTH 150.
9. Can you use calculators on this exam?
  Yes, Scientific Calculators are allowed, but NO graphing calculators.
10. What if I have a class conflict at the time of the exam?
  Contact Dr. David Koster, 1001 Cowley Hall, 785-8668.
11. What if I have a question not found in this FAQ?

Credit by Exam for MTH 150: College Algebra

What Is It?

How Do You Prepare?

When are the Review Sessions?

When Is The Exam and How Much Does It Cost?

Frequently Asked Questions