Placement Tests

Math Placement Testing – ALEKS

All students entering UMaine must be placed in the correct math classes. If you have a 670 on the math portion of the SAT, or a 29 on the math portion of the ACT, then you can be enrolled in any math class up to MAT 126 (Calculus I); all other students must take the ALEKS PPL Assessment, our mathematics placement exam.

ALEKS consists of three parts:

  • An Initial Placement Assessment
  • The Prep and Learning Module, an individualized, self-paced online review
  • Access to up to four additional Placement Assessments

The University of Maine encourages each student to spend time in the Prep and Learning Module, even if the desired score is achieved, because time spent in ALEKS will ultimately lead to better preparation and improved grades.

Frequently asked questions about the math placement exam

To take the exam, wait 24 hours after activating your UMS account and then:


ENG 101: English Composition

Most incoming first-year students enroll in ENG 101 during either their fall or their spring semester. Some students fulfill the requirements of the course with a score of 3 or higher on the AP English test, or by completing HONORS 111 and 112 with a grade of C or higher.

Because academic reading and writing are crucial to success in college, the University of Maine and the Department of English offer a two-semester, “Stretch”, version of ENG 101 for students wanting to build strong foundations for future intellectual work. Additional information on the “Stretch” version of ENG 101 can be found here.


Modern Languages: French and Spanish Placement Exam

Knowledge of a second or third language enriches one’s life and makes for a more competitive resume on the job market. All students are encouraged to pursue the study of French, Spanish, or one of the other languages offered in the Department of Modern Languages and Classics.

To resume study of French and Spanish, students must take the placement exam. The test is administered online and can be taken at any time the UMaine Placement Exam site.

Use password blackbears1.

Upon completion of the test, students will automatically receive their score and a recommended placement level. Academic Services personnel in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences will consult with the Department of Modern Languages and Classics and place you in a course at the appropriate level.

For more information, please contact the Department of Modern Languages and Classics.


Music Ensembles

Thousands of students, including music majors and talented students from other disciplines, have participated in the School of Performing Arts’ various music ensembles. All students are invited to participate in these music ensembles.

If you wish to join, or for more information, please contact the School of Performing Arts.