General Questions

What is ALEKS PPL?

ALEXS PPL is an instrument used to measure readiness for specific mathematics and statistics courses at Sac State. Additional information about ALEKS PPL and how it prepares students for success may be found online: McGraw Hill ALEKS PPL page.

Do all first-year students need to take ALEKS PPL?

No. However, ALEKS PPL is recommended for students whose major program requires mathematics or statistics courses. This includes most students in the sciences, engineering, liberal studies, the health sciences, and business, as well as some students in child development and the social sciences. Students in the arts and humanities do not need ALEKS PPL.

See the ALEKS PPL Guidelines website for more information on course placement and courses for which ALEKS PPL is recommended.

Why does Sac State ask students to take ALEKS PPL?

ALEKS PPL is a tool that helps the university evaluate the mathematical content readiness of students in disciplines that require mathematics or statistics coursework. It also helps students know that they are ready for the first-year mathematics or statistics course in which they are placed. Most importantly, based on a student’s performance, ALEKS PPL recommends “Preparation and Learning Modules” that will help the student review areas where improvement is needed.

When and where can a student take ALEKS PPL?

Part I of the ALEKS PPL process can be completed from any computer or tablet with an internet connection. Students who have submitted their Intent to Enroll should begin with ALEKS PPL now, so that they have time to work with the recommended Preparation and Learning Module.

If a student wishes to use an ALEKS PPL score to place into a mathematics or statistics course higher than the one in which they were originally placed, then they will need to complete Part II of the ALEKS PPL process. Completion of Part II requires taking a proctored ALEKS PPL assessment on the Sac State campus.

For more information on the two parts of the ALEKS PPL process visit the ALEKS Registration and Access website.

How do I choose a Preparation and Learning Module?

After completing the initial ALEKS PPL practice assessment, the system will suggest a Preparation and Learning Module based on the performance. A module other than the one suggested may be chosen. Only one module may be chosen, and the choice cannot be changed once a module has been started. Preparation and Learning Modules suggested for specific courses are below.

General Questions

How is ALEKS PPL used for placement in first-year mathematics and statistics courses?

First-year students whose majors require mathematics or statistics coursework will be placed in their first college mathematics or statistics course based on the completed high school coursework that they reported in their CSU application. The ALEKS PPL score will help the department and the student confirm that this placement matches the student’s math readiness. See the ALEKS PPL website for a breakdown of ALEKS scores that correlate with preparedness for successful completion of first year courses.

If a student believes they are prepared for a course higher than the one in which they are placed, then they have the option to take a proctored ALEKS PPL assessment. If the student receives the appropriate score, then they would be eligible to enroll in the higher course.

What if a student’s ALEKS PPL scores are lower than the appropriate score for the course in which they were placed?

In this case, the student will be placed in the first-year mathematics or statistics course based on their high school coursework not the ALEKS PPL score. However, if a student would like to take the course recommended by the lower ALEKS score, they are welcome to do so, but it is recommended that the student speak with a major advisor before making this decision.

What advice should we give to students whose ALEKS PPL scores are lower than the appropriate score for the course in which they were placed?

After completing the initial ALEKS PPL assessment, an individualized Preparation and Learning Module is available to students to refresh their knowledge. The more time a student spends in each learning module, the better prepared they will be for their assigned course. Therefore students are recommended to work through the module until they feel comfortable with the material.

May I use a calculator while taking a placement assessment?

ALEKS PPL will provide an on-screen calculator on questions requiring a calculator. An external calculator is not allowed.

How long will a placement assessment take to complete?

A maximum of 2 hours is given to complete an ALEKS PPL. The precise amount of time will vary by student.

How is ALEKS PPL proctored?

The first ALEKS PPL assessment is considered a practice attempt and is not proctored. All other ALEKS PPL assessments are proctored. Proctored assessments will be given in Brighton Hall 205 on the Sac State campus. Students wishing to take a proctored ALEKS PPL assessment must schedule an appointment to do so. Please see Part II of the ALEKS Registration and Access website for more information on scheduling a proctored assessment.